As flourished around 1900-1960 (often surrounded by potted palms), strings, woodwind soloists and (if balance allows) a few brass players and a pianist play a wide range of accessible music – light, popular and classical.
STANDARD: CONFIDENT, SKILFUL.
Resident: £359 Non-Resident: £260 (25% off for under 27s) Code: 23/255.
Booking for Members opens at 11am on Monday 27 February 2023.
Non-Member and online booking opens at 11am on Monday 27 March 2023.
For details on how to become a Member to take advantage of early booking, see here.
What is the course about?
Pretty pieces, sentimental pieces, inspiring pieces, quirky novelties, dramatic juxtapositions. String players, woodwind soloists and (if balance allows) a few brass players and a pianist will enjoy the wide range of accessible music - light, popular and classical - which makes up a typical Palm Court programme. Our rehearsals, in chamber music style without conductor - and led, in time-honoured fashion, by a violin virtuoso - will be concentrated and demanding but also great fun. Typical features of the style such as phrasing, rhythmic freedom and expressiveness will be emphasised. Violinists may be asked to alternate between First and Second. A rare opportunity to re-create a grand era and style of music easy on the ear and satisfying to the players.
What will we cover?
Ensemble balance, phrasing, rhythmic freedom and expressiveness. For string players, effective pizzicato, general technique. Musical comedy development and changes in orchestration methods. Social history of players and audience.
What will we accomplish? By the end of this course you will be able to…
Join in re-creating a particular style and era of music
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
Standard: Confident, Skilful. Good sight-reading and listening skills required. Also a sense of humour.
How will the course be taught, and will any preparation be required?
All sessions are held with the whole group, mostly playing repertoire and rehearsing some passages. Tutors welcome discussion and Q&A.
Will music be provided in advance of the course?
No, it will be provided by the tutor on the course.
Is there anything I need to bring?
Soft pencil and rubber
What previous participants said about this course…
“Good variety and Roger Moon adds interesting depth with information about the composers.”
“This course was pure joy. Seeing old friends again, making new friends, and playing lovely music together with such great tutors - nothing more to ask.”
“The coaching from Roger and Miriam was excellent, with a pleasant and relaxing atmosphere.”