A rare opportunity to enjoy, and experience from the player’s point of view, the sound and style of strict tempo Ballroom and Latin music from the 1930s to 1950s.
ABILITY: CONFIDENT, SKILFUL
Resident: £402 Non-Resident: £292 (25% off for under 27s) Code: 26/238
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 12 June to 4pm on Sunday 14 June 2026.
What is the course about?
Foxtrots, quicksteps, waltzes, rumbas, cha cha chas and sambas. This is a rare opportunity to enjoy, and experience from the player’s point of view, the sound and style of strict tempo Ballroom and Latin music from the 1930s to 1950s using published (“stock”) arrangements. Trumpets, trombones, saxes (perhaps doubling clarinet), violins, guitar, double bass, drums and even (at Roger’s discretion) the odd singer, will enjoy rehearsing favourite standards and neglected gems, exploring the dancers’ needs and authentic style, as well as the universal skills of the ensemble musician.
Please note that applications from drummers and singers will be referred to Roger before acceptance.
Tutor website: www.rogermoonpianist.co.uk
What will we cover?
Strict tempo Ballroom and Latin music from the 1930s to 1950s.
What will we accomplish? By the end of this course you will be able to…
Tune, blend, balance and keep time with up to 16 other players, playing (except for violins) one to a part. Navigate through a typical Dance Band arrangement. Understand the significance of the term Strict Tempo, and appreciate that music which is easy listening is not always easy to play!
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
ABILITY: CONFIDENT, SKILFUL.
Fairly good sight reading and the ability to play syncopated rhythms. For violinists, the ability to play in a small section alongside louder instruments.
How will the course be taught, and will any preparation be required?
Taught through rehearsing a selection of arrangements of popular songs of the period.
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?
Your instrument(s), mutes for brass, a pencil and a sense of humour.
What previous participants said about this course…
“A spiffing weekend!”
“Fabulous varied music and a great tutor who explains well and makes it fun.”
“Roger is an inspiring course leader, infinitely patient and good-humoured. The music is a most engaging snapshot of the genre in its period.”
“Small group, very friendly, lovely music and first-class arrangements, first-class outgoing and welcoming tutor.”