NEW FOR 2008

Musical appreciation with Bryce Morrison (Week 1)
This exciting new course will be directed under the inspirational guidance of Bryce Morrison, one of the music profession’s most distinguished authorities. Bryce Morrison is well known internationally as an outstanding author, critic, broadcaster, teacher and ‘pianofile extraordinaire’. This innovative course will offer individual lessons in the morning sessions and everyone will receive two hours of study on a one-to-one basis during the week. Participants may choose to have either traditional one-to-one piano lessons with Bryce or one-to-one sessions in which Bryce will offer illuminating advice on the art of musical criticism.

Please indicate your preference on the application form. The afternoon session will then offer a wonderful opportunity for seminars, where the entire class, led by Bryce, will have opportunities to discuss and explore all areas of musical appreciation. Everyone will be guaranteed a memorable and intriguing course, all delivered with wit and humour.

Organ Course
Week One This new course will be led by Christopher Stokes who was appointed Organist and Master of the Choristers of Manchester Cathedral in 1996, and is head of Organ Studies at Chetham’s School of Music. Three hours of lessons, alongside workshops and opportunities to play in the glorious Manchester Cathedral, guarantee to ensure a stimulating experience.

Piano Duet Course
Week Two This long awaited new course gives the opportunity to study the wonderful repertoire for four hands in detail during three hours of lessons. Many of the faculty have great experience in this area and will offer thought-provoking and practical help in perfecting the challenges unique to duettists. Applications are welcome from pre-formed duos only. It would be very helpful if participants could list repertoire they wish to study. There will be opportunities to play in masterclasses, workshops and recitals during the week.

On the pastoral side there will be some exciting changes this year. There will be a ‘Youth co-ordinator’ who will be on hand to help all under 18’s settle in and make friends. There are always many younger participants, and in the words of one rather shy teenager last year, “I’m so glad I plucked up courage to come – I just can’t believe how incredibly friendly everyone is. Please make sure everyone knows that you will be made very welcome. See you next year!”

A ‘sports co-ordinator’ will organise activities for all the energetic participants and it is anticipated that gym circuits, aerobics, swimming, table tennis and football will be on the agenda – all ages very welcome!

To help settle in all newcomers to the course, Rosie and David Johnston will welcome everyone at the reception on the opening evening. They will be available throughout the course to help make the week run smoothly.

Once again we are thrilled to offer the opportunity to study Alexander lessons, Eurythmics and Chi Kung and Tai Chi at a small additional cost. Book early to avoid disappointment. Additionally there will be opportunities to visit the world famous historic library at Chetham’s, as well as organised trips to see museums, galleries and of course Manchester’s famous shopping centre.

As all of the tuition on the summer school is open to observers, participants will be able to listen to lessons from as many other tutors on the course as they wish.