Sight Reading
In September we practised reading rests accurately, and we'll do more of this in October. And be ready for lots of reading at sight – nothing too tricky, but aiming to do it with confidence.
Confident Singing
Getting into the habit of breathing effectively is a key challenge for quite a few, so we reviewed that last time. We'll carry on working with songs about singing, practising good breathing.
A Cappella
Everyone there in September has a copy of the August songs – pieces in 2 and 3 parts which give us more flexibility. The Coquet Room group had a go at “Tunc Aplexus”, “Al Primo”, and maybe the “Ave Maria”. The Main Hall group worked on “Quand je bois du vin claret” amd the opening of “Ad Te Perenne Gaudium” in order to concentrate on singing a series of chords accurately and confidently. We'll do some more of that sort of thing as it seemed to be helpful. If you're coming and can spare a bit of time to look over your parts, that would be very good.
Fret Group
It was great to have a guitar in the group last time as well as the ukuleles – we could do with more if you can encourage anyone else to come along! We focussed on just two chords, aiming to get really good at moving between them without having to look, and played pieces in parts from tablature. Another two chords and more tabs next time!
Slow Tunes
Our warm-up set is expanding: Salmon Tails, Winster Gallop, Jimmy Allen and now Rakes of Mallow, Davy Nick-Nack. Last time we got to know some polkas that some of us have had for a while, but we haven't played recently. We enjoyed Ashokan Farewell, Elsey's Waltz as a break from less familiar tunes and then learned Whinhams' Reel and Mrs Milligan. Our cool-down was Da Slockit Light. Come ready for the warm-up set and more getting to know less familiar tunes and enjoying old favourites.
Swedish
We feel we're getting into the feel of the music with Chris' guidance. In October we're going to explore some slower tunes.
Music Saturdays are monthly workshops for singers and players. Everyone is welcome to come to one or more sessions as often as they want. See Music Saturdays Page for more general information and plans for the next session.
Cost of Confident Singing is just 50p. For everything else, it's £1.50 for each session to cover room hire, refreshments and materials.