Week 2 of a four week course. THIS WEEK: BLUEGRASS!
Are you a folk fiddler wanting to branch out and learn a new style? Have you ever felt as a classical violinist that you are ‘tied the dots’ and just wanted to be able to play without worrying about how ‘perfectly’ you sound? Playing from ear can be very enriching and liberating for all musicians. If you want branch out, experience learning and playing in a different ways then Emma Sweeney and Thea Spiers have formed a team as teachers from two very different backgrounds (classical and folk) to try and bring folk fiddle playing styles to a new group of people and build confidence to those who have played some traditional styles before.
In each of the three remaining classes the group will examine traditional music from Ireland, Scotland (with Graham MacKenzie), and, Old-time and, this week, Bluegrass music from America. The sessions will place a heavy emphasis on learning by tunes by ear, developing aural learning techniques, and using recordings of traditional fiddle masters as a learning tool to help students develop stylistic interpretation. Tutors will teach traditional bowing, ornamentation and give useful tips and tricks on how to get an authentic ‘feel’ to the different musical styles.
It is 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 an aide-memoir. In each lesson Emma and Thea will teach a tune by ear and split into 2 smaller groups to focus on fine details giving everyone a chance to play on their own, in pairs or as a whole. Sessions finish a whole group performance.
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 £30, Conc £22 (Full time student, OAP, unwaged), Per-session, £12
(Concessionary places are subject to production of proof of eligibility at first session)