Earlier this year I journeyed North to record for Dave Brons` new project `RETURN TO ARDA`
Hello again & welcome to Summer term! I do hope that you had an enjoyable & refreshing Easter break.
I do aim to keep my playing activities away from my tuition commitments. However, there are one or two dates that I shall be away for during this term – mainly for concerts & recordings. The first of these is from Thurs 19th – Sun 22nd June (at an event with Graham Kendrick & band). The other event is the Royal Norfolk Show (Weds 25th June) and there are two Monday Bank Holiday’s in May: on the 5th & 26th May (the second BH Monday occurs during Half Term week, fortunately).
Please do consider replacing any missed or lost lessons (due to these or any other dates).
Here’s my News & information for Summer Term:
Private Lessons: will commence on Monday 28th April (a slightly later start due to an album launch in London this week). Summer Term will end on Friday 18th July – last day of private lessons. Holiday lessons: I shall be setting aside lesson days during Half Term & the Summer Break, dates to follow soon.
ABRSM Spring Term 2025 Exam Results: all exam results have been received and once again we have achieved truly excellent results, with all pupils achieving either a Merit & Distinction pass in their Associated Board exams. All results and Mark Sheets have been mailed to those who took their exam last term and results will be displayed on the NB in the hallway/reception.
Once again, very well done to all pupils, I do know and appreciate how hard you work to achieve these results.
To keep future standards high (and to maintain that 100% pass objective) we do have to be fully prepared in all areas of the exam syllabus (particularly with regard to scales & arpeggios, sight reading & aural). This will ensure success and protect you from the most exact or strictest of examiners. Please do have a look at my guidance notes (below).
ABRSM Summer 2025 Exams:
All Private Pupils now take their exam at Anteros Arts Centre.
For more information please visit: https://www.anterosfoundation.com/
Exams will take place from Monday 9th June until Saturday 12th July.
I shall apply for weekday exam dates during July – for pupils of school age only (but these are subject to availability and so may need to be late June). I would prefer to book your exam for you as this will ensure that all pupils are grouped together, making it possible for me to accompany you for your exam.
Adult pupils: If you do plan to take an ABRSM Grade this term I do ask that you book your own exam. This way, you be able to choose your own exam date when booking.
If you would like me to accompany you for your exam, I must ask that you do confirm (with ABRSM) that your exam will be between 9.00 am – 1.00 pm (approx.). Alternatively, you are welcome to arrange your own piano accompanist (I can assist with some recommended accompanists – who will charge for both rehearsal & accompanying for your exam).
Online booking commences on Tues 29th April – I shall enter my Saxophone & Flute pupils on FRIDAY 2nd May
PLEASE CONFIRM, BEFORE FRIDAY 2nd, IF YOU DO WISH ME TO ENTER YOU FOR YOUR EXAM THIS TERM
ABRSM EXAM PREPARATION
PLEASE DO READ MY CAREFULLY CONSTRUCTED EXAM NOTES BEFORE MAKING YOUR DECISION TO ENTER FOR YOUR EXAM THIS TERM – YOU DO NEED TO BE SURE THAT YOU ARE READY.
I shall speak with you during the first week of lessons regarding your next ABRSM exam – when to take this and how to prepare.
PIANO PUPILS & GRADE 8 WOODWIND ENTRIES
For ALL Piano pupils – you will need to enter for your exam directly with the ABRSM as I do not attend Piano exams (as I am not needed to accompany you for your exam on the day).
For my Grade 8 Woodwind (Saxophone & Flute) pupils, you will also need to apply for your exam directly with the ABRSM. I think that for your Grade exam you will need the very finest of Norfolk’s accompanists - such as David Neil Jones or David Dunnett. Sadly, we have lost Anne Duarte (who did accompany some of my pupils for exams and for many years owned & directed the wonderful St George’s Music Shop, with her husband Chris). They have recently left Norfolk and now live in Scotland.
ABRSM Grade 8 is the pinnacle of the learning process and so reaching for a Merit or Distinction pass should be the desired goal.
As ever, I shall guide you through this process and assist you to gain the result that you are most certainly able to achieve.
For my Norwich School pupils, exams for Trinity Term are set to take place at the Norwich School Music Department during the week of the 12th June - TBC. Please confirm at the beginning of term if you do wish to take your exam this Trinity term. The closing date for all exams at Norwich School is Friday 2nd May (this date may be a little flexible).
I am willing to enter my NS pupils directly with the NS Music Department and am willing to accompany you for your exam also.
