Frequently Asked Questions
What level of musical training do I need?
The workshops are designed for people with at least an intermediate working knowledge of notation and musicianship
The classes begin with a solid review of ALL aspects of rhythmic notation - it is vital that everyone starts work from the same place
This review might be quite challeging for those with less experience and skill and a handy reminder for the more advanced
I have taught all levels of student from non-musician to advanced professional and cater to a range of skill levels in the one room
I am a professional working musician - is there any benefit for me in the workshops?
Yes - the review at the start of the series is particularly valuable to all players. As the weeks progress the challenges increase
I also write material each week that is tailored to the range of skills in the group
Last year you supplied a range of junk and found instruments - this year you are asking us to bring our own instruments...why?
The idea of supplying instruments was to liberate players from their usual habits and be free to focus on the reading tasks of the group
As it turned out, the 'new' instruments sometimes had the reverse effect - so this year I am asking you to bring your instrument so that you are comfortable with the techniques needed and can get on with the reading and playing
What will I be playing?
As in the example above, materials are organized in REGISTERS (usually high, medium and low). You choose one of the lines, and play any note on your instrument, following the conductor and counting to play the notes accurately. The above example is from the first 'review' session
Can I still play percussion?
Yes, I will still be supplying a range of percussion instruments that we will use to play through some of the exercises
Is there any improvising?
Not really - only in terms of choosing which note you might play for any given exercise. Everything is fully notated and read
any other questions...
Please email me