Come and play your saxophone in small and large groups with music provided and expert help and encouragement.
STANDARD: IMPROVER, CONFIDENT, SKILFUL
Resident: £402 Non-Resident: £292 (25% off for under 27s) Code: 25/231
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?
Alastair and Sally lead another of their popular saxophone courses where you’ll play in ensembles ranging from quartets to whole sax choirs. You will explore a wide range of repertoire and will benefit from his wealth of experience as a performer and educator. In a friendly and supportive atmosphere, he will coach ensembles, technique classes and also give individual attention to any issues you may have. The course is taught in a friendly and mutually supportive atmosphere, and is also very good fun! Please let us know what size(s) of instruments you intend to bring when you apply. The basis level of playing for this course is around Grade 5. This course will finish after lunch on Sunday and will include an extra session from 2.30-4pm on the Saturday in place of the Sunday afternoon session.
Tutor website: alastairpenman.co.uk
What will we cover?
The course is aimed at improving sight reading and chamber music skills. The tutors have a large library of saxophone music and tips to improve playing are added in throughout the course. The main key to the course is variety so in one session you could be playing Van Morrison’s ‘Moondance’ in an octet and in the next some Bach in a quartet. Styles of music covered include folk, jazz, classical and pop.
What will we accomplish? By the end of this course you will be able to…
The course is aimed at improving sight reading and chamber music skills.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
Standard: Improver, Confident, Skilful
How will the course be taught, and will any preparation be required?
You will play in everything from a quartet to large ensemble. No preparation is required.
Will music be provided in advance of the course?
No, it will be provided by the tutor on the course.
Is there anything I need to bring?
The atmosphere is always relaxed and friendly. Participants are encouraged to bring more than one type of saxophone.
What previous participants said about this course…
“A friendly, non-judgemental environment (with fabulous food) where you get unique opportunities to test your musical abilities!”
“Go for it! I was initially doubtful I would feel at ease as although I am experienced in ensemble playing and play saxophone a lot I have had no formal training or exams on the instrument. I had a great time and did not feel out of place. All the students were friendly and generous in their playing.”
“One of the best sax courses I've attended at Benslow Music. Some new music and much of it manageable but that pushed me just enough.”