ABRSM AURAL – EXAM PREPARATION
For Aural preparation I would recommend that you purchase the study booklet ‘Specimen Aural Tests’ (which comes with a CD) – this is available online from the ABRSM or Music Room: https://www.musicroom.com/. I would also advise you to get the excellent & user-friendly ABRSM ‘Aural Trainer’ App (Gr 1-5 & Gr 6-8).
For full information I would recommend that you visit the ABRSM website, look at the pages and videos and do be sure to look at the various Apps & resources that are now available. I would recommend that you also sign up to their mailing list for updates: https://gb.abrsm.org/en/
ABRSM EXAM PREPARATION, DISCOVERING MUSIC – MORE ON ABRSM LEARNING APPS: As you prepare for your exam I do need to stress that should know all of your scales & arpeggios and have a comprehensive understanding of the required Aural tests before you apply to take your exam.
You will also need to have your pieces & study prepared to at least pass standard (at the beginning of term). This coming term should be for revising & refining as well as for looking closely at sight-reading skills.
Once again, I would draw your attention to the excellent ABRSM Learning Apps. These are fun to use, are user-friendly and really do assist with your practise & preparation routine.
You can find these in any App Store, certainly for iPhone, or be guided by the link on the ABRSM website - via their ‘Learning & Teaching’ pages.
Music Copyright: Remember also that there is a very strict rule regarding actual copies of music used for the exam. Original published editions must be used (and not photocopies). For all information relating to the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music & exam requirements please visit the ABRSM website.
HOW TO PROGRESS IN YOUR MUSIC STUDIES & EXPERIENCE OF MUSIC
(PLEASE READ WHEN YOU HAVE TIME)
Music is a very special Artform & such a powerful means to express. It is also great fun! - particularly within the wonderful experience of Ensemble playing, which should be the goal of every musician, whatever the age or standard.
Music is also Science (exploring Mathematical principles & logic). Therefore, to reach any standard of performance in music, there does need to be a commitment to Discipline & Application. Avoiding these, or compromising certain areas of study, will produce a superficial understanding of music and will most certainly have an effect on our level of performance.
Music is good for the whole being – mind, body & spirit.
Listen - attend Concerts (whenever possible), watch (there is so much available on BBC4, BBC2 & Sky Arts – as well as on You Tube, Apple Music, Spotify & other streaming sites). These days it is so easy for you to explore & to discover – for you to be inspired by what you find & motivated to discover your own unique place within this endless landscape of Music.
There are many excellent programmes to be found on BBC Radio 3, which you can also download or discover anytime on BBC Sounds. I highly recommend Jess Gillam’s ‘This Classical Life’, Michael Berkeley’s ‘Private Passions’ and Soweto Kinch’s ‘Round Midnight’. For more information go to BBC Sounds and be willing to explore yourself... there is so much more!
Do aim to set a program, a clear Practice Schedule with set objectives for each session. Don’t avoid the disciplines of Scales, Arpeggios, Sight-Reading and Aural – which I shall introduce to your lessons and include within your Practice Planner. These will underpin all that you do in music – reading, sight-reading & all performance skills, including improvisation. Work on the set Studies that I aim to include in your weekly lessons. These will offer diversity of style and playing skills.
Practice Planner: This should be in the form of a visible planner or diary, so that you are reminded and encouraged to keep on progressing. I would encourage you to bring a small diary with you to lessons, write down key points and also RECORD key moments/areas of your lesson so that you can listen back and use each of the objectives set and demonstrations given (by me) during the lesson and weave these into your private practice.
If you would like to record sections of your lesson, do please bring your device with you to your lesson. I can then assist you to set this up and advise how best to get a good quality recording.
If you do record the lesson (or sections of this) then you can share this too (with family & friends). You will love to listen back and hear how you have moved forward, week by week and month by month. So, bring something to record onto – most mobile phones have Voice Memos on them now. As a pupil I used to record my lessons onto a Cassette – back in the day! I still have some of these can you believe?
ABRSM MUSIC THEORY – More Information Music Theory is called the ‘Science of Music’: You will see (on your Invoice) that I have (in most cases) included Music Theory as part of your weekly lesson program. This is of course your decision, but you are invited to include Music Theory along with Practical instruction.
I believe this will greatly assist what you are discovering in your playing experience (as you learn & progress in the practical skills of Music). Alongside Music Theory I shall be introducing more attention & focus on Aural & Sight-Reading skills.
