A friendly introduction for flute, lute and cello players to the rich but sometimes forbidding world of baroque chamber music.
STANDARD: IMPROVER, CONFIDENT.
Resident: £572 Non-Resident: £435 (25% off for under 27s) Code: 25/363
Booking for Members opens at 9am on Wednesday 27 November 2024
Non-Member and online booking opens at 9am on Monday 16 December 2024
For details on how to become a Member to take advantage of early booking, see here
What is the course about?
This course is designed as an introduction to baroque chamber music, with an emphasis on parsing the music as an ensemble. The 18th century saw a wealth of chamber music written for flute (or high instrument) and basso continuo. While these rich and evocative pieces are some of the era’s most delightful offerings, they can be forbidding to realise for non-specialist ensembles. We will be teaching a part-by-part guide to approaching and performing in this genre.
The course will delivered at modern pitch, A=440.
Tutor website: sambrownmusic.org / lisanelsen.com
What will we cover?
Over four days, we will be tutoring the individual instruments in their respective roles, and in ensemble contexts. For flautists, the emphasis will be on understanding and responding to the thoroughbass, which forms the backbone of the music. For cellists, the focus will be on providing a supportive but empathetic bass. Lutenists will learn what goes into an effective continuo part, including simple realisations from figures.
What will we accomplish?
Understand and perform baroque chamber music!
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
No previous experience in the genre is required, as this is designed as an introductory-intermediate course. Some ability with sight-reading is very welcome. Lutenists will not need any previous experience with figures, although some knowledge of bass clef will be helpful, as well as familiarity with tablature.
How will the course be taught, and will any preparation be required?
The course will be a practical one, with individual and ensemble sessions based around group playing. Tutor feedback will be readily on hand. We encourage straightforward peer feedback, but to take a rule from dance etiquette: response yes - guidance no.
Will music be provided in advance of the course?
Yes, scores will be provided in advance. Exercises will also be provided in sessions. Ensembles are encouraged to investigate Benslow’s excellent library!
Is there anything I need to bring?
Your instrument, and a pencil.
Tutor biographies
Lisa Nelsen Described by The Times - London as “…a flautist and a half…”, Lisa Nelsen is internationally recognised for her versatility on the flute as a soloist, chamber and orchestra member, as well as an educator, mentor and leader in galvanising groups of musicians to work together. Having participated in the recent Guiness World Record concert with Donne’s “Let Her Music Play”, Lisa will play with the National Youth Concert Band this spring premiering a new concerto for flute by Bill Connor. She often performs Julian Metzger in chamber ensembles, and works regularly with harpist Eleanor Turner, and pianist Michelle Santiago. Former Chair of the British Flute Society, Lisa enjoys the challenges and rewards of connecting musicians.