The French and Spanish keyboard repertoires are particularly distinctive and colourful. Receive friendly advice on how to approach with confidence the performance of this repertoire.
STANDARD: CONFIDENT, SKILFUL
Resident: £402 Non-Resident: £292 (25% off for under 27s) Code: 25/205
Booking for Members opens at 9am on Thursday 12th September 2024
Booking for Non-Members opens at 9am on Thursday 3rd October 2024
For details on how to become a Member to take advantage of early booking, see here.
What is the course about?
Stephen Gutman leads an exploration of French and Spanish keyboard music from Scarlatti through to Messiaen. We shall investigate the extraordinary sound worlds of such composers as Rameau, Debussy, Satie, Scarlatti, Granados, Albeniz and Mompou. Participants are asked to bring along two or three pre-prepared pieces to work on. Stephen will give advice on how to pace, pedal and generally colour your performances in a mutually supportive class environment. If you are unsure of what to prepare for your level, a list of suggested repertoire can be provided in advance. There will also be an opportunity to play duets. You will have a chance to share your work and get valuable insight into expression, technique and performance. About three pieces are suggested.this year we will be particularly celebrating the anniversaries of Bizet and Ravel.
Tutor website: www.stephengutman.co.uk
What will we cover?
We will look into the various composers including their historical context, and their particular characteristics. Advice on pacing, pedalling and colouring your pieces will be given alongside suggestions for fingering and help with technical issues. There will be the chance to play duets with the other participants.
What will we accomplish?
By the end of this course you can expect to have a deeper understanding of the particular pieces you have brought and how to play them. Listening to other people will give you ideas and inspiration for tackling new works and a considerably increased knowledge of the French and Spanish repertoires in general. You will have had the opportunity to gain insights into how to approach with confidence the structure and performance of this repertoire.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
Intermediate, Skilful
How will the course be taught, and will any preparation be required?
There will be a mix of discussion, tuition and performance. The main body of the course consists of individual lessons given by the tutor on the two or three pieces each participant has prepared in advance. Advice from the tutor will be carefully tailored for each student. Participants are encouraged to follow the score being played during the lesson (scores will be provided). An evening session of the course will be devoted to playing suitable duets provided by the tutor. Participants are also welcome to bring their own duets. The final session is a final informal concert which includes both solos and duets.
Will music be provided in advance of the course?
Participants should bring their own copies of the music which they intend to play on the course. A list of the complete repertoire being brought by everyone will be provided by Benslow Music in advance. Participants are invited to bring their own copies of those pieces too. The tutor will also provide the scores.