Music Theory is essential for those wishing to go beyond Grade 5 Practical exams (and aim to reach up to Grade 8 standard of performance). Music Theory also helps in many ways to gain a greater understanding of music & will certainly assist those preparing for GCSE & A level Music exams.
At present Music Theory Exams and Music ‘Performance’ Grade Exams are all Online and so it is best to look on the ABRSM Website for latest information and exam dates.
ABRSM JAZZ EXAMS: In addition to Music Theory you can also qualify, in order to proceed to Grades 6-8, by taking and passing the Jazz Grade 5 practical exam. For some of my pupils this is a preferred option, perhaps to speed up the process.
As a bonus, by following the ABRSM Jazz Exam program, you do get to learn the language of Jazz with it’s wonderful and diverse repertoire and also discover the world of improvisation. I am equally at home and well versed in both Classical & Jazz traditions (as teacher & performer) and so willing and very able to assist you.
Summer Term starts on Saturday 3rd May
Our ensembles have become a community of players and have such fun each and every week!
Junior Saxology 9.00 am Saxophone ensemble – for those at the early stages of playing (Grade 1-4+)
Saxology 10.15 am Premier Saxophone ensemble - for the intermediate to advanced player (Grade 5-8+).
JazzWorld 11.30 am We are here for all aspiring Jazz musicians – for players of Saxophone, Trumpet, Trombone, Piano/Keyboard, Bass, Guitar, Drums, Percussion & Vocals.
Each of our ensembles are continuing to grow & develop, as demonstrated at our ‘Spring Concert’ at St Anne’s.
PLEASE PASS ON THE GOOD NEWS
WE ESPECIALLY WELCOME PLAYERS OF BRASS, BASS, PERCUSSION & GUITAR for Jazzology!
For more information please visit: https://www.SaxWorld.co.uk
Address Book/ /Pupil Information: Thank you for keeping me updated me with your contact details. Please let me reassure you that all pupil information is treated in the strictest confidence.
I look forward to seeing you soon.
My best wishes as ever,
David
A very Happy New Year to you and to your dear family.
I do hope that you had a wonderful Christmas and that you are now rested, refreshed & ready for the new term.
MAIN POINTS FOR SPRING TERM
Here’s some news & information for you, do please read this through and/or keep as a handy reference.
PRIVATE LESSONS: will commence on Monday 6th January. (Spring Term will end on Friday 4th April – last day of Private lessons). There are Holiday lessons this coming Friday 3rd & Saturday 4th January - these are Christmas/New Year holiday lessons and are now fully booked. Those attending will have received a separate email, giving times of lessons.
SAXWORLD & JAZZWORLD: Rehearsal sessions will commence on Saturday 11th January. All News, Dates & information will be sent to all members very soon.
For more information & updates please visit: http://www.SaxWorld.co.uk
SPRING CONCERT: Saturday 29th March (6.00 – 9.00 pm) Interval with shared buffet
St Anne’s ‘Crossroads’ Church, Colman Road, Norwich NR4 7HD
This will be another wonderful evening of music from our Soloists, SaxWorld & JazzWorld Ensembles
Do start thinking of which piece you might like to prepare and then perform at this event.
ABRSM WINTER TERM 2024 EXAM RESULTS: have all come in and once again we have achieved truly excellent results, with the majority of pupils being awarded either a Distinction or Merit pass. Very well done to all pupils, I do know and appreciate how hard you work to achieve these results.
To keep future standards high (and to maintain that 100% pass objective) we do have to be fully prepared in all areas of the exam syllabus (particularly with regard to scales & arpeggios, sight reading & aural). This will ensure success and protect you from the most exact or strictest of examiners.
ABRSM SPRING 2025 EXAMS: All Private Pupils are now taking their exams at the Anteros Arts Centre.
Spring term ABRSM exams will take place between 3rd March – 5th April 2025
Booking period is 21st January – 4th February
Piano Accompaniment for your Exam
In past years, when booking my pupils for their exams, I always managed to set a day where all exams could be arranged and so I would accompany my pupils all in one go. This was fine, even if I did need to reschedule some lessons later in the afternoon. I shall continue to book my younger pupils in this way, keeping most of my exams grouped together.
However, for my adult pupils, who still need piano accompaniment for their exam, it is better that you do book your exam directly with the ABRSM. This will assist you to book your exam on a day that works with your busy schedule, but of course it also means that I have a number of adult pupils spread across a number of days in any given term.
