Klezmer Kapelye
–
About Klezmer Kapelye
Immerse yourself in the celebratory and soulful wedding music of Jewish Eastern Europe. Course tutors will introduce you to the elements that make this genre unique via a selection of fantastic repertoire provided as sheet music. There will also be opportunities to try out improvisation and playing by ear.
What is the course about?
A course designed for instrumentalists (including keyboard players) from all musical backgrounds - classical, folk, world or jazz. Applicants must be of at least roughly Grade 4 level (no formal qualifications needed), and an ability to read music is essential as the course will be taught mainly using written music. The coaching is all about interactive learning, concentrating on repertoire and attention to melody, accompaniment and ornamentation. Where appropriate dance elements are also introduced to the course. Oral and aural learning methods will help those unfamiliar with it acquaint themselves to the style more quickly – though we hope for many return visitors! Putting music into its historical context is an important part of the course, as is the telling of stories of musicians past and present.
What will you learn?
We will cover:
- Klezmer modes.
- Different types of tunes and dances.
- The sound of traditional klezmer.
By the end of this course, you will be able to:
- Recognise a common klezmer mode
- Understand how rhythm and tempo work in klezmer dances/music
- Play some traditional ornamentation
- Recognise the tempo and rhythmic differences between the most common klezmer dance genres
How will the course be taught?
The course will be taught in groups of various sizes, including instrumental sections and large and small ensembles.
Who is the course for?
Improver, Confident, Skilful.
Applicants must be at least Grade 4 or equivalent and able to read music.
Will music be provided and do you need to prepare or bring anything?
Tunes for the course and a modes sheet will be provided in advance as downloadable pdfs. Students should print out music to bring.
No preparation is required.
Participants should bring a recording device and a pencil.
It's a great way of expanding your musical experience and freeing your playing.
Great diversity of tutors and their musical skills – major individual talents.
It's an immersive but utterly unintimidating experience which gives you the chance to get up close with fantastic musicians living and thriving in one of the world’s most special folk traditions.