Introductory Blow & Blast workshops aim to provide the ‘entry level’ experience of playing in a group context that is seldom available to adults.  Enjoy the social side of working with others, attempt new challenges and develop the skills that are specific to the ensemble situation.  Places are limited, to ensure that everyone can receive help if they require it.  Each workshop is an individual session, so there is no need to commit to regular attendance.

Intended for:
Those who have taken up a woodwind instrument as an adult or returned to playing after a long gap.  Ideal if your technique, music-reading skills and/or range of notes are still limited.

Don’t yet play but thinking of starting?  Or getting an old instrument down out of attic?  Follow our starting up link for some tips and advice - or consider coming to one of our group 'taster' sessions.

Instruments:
Flute, oboe, clarinet or bassoon.  You will need your own instrument!

Objective:
To develop skills specific to ensemble playing and to have fun making music together.  The workshops are not intended to teach you how to play your instrument but help is at hand if you have forgotten a fingering or find ‘counting’ a problem.

Music:
This will depend on the composition of the group.  You will be asked for details of your instrument and standard at the time of booking.  We aim to provide parts specifically tailored to suit the ability level of each participant, so that those with more experience are challenged but less confident players don’t feel intimidated.

Standard:
A minimum of 5 notes to about Grade 3 or 4.  As we operate on a 'first come, first served' basis, the standard varies a bit from one workshop to the next, depending on who signs up.  So it is always worth coming more than once - another group may prove less frightening, or more rewarding.  You might also like to consider participating in the Blow and Blast woodwind band.

Not sufficiently challenging for you?  How about our intermediate workshops?

Blow and Blast sessions are led by mother-and-daughter team, Tricia and Trona Melville-Mason, both experienced woodwind teachers and musicians.
 

Most people who take up an orchestral woodwind instrument as an adult are hoping to reach the stage where they can enjoy participating in some sort of band, orchestra or ensemble.  However, finding an appropriate group is easier said than done.  Most are intended for far more experienced players.

Even those organisations that welcome the adult learner are inclined to prove disappointing, particularly to those who have no previous musical experience: 'Parts are easy' turns out to mean 'not easy enough'.  The 'friendly and supportive' existing members tell you that the junior band - full of competitive youngsters - would be more appropriate!  No wonder adult learners feel demoralised, discouraged and inclined to give up altogether.  We feel that this is very sad, so our workshops aim to provide a really positive experience.

More information about forthcoming workshop dates