Due to my lesson commitments, I can ONLY accompany my adult pupils for exams during a weekday morning, up to 2.00 pm (at the very latest).
PLEASE CONFIRM, BEFORE WEDNESDAY 21st JANUARY, IF YOU DO WISH TO ENTER FOR YOUR EXAM THIS TERM.
For Norwich School pupils, who receive Private lessons with me, exams are set to take place at the Norwich School Music Department during the penultimate week of the School’s Lent term (week of the 24th March). Please confirm at the beginning of term if you do wish to take your exam this Spring/Lent term (including Jazz exams). The closing date for all exams at Norwich School is Friday 17th January (this date may be a little flexible – especially as there will be a new Music Coordinator at the helm).
I shall enter you for your exam through the NS Music Office as normal. Your exam fee will be added to your regular school fees.
AURAL PREPARATION I would highly recommend that you purchase the excellent study booklet (which comes with a CD) ‘Specimen Aural Tests’ - available online from the ABRSM or Music Room: https://www.musicroom.com/. I would also highly recommend downloading the ABRSM Aural Trainer App (Gr 1-5 & Gr 6-8) and also investigate other ABRSM Apps such as ones for Sight Reading and Practice Planning. You can find these in any App Store on most Phones.
For full information I would recommend that you visit the ABRSM website, look at the pages & helpful videos and also explore the various Apps & resources that are now available. I would recommend that you also sign up to their mailing list for updates: https://gb.abrsm.org/en/
ABRSM MUSIC THEORY (the ‘science’ of Music): You will see (on your Invoice) that I have (in most cases) included Music Theory as part of your weekly lesson program. This is of course your decision, but you are invited to include Music Theory along with Practical instruction. I believe this will greatly assist what you are discovering in your playing experience (as you learn & progress in the practical skills of Music).
Alongside Music Theory I shall be introducing more attention & focus on Aural & Sight-Reading skills.
Music Theory is essential for those wishing to go beyond Grade 5 Practical exams (and aim to reach up to Grade 8 standard of performance). Music Theory also helps in many ways to gain a greater understanding of music & will certainly assist those preparing for GCSE & A level Music exams.
Music Theory Exams and Music ‘Performance’ Grade Exams are all Online and so it is best to look on the ABRSM Website for latest information and exam dates: https://gb.abrsm.org/en/exam-booking/exam-dates-and-fees/
ABRSM JAZZ EXAMS: In addition to Music Theory (which I shall continue to recommend) you can also qualify, in order to proceed to Grades 6-8, by taking and passing the Jazz Grade 5 practical exam. For some of my pupils this is a preferred option, perhaps to speed up the process.
As a bonus, by following the ABRSM Jazz Exam program, you do get to learn the language of Jazz with it’s wonderful and diverse repertoire and also discover the world of improvisation. I am equally at home and well versed in both Classical & Jazz traditions (as teacher & performer) and so willing and very able to assist you.
All Jazz Exams now have to applied for INDIVIDUALLY online. Please visit the ABRSM Exams booking page:
https://gb.abrsm.org/en/exam-booking/exam-dates-and-fees/ - click the ‘Jazz’ link and follow the booking directions.
JAZZ PERFORMANCE GRADES
I am pleased to inform you that the ABRSM now include Jazz Grades within their ‘Performance Grades’ programme.
For lots of more information, pdf downloads & instructive videos, do visit:
https://www.abrsm.org/en-gb/instruments/jazz
For Spring Term Jazz examinations Online Booking opens on the 21st January (and closes 28 days before ABRSM Jazz exams take place. Jazz exams for Spring ’23 will take place between the 3rd March – 5th April 2024.
Due to low numbers of entries here in Norfolk it is likely that you will need to apply and take your exam in another region and location, such as Cambridge, Ipswich or Bury St Edmunds.
NORFOLK COUNTY MUSIC FESTIVAL (Monday 10th - Friday 21st March 2024) Established in 1925
Woodwind & Brass Day is on Wednesday 19th March at the Assembly House, with our adjudicator being Paul Harris.
If you are wishing to enter and to perform at the 2024 Music Festival I would ask that you go online and complete your entry form and submit this as soon as possible please. Closing date for entry was 30th November 2024.
For those who would like to consider performing in 2026 I would invite you to attend this year’s event so that you get more of an idea of the nature of the Festival and also the standard of performances.
