The Benedetti Foundation is delighted to be bringing the Benedetti Sessions to Bolton for the very first time. The Bolton Sessions will take place 4 - 5 February and registration closes on 16 January.
The Bolton Sessions will have workshops for:
1. Introductory String Orchestra (open strings – Grade 1*) – Saturday 4 February
2. Beginner String Players (Grade 1 – 3*) – Saturday 4 & Sunday 5 February
3. Intermediate String Players (Grade 4 – 6*) – Saturday 4 & Sunday 5 February
4. Advanced String Players (Grade 7+*) – Saturday 4 & Sunday 5 February
5. Instrumental Teachers (a professional development weekend) – Saturday 4 & Sunday 5February
6. Primary School Classes – Monday 27 February
*Approximate playing level – no grades need to have been taken.
The Bolton Sessions will be led by Nicola Benedetti and the Foundation’s team of tutors, hosting young people of all ages and stages and instrumental teachers from across Greater Manchester. The Sessions will be approaching music in a way that inspires fun and enjoyment, a greater sense of togetherness, a true abandonment of caution, and an embracing of scratches, scrapes, as well as connecting to creativity, to dance, rhythm and improvisation.
The Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced Orchestras will come together on Sunday to work on a special arrangement by The Ayoub Sisters for mass orchestra. Participants will also work on one piece in individual orchestras during the Sessions and will receive music and tutorial videos in advance to help prepare.
On Monday 27 February, the Foundation will work with local primary schools from across Greater Manchester. This inspiring and engaging schools' workshop will be led by Lucy Drever and Calum Huggan and will introduce pupils to the fundamentals of making music covering the basics of pulse, rhythm, pitch and harmony. Pupils will be encouraged to consider how music is used in their lives, how to listen differently and in turn become more engaged, discerning, and curious about music.
Nicola Benedetti commented, "There are no limits to our learning possibilities through music. We just have to be curious and open-minded enough to notice that this language is as rich as life itself, and we aspire to expose our participants to this. In order for everyone to gain the most from the workshop, we require a commitment for participants to prepare. Regardless of level, we want to help everyone to believe that to be good at something and therefore experience more enjoyment, it takes consistent and intelligent work. It doesn't happen on its own. By signing up for our workshops, participants are also signing up to daily preparation. It doesn't have to take long, but the consistency is key. We will support and guide everyone all the way through this process, via our tutorial videos and online resources and through supporting your leaning environment. We can’t wait to get started!’
The Benedetti Foundation was established in 2019 by inspirational Scottish violinist and dedicated music education advocate Nicola Benedetti. The Foundation delivers transformative experiences through mass music education and aims to ensure equal access to music participation and appreciation for all.
How to get involved
1. Visit www.benedettifoundation.org/benedetti-sessions for more information
2. Registration closes on 16 January
3. Registration fee is £10 for Introductory Orchestra, £15 for Beginner Orchestra and £20 for Intermediate and Advanced. No one will be prevented from attending due to financial circumstances and full bursary support is available.
4. The Benedetti Foundation relies solely on donations to carry out its work and are very grateful to anyone who is in a position to make an additional donation towards the cost of the workshops.
5. Join in on social media using the hashtag #benedettisessions
All Images: Alister Firth