Berkshire Maestros String Workshop
The boys
were treated to a selection of famous pieces such as Mamma Mia, Jaws, Ski
Sunday Theme, themes from the Carnival of the Animals and Pachelbel's Canon
amongst many others. In amongst this, the boys were given a brief history and
explanation of each instrument and how it is played - a violin was even cut in
half to demonstrate how the sound it made. A highlight was the cellists'
experiment using a box and string on how different pitches are achieved. Many
boys were given the opportunity to play the double bass and a highlight was
when the electric violin and cello were brought out! The
afternoon workshop gave a fantastic insight into the string family and the boys
certainly learned a huge amount and enjoyed the range of pieces played. Simon
Carr, our woodwind teacher, will be giving a demonstration next week which will
include showing us his vast collection of saxophones. Further pictures from the workshop are here.
Following
on from the Brass session last term and as part of our instrumental tuition
trial scheme, we have set up for the VIs this term, we were delighted to welcome
some string players from the Berkshire Maestros to give
a workshop / concert to the VIs and IVs on Thursday afternoon.
I hope that many more boys will take up the chance to try out an instrument free of charge for 5 lessons this term. Parents of boys considering taking up this scheme are welcome to contact me via the school. The forms and relevant information is posted behind the parents' login page.
WDJG