Next Beginners' Day (one-day course): 14th September 2008

There are a number of options for beginners.

Weekend workshops

We have had several students new to conducting or with very little experience taking part in the weekend workshops. They can easily be accommodated, as Michael is very skilled at working with the student at their own level. We always programme at least one fairly 'easy' work which a beginner can handle. If you are a beginner who would like to attend a weekend course, you are welcome to contact us to discuss your needs. You can also attend as an observer, at a lower fee, meaning you do not take active part (except perhaps to play in the ensemble), though you may have the chance to 'have a go' in the final session.

Beginners' one-day courses

So far we have run only one one-day course (see below). However we would like to plan more. The day usually concentrates on some very simple music (we used Mozart's Eine Kleine Nachtmusik) so that students can focus on beating patterns, clarity and confidence. Stopping, starting, pauses, basic expressiveness and other elements can be brought in as appropriate.

The next suggested date for a Beginners' Course is 14th September 2008. If you would like to express your interest in taking part in such a course, and even give us an idea of when you would like it to take place, please contact us and let us know. If you wish to make a booking to attend please press the "Book a Place" button Below.

Individual Tuition

Quite a number of our students have started by having one or two individual sessions with Michael, often in advance of a weekend workshop or a study day. These session can of course be tailored exactly to your needs and can last for anything from an hour upwards. For booking and discussing cost, please contact us by phone or e-mail.

"Thank you all for your encouragement, help, advice and cake. You have restored my confidence in my ability."

- participant comment

The youngest ever student on a Weekend Course was only 10 years old. He came as an observer, but 'had a go' with the Voluntary Orchestra on the Sunday.

Fees

There are normally no observer places on a beginners' day, but attenders can indicate the level at which they wish to participate.

One-day Beginners' Course 1

Sunday, 30th March 2008 at 2 Near Town, Olney, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

With piano accompaniment.

This course was run very successfuly with a small group.

"A wonderfully relaxed yet inspiring learning environment which enabled the acquisition of some essential basic skills" (participant comment).

If you are interested in future Beginners' Courses, please contact us.