 |
|
        |
 |
     |
Archive: The Percussion Summer School |
|
The learning programme The course centres on developing the essentials of strong rhythm, good technique and musical imagination whilst covering a wide range of percussive subjects. Typically, the day begins at 9am with a session on inner pulse, followed by a group workshop on, for example, drumkit, timpani, Latin-American percussion, orchestral percussion or tuned (xylophone, vibraphone etc.) Then we split up into smaller groups in order to concentrate on different aspects of technique, style, repertoire or improvisation. There are also opportunities for private lessons with the tutors. Classes normally finish at 5pm, allowing time in the evening for relaxing and absorbing what has been learnt. Throughout the week we rehearse in various ensembles, large and small, in preparation for an informal concert which takes place on the Friday. “Congratulations on a brilliant idea and it was wonderful for me to be surrounded by such great musicians” (college student age 20) “Everything was fantastic. The concert was very challenging but glad I had the opportunity…the whole course was an experience that has inspired me” (late starter age 50) “I have improved rhythm and am more informed about timp playing” (school student age 16) “I gained confidence in improvising in front of people, learnt more about world music and finally learnt a groove on kit!” (member of National Youth Orchestra age 19) “It has given an insight into areas of percussion that I will be looking into further” (professional drummer age 39) “Very worthwhile, enjoyable experience! Informative and good fun! Very well organised! Thank you!” (college student age 20) The tutors The principal tutors are Stephen Keogh (renowned drummer with Peter King and many jazz greats) and Marney O’Sullivan (principal timpanist of the Orchestra of Opera North). As guest tutors in 2005 we welcome for the first time marimba soloist Daniella Ganeva to teach tuned percussion, and also Brazilian percussionist Felix Gibbons, who has played with the likes of Milton Nascimento and Gilberto Gil. We also look forward to a return visit from the amazingly versatile Sophie Hastings. The right course for you? The School is open to all keen percussionists, drummers and teachers aged 16+.There is no upper age limit – we’ve found that shared enthusiasm for music overcomes all differences! The course is not aimed at beginners: you will get most out of it if you already have some experience playing with other musicians, whether in a jazz or pop group, theatre, brass band, wind ensemble, youth or amateur orchestra. On the first day of the course you
will spend some time privately with the tutors so we can make sure you
get the tuition and playing experience that will most benefit you. Location Leeds is one of the UK’s fastest-growing cities, a thriving cultural and financial centre with great shops and nightlife. The West Park Centre is a hub of music and education in Leeds, being the home of Northern Ballet Theatre, Artforms (formerly the Leeds Music Support Service) and the Orchestra of Opera North. Many local orchestras, youth ensembles and bands rehearse here at this former girls’ school. There is some catering on site and there are shops nearby. The popular neighbourhood of Headingley is only a mile away, where there is a cinema and lively pubs and restaurants abound. Getting there The Centre is conveniently located just off the Leeds Ring Road (A6120) and there is a large free car park. There is a bus service from central Leeds. Taxis from Leeds Station cost about £7, and from Leeds-Bradford Airport about £10. Accommodation The course is non-residential, but many students come from outside the West Yorkshire area so we offer advice and assistance to help them find a place to stay for the week. There many types of accommodation available, from rooms in private houses from as little as £10 a night, through student flats to B&Bs and hotels. We may be able to arrange a shuttle service from where you are staying, depending on numbers. Application and fees The fee for the course is £195 Your place on the course can be
reserved at any stage by sending a deposit. The Percussion Summer School Alternatively you can send a bank transfer to Further information If you have any questions which are not answered here please email us at percussion@globalmusicfoundation.org We very much look forward to welcoming you at the Percussion Summer School 2005!
|