Early music ensemble: taster

About this course

The ensemble explores repertoire for combinations of string, wind and keyboard instruments associated with the 17th-century broken consort. Participants study scores to see how individual parts combine, then develop ensemble playing through group and sectional work. Teaching combines explanation, demonstration, presentation, listening and score reading. Sessions address tuning in a mixed instrumental group, early Baroque phrasing and articulation, tempo changes, embellishment and ornamentation, with time for practising individual parts.

What you'll learn

• Improve intonation when playing in a mixed-instrument ensemble
• Respond musically to other players in a small group
• Apply elements of early Baroque phrasing, articulation, tempo and ornamentation
• Use score reading to understand how instrumental parts combine

Is this course right for you?

Although listed at beginner level, the course is intended for instrumentalists already playing at least to Grade 5 standard with good music-reading skills. Previous ensemble experience is helpful but not essential. Participants should be prepared to play in groups and sections, practise their own parts and experiment with embellishment and ornamentation.

• Requires at least Grade 5 standard on an instrument
• Good music-reading skills are expected, although sight-reading ability is not required
• Previous ensemble experience is helpful rather than essential
• Suitable for players willing to explore ornamentation and embellishment

Before you go

• Participants need to bring their own suitable instrument, such as a recorder, viol, flute, violin, viola, oboe, cello, bassoon, harpsichord, clavichord or spinet.
• A digital keyboard is provided by the college.
• Bring a pencil and eraser.
• Musical materials are provided by the tutor.