Sight Reading

In February we looked at how you can prepare a piece you are going to sing, and how that really helps you to sing more accurately and confidently. We focussed on a Kyrie by Galuppi, working through page 1 together. People who were there have a copy. If you want one before March 9, contact Alison – we'll sing pages 1 and 2, and do some more learning how to prepare. (As well as the inevitable count and clap that everyone enjoys so much!)

Confident Singing

We're going to keep on working in groups on the spirituals, bringing in sustaining the sound and dynamics. If you haven't the music and want it in advance, make contact.

A Cappella

Work in small groups, following suggestions for what to sing or doing your own thing, with advice and support. Less experienced singers are going to continue practising songs already learned to improve confidence and musicality - “Now is the Month of Maying” and Byrd's “In Nomine”. More experienced who would like to work in 2s or 3s should prepare one or two pieces from folder 1. Those would want to sing in a slightly bigger group encouraged to choose some pieces from the new SATB set – definitely prepare the first one.

Ukuleles

We'll include working on minor chords and songs that go with them. Last time we enjoyed learning the tune for “Afton Water”, and we'll probably spend some more time on that. Practise chord sequences Am, Dm, Em, Am and Dm, Gm, Am, Dm.

Slow Tunes

Last time everyone picked a tune from the set for us to play – that worked really well. Richard's pick was 2 jigs - Martin Hayes and Kesh Jig, and although we made a reasonable job of them we agreed we'd practise them for March. Any other jigs you'd like to bring along? Maybe make up one of your own? Remember the Northumberland Arms session on February 26.

Swedish Folk Music

This is a new venture – we're going to try it out to see how it goes. Chris Metherell is going to introduce us to some tunes. Any instrument can play them, but, whereas the folk music we often play in Northumberland tends to be in keys like G and D, so lies easily under the fingers for fiddle and recorder players, Swedish tunes can be in keys like C and F. That makes it easier for instruments like clarinets to join in. There are harmony parts too (I think), and we can make sure that everyone can cope. The session will follow on from Slow Tunes, starting at 3.30 and finishing at 5pm. I'll bring extra biscuits!

More details about the group on the Music Saturdays page