Clarinet repertoire workshop
Time: 18:00 - 19:30
Location: Keeley Street
Choose a start date
- Course Code: ME148A
- Dates: 18/09/24 - 27/11/24
- Time: 18:00 - 19:30
- Taught: Wed, Evening
- Duration: 11 sessions (over 11 weeks)
- Location: Keeley Street
- Tutor: George Sleightholme
Course Code: ME148A
Choose a start date
Duration: 11 sessions (over 11 weeks)
Please note: We offer a wide variety of financial support to make courses affordable. Just visit our online Help Centre for more information on a range of topics including fees, online learning and FAQs.
What is the course about?
This course covers the technique and musicianship relevant to the pieces taught. Associated techniques such as finger dexterity and tone projection are taught through the use of studies and exercises in this friendly and enjoyable class.
What will we cover?
- Two or three pieces are studied each term covering musical and technical aspects
- Weekly scales or technical exercises are set to work on breathing, tone, articulation, intonation, or the altissimo register
- There is always discussion in class to which all the students contribute
- Ensemble pieces are studied.
What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...
- Be more familiar with clarinet repertoire from musical and technical perspectives
- Play and perform with greater technical ability
- Demonstrate an awareness of elements of good performance (musicianship/sensitivity)
- Apply knowledge of new and existing techniques to clarinet playing
- Perform with confidence in solo and group playing
- Participate in a successful end-of-term performance.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
The repertoire is grade 5 standard and upwards, including Classical, Romantic and modern composers. We will work through appropriate studies and other technical work as well as ensemble parts. Students should have an appropriate level of technique before enrolling: a good basic sound, ability to play comfortably and fluently in the middle and chalumeau registers, with some experience of the altissimo register.
You will need to follow written and verbal instructions in English and engage in class discussions.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
Learning as a group playing along with the tutor plus individually.
A regular practice routine outside class time is essential to make progress in this course.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
You will need your own Bb clarinet and supply of reeds. Most materials will be provided by the tutor via Google Classroom, but you may need to puchase sheet music for solo repertoire.
Please check our page on Where to buy music and instruments which lists lists some of our local music shops and includes specific advice on clarinets.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
You may take Clarinet repertoire workshop for as many terms as you wish, and progress to Clarinet advanced workshop when read. Your tutor will advise. You may also be interested in Ensembles, Musician theory and musicianship, or
Music history.
George is a freelance clarinet and bass clarinet player and teacher. Having graduated with Distinction from the Royal Academy of Music (MA, 2010), George regularly plays in Brandenburg Sinfonia in London with players from the top London orchestras. He is a member of Kidenza Orchestra, performing classical orchestral music to thousands of young audience members every year. George has given many premieres, including pieces for the LSO's Soundhub scheme and in various national festivals. He has recorded widely, including at Abbey Road Studios. George has released two albums with his group iyatraQuartet, to critical acclaim. They were awarded the Kennedy Award 2019 by violinist Nigel Kennedy. George has led music workshops for Music for Autism, Aldeburgh Participate! and Bristol Pre-Conservatoire, and performed several operas for Royal Opera House Education and Outreach. He also conducts Surbiton Royal British Legion Marching Band and Palace Band in Alexandra Palace and at Benslow Music.
Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.
