Folk Fiddle: Short Course Spring 2012

Information

Week 1 of a four week course.

Are you a folk fiddler wanting to branch out and learn a new style? Ever felt as a classical violinist that you are tied the dots? Or just wanted to be able to play without worrying about perfection? Playing from ear can be very enriching and liberating for all musicians. If you want try and experience learning and playing in a different way, Emma Sweeney and Thea Spiers are forming a team as teachers from two very different backgrounds (classical and folk) to try and bring folk fiddle playing to a new bunch of people or build confidence to people who have done some before.

In each of the four classes the pair will examine trad music from Ireland and Scotland (with Graham MacKenzie), as well as Old-time and Bluegrass music from America. The lessons will have a heavy emphasis on learning by tunes by ear, and how to develop this, and using recordings already out there as a teaching tool to help students develop a feel for the music. They will teach bowing and ornamentation as part of the learning process, and tricks to get the 'feel' for the music.

 It recommended that participants bring a recording device such as a phone or mp3 recorder to the lessons if they have one, if not they will have tunes e-mailed to them as a reminder. In each lesson Emma and Thea will teach a tune by ear, then split into 2 smaller groups to concentrate on finer details such as bowing and ornamentation and give people a chance to play on their own or in smaller groups. Then all participants come back together as one group and all play together.

Venue: Education Room 1 at Band on the Wall

Day: Wednesday

Times: 7.30-9.30pm

Dates: Feb 15th, 22nd, March 14th, 21st

Cost: Full £40, Conc £32 (Full time student, OAP, unwaged), Per Session, £12

(Concession places are subject to production of proof of eligibility at first session)