This course features playing in bass clarinet and bassoon ensembles and a massed choir, featuring original compositions and transcriptions. Also separate sessions for bass clarinet, contrabass clarinet and bassoon which cover general areas of technique.
ABILITY: IMPROVER, CONFIDENT, SKILFUL
Resident: £402 Non-Resident: £292 (25% off for under 27s) Code:26/225
Members priority booking opens at 9am on Tuesday 17 June.
General booking opens at 9am on Friday 11 July.
For details on how to become a Member to take advantage of early booking, see here.
This course runs from 5.30pm on Friday 8 May to 4pm on Sunday 10 May 2026.
What is the course about?
This course is for bass/contrabass clarinet and bassoon/contrabassoon players who want to experience playing in low reed ensembles whilst developing their technique and confidence plus having a fun time in a lovely setting.
The repertoire will be musically varied and enjoyably challenging.
It will include at least one original work for low reed choir and other idiomatic arrangements suitable for low reed instruments.
The course will also cover aspects of technique and sound production and is aimed at giving participants the opportunity to get advice and ask questions from specialist in low reed instruments.
There will be an element of performance in the course – a Tutor Concert on the second evening and a final course session where all participants will play.
What will we cover?
Experiencing a wide range of music via a whole group ensemble plus separate clarinet and bassoon choirs.
Separate break-out sessions for the different instruments covering aspects of sound and technique.
What will we accomplish? By the end of this course you will be able to…
You will have developed your ensemble skills through playing in the choirs whilst picking up specialist tips on low reed technique.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
Improver/Confident/Advanced
Some experience of ensemble playing is also needed.
How will the course be taught, and will any preparation be required?
Music will be sent out approximately one week in advance and participants will need to print it out or bring it on an i-pad/tablet.
The course will be taught through the tutors directing ensembles of varying sizes with at least one break-out session.
Will music be provided in advance of the course?
Yes.
Is there anything I need to bring?
Instrument plus reeds and anything else required to keep your instrument in good working order.
A pencil. A folder to keep your music safe and well organised if using paper copies.