Solo Classes

Classes are offered for all string instruments, (including classical guitar and harp), Woodwind and Brass. The majority are still in the traditional competitive format, although we are increasingly providing opportunities for performances that are adjudicated, graded, but not placed. These non-competitive classes are available in all disciplines except Harp, and they offer the opportunity to perform without being restricted by the rules that are essential for creating fair competition. All music played is free choice, allowing each performer to play what appeals to them, and what suits them musically.

Broadly speaking, the instrumental competitive classes are categorised by level rather than age.

The four levels are: Elementary – up to Grade 2 Transitional – Grades 3-4 Intermediate – Grades 5-6 Advanced – Grade 7 and above

More Advanced Classes and Major Awards

Thelma King Instrumental Award

The Repertoire classes at Intermediate and Advanced levels are more demanding, with one piece from memory expected. The Advanced level Repertoire classes are qualifying classes for the prestigious Thelma King Instrumental Award in which one overall winner of the Advanced Repertoire Classes is awarded a place on an orchestral summer school, preferably the European Youth Summer Music course run by the British & International Federation of Festivals.

The award is open to all string, woodwind and brass players. To be considered, you must enter one of the following Advanced Repertoire classes: S12; S14; W8; or W17. The adjudicators will select from the Repertoire classes a shortlist that will then be asked to play in a final late on Wednesday afternoon 17 March in the Banqueting Room of the Guildhall. For this final you should play two of your repertoire class pieces.

The winner will be expected to play at the Saturday evening concert on 20 March, when the award will be formally presented.

The Premier Award

The Concerto Classes (S17 for Strings, W20 for Wind) always take place in the Guildhall Banqueting Room, and the winner is invited to compete for the Premier Award of the Festival. They are joined by the Piano Concerto winner for a play off during the Festival Music Concert. The award carries a substantial monetary prize as well as the fabulous trophy.

Harps

Taking place in the perfect setting of the Guildhall Banqueting Room

Classes for solo harpists, but also Class S21 ‘Music with Harp’, which gives an opportunity for players who have performed individually to play together.

Group Classes for the early years

A format that the Mid-Somerset has developed over the years is one in which the young musicians attend for a whole session of music making, playing together but also performing by themselves if they wish.  Above all, rejoicing in making music together and hearing other performances.

Recorder Morning

This provides a mixture of workshop, group classes and individual classes, with some competitive, some not. The ‘Open’ classes are for players of all levels, so that beginners will be able to hear performances of much higher levels.

Two local teachers commented:

II thought the recorder workshop was excellent and all of my kids enjoyed it very much. (Helen Kucharek)

I would definitely want to bring children along next year, and maybe enter some group competitive classes. (Caroline Miller)

Fiddlesticks

An enchanting session for young violinists, playing in a group but also individually.

Woodwind and Brass Beginners’ Workshop

New for 2010!

Classical Guitars

3 of the 4 classes offered are now non-competitive. We are delighted that local guitarist Denian Arcoleo is the adjudicator and leader of this session. Find out more about him by visiting the Adjudicators page.

Georgian Music Class

Tom Clarke, a well-known champion of Georgian music and concert promoter in Bath, is generously donating a prize of £150 to the winner of this new class.

In the splendid setting of the Georgian Guildhall Banqueting Room, participants are invited to perform music composed in the Georgian period (1714-1830) and of any nationality. The class is open to soloists and also to instrumental chamber groups and ensembles.

To assist in creating the atmosphere of the Georgian period, any details such as 18th century costume, period instruments etc, would be welcomed but are not necessary! We can help you with costume hire if you are willing to enter into the spirit of the event!

The Georgian Music class will take place in the evening on Tuesday 16 March 2010 in the Guildhall Banqueting Room.

See syllabus and Festival calendar for details