Proof that band music isn’t stuffy and boring – I thoroughly enjoyed being a part of this!
London Gay Symphonic Winds perform Bowie’s “Let’s Dance”, the opener to our Spring concert on 21st April 2018.
Festive cheer
Bass clarinet duties with London Gay Symphonic Winds at our Christmas concert, performing André Jutras festive medley ‘C’est Noël’. I’m not the biggest fan of Christmas music, but there’s some really good contemporary festive pieces in the wind band repertoire and even I admit it’s hard not to enjoy this one 🙂
Scales, and why we should love them
Scales. Some love ’em, some hate ’em, and one of the things I get asked most often by my (usually younger) students is “But whyyyyy do I have to learn scales? They’re so boring! They don’t mean anything!” Almost without exception, the reason they think that is because it’s been …
It Takes Two
A few weeks ago during a break in rehearsal, the music director of one of my symphonic wind bands asked me if it would be possible to work something up – quickly – for a feature in our upcoming Spring concert. “OK,” I said. “How about a bass clarinet duet? …
A Bass Called Brenda
In many respects, instruments are a bit like cars. Sometimes they’re simply a tool to get you from A to B – reliable and exactly what you need but ultimately boring and characterless. Other times you end up with one that may be a bit rough around the edges and …
Beginning clarinet without breaking the bank
I received an enquiry today from a potential student who asked me “Do I actually need a clarinet of my own to take lessons?” While the answer may seem obvious, it’s actually a very valid question. Theoretically, you could go for a lesson every week with your own box of …
Community music: opportunities for all
You don’t have to be a professional musician to enjoy the benefits of music-making with others. Have you ever thought about the community music opportunities available to anyone who can play an ensemble instrument? Have a quick search around the internet and you’ll find a multitude of concert bands, wind …