If cello and the desire to play it is an important part of your life
Easter Course
7-13 April 2024
Welcome to the Gathering of the Clans Easter course 2024. We are back at the superb facilities of Bryanston School where we can get some solid work done on our cellos, enjoy the countryside, the fabulous gym and swimming pool, lovely food, and much needed time to relax in the evenings!
As ever the course offers a cello lesson every day, accompanied masterclasses, performance platforms and student concerts; all this is done in a non-judgemental supportive atmosphere. We are all on a cello journey with its disciplines and routines. Ultimately the aim is to go on stage ‘fearlessly’, ready to share our best performances. I feel that there is so much to be learnt from the course in this regard; each one of us has a different experience of being on stage and here is the chance to find out. This is what I wrote a few years ago when I was thinking about my teaching…
“I read somewhere about the ‘cultured hands’ of the brain surgeon. It is a good phrase to describe the bow hold/bowing and precision on the fingerboard and takes as long to learn and perfect and in some ways, is even more subtle than the surgeon. It is very hard work and demanding because it forces the learner to confront themselves no matter how musically gifted. There is a foundation of knowledge about how the instrument works that is indispensable, what I call core skills. As I frequently say on my school reports, “Sue musician not magician.”
I’m thrilled to welcome back as our core teaching faculty Jonathan Aasgaard, Tim Lowe and Matt Lowe and myself. Depending on numbers applying I will bring in other teachers. As usual JP Ekins will be accompanying masterclasses and performance classes. Come and join us next Easter and maybe some magic can happen!
Sue Lowe
(Artistic Director)
If you would like to discuss anything about the course then get in touch on 07916 172700
27th July - 1 August 2024
Dublin, Rathdown School
Details to follow soon (early April)
The course meets for a week in the idyllic surroundings of Bryanston School in Dorset.
The Aim of the
International
Cello Gathering
We welcome students from about mid-teens, including adult players. The minimum standard is approximately ABRSM Grade VIII but this is only a guide. The Easter course is a great way for music college and university music department cellists to prepare for upcoming exam recitals.
In this friendly, uncompetitive environment there are no agendas other than to help ensure healthy performance practice while preparing you to be on stage or in the exam room ready to play to the best of your ability. Whatever your goal, the course is designed to help individuals with their specific needs as well as facilitating outstanding short term progress.
If cello and the desire to play it is an important part of your life then this unique course with its personable, friendly atmosphere and wonderful setting has everything.
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I feel like I have grown and improved so much within the week. All the teachers have given me great advice which I can continue to use to help improve my playing. In between the lessons there was plenty of time to practice and to put into place what I had learnt. As well as great teachers, having the time with an accompanist and a performance opportunity was hugely beneficial, especially as I have my final recital coming up.
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About
For more than 30 years this course has been at the forefront of cello education. With students of all ages and standards welcomed, we create a friendly and uncompetitive environment, designed to help the individual with their specific needs.
You are in the best hands as the faculty is selected from the most gifted players and teachers across Europe. All of them are renown for their skill as teachers and their enjoyment in sharing their knowledge and experience . Whatever your goal, we provide the foundations to ensure healthy performance practice as well as facilitating outstanding short term progress.
If cello and the desire to play it is an important part of your life then this unique course with its personable, friendly atmosphere and wonderful setting has everything