In my opinion this remains the most prestigious event of its kind within this region. There is a competitive edge to the performances and public adjudication is not to everybody’s liking, but I do believe that there are great advantages to a) playing in public & b) being open to comments made by the Festival’s invited adjudicators (these written remarks should always be a means to assist & to encourage).
There are allocated accompanists for the Music Festival (full details in the Program) but I am prepared to accompany you if you prefer. Please discuss your intended repertoire (piece or pieces) with me as soon as possible.
Full details & contact information are available from the NCMF Website - https://norfolkmusic.org.uk/
NORFOLK YOUNG MUSICIANS COMPETITION 2025: This annual competition is open to post Grade 8 pupils, age 25 and under.
Once again this will take place at the John Innes Centre, Colney, Norwich on Sunday 12th January (performances will be between 10.00 am and 5.00 pm with prizes and awards being presented by this year’s visiting adjudicator at the end of the day). You are welcome to attend whichever session is suitable. Entry is free (there is a retiring collection, to support this unique event).
There are 7 prices to be awarded: 1st, 2nd & 3rd Cash Prize Awards, (4) Michael Badminton String Prize for the most promising string player, (5) Mrs E Sturgeon Piano Prize for the most promising Pianist, (6) Norfolk & Norwich Chamber Music Prize for the most promising Wind player and (7) the Jane Robinson Prize for Voice.
This year’s adjudicator is Joely Koos, Soloist & Principal Cello of the English Symphony Orchestra.
In past years a good number of my pupils have been awarded prizes at the NYM Competition, including three pupils winning the title of ‘Norfolk Young Musician’ (the most recent being Finlay McEwen - who is now a professional musician).
Other award winners have been Jasmine Smith – who has just completed 4 years of study at the Guildhall School of Music, Jonathan Jolly – who has now completed his three years reading Music at Fitzwilliam College, Cambridge and now into a two year Master’s Degree course at the Royal Conservatoire of Music in Cardiff, Reuben Selby – just completing his 3 years of study at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire and Michael Anning – now completing his 2nd year at the Royal Academy of Music (post-graduate study for a Masters Degree in Jazz Music Performance & Composition at the Royal Academy of Music, having been awarded a Scholarship by the RAM). Mike is being personally tutored & mentored by legendary saxophonist Tim Garland https://www.timgarland.com/
For this year’s competition my pupil Jack Smith (who is also a member of SaxWorld & JazzWorld) will be performing.
Some of you are preparing for Grade 8 and so you might wish to consider taking part sometime in the future – perhaps January 2026?
I do recommend that you make plans to attend this unique and prestigious Competition. You will thoroughly enjoy the music and will offer significant support to these young competitors who have worked so hard to reach this standard of performance. We can then start to plan & prepare for program for NYM 2026.
For more information please visit & follow the links https://www.academyofstthomas.com/mbtrust/
MUSIC ENSEMBLES
As you know I do advocate that every pupil might find a place within some kind of musical ensemble. To me this has to be one of the most rewarding experiences of being a musician, at whatever age and ability.
There are so many options that await the music student of any instrument. Thankfully we live in a County where Music & the Creative Arts are recognized & valued. These are supported by local government (despite recent budgets being severely cut) and through the dedication of those within the County Music Services (now called the Norfolk Music Hub – where I was an Associate Teacher for a number of years). There is a continuous program for the aspiring young musician here in Norfolk.
You will see that SaxWorld & JazzWorld are a part of this program and included on the Music Hub Ensembles web page:
https://www.norfolkmusichub.org.uk/site/music-ensembles-in-norfolk/
Do please have a look at the Music Hub website and see if there is something that would interest you. There are ensembles for pupils at most levels of ability and so you could journey through these as your technical and reading skills progress.
For many of you there are great opportunities for playing in an ensemble, band or an orchestra within your own school environment. This is not the situation for all however and so do please examine these options and speak with me so that we can discuss your personal objectives and preference. I will then do all that I can to assist you to discover the joy & fulfillment of making music with others within the right ensemble.
Norfolk Music Hub: http://www.norfolkmusichub.org.uk/site/
HALF TERM LESSONS: I do intend to offer lessons during Half term and will hold these Friday 21st February (9.00 am – 1.00 pm & 4.00 – 8.00 pm).
Half term break is one week long this term: 15th – 23rd February for most Schools.
Please feel free to book your half term lesson as soon as is convenient (these do tend to get booked up).
Finally, a BIG thank you for all of your messages, cards, gifts and home-baked items over the Christmas season! My family and I appreciated these greatly, you are very much a part of our Christmas celebrations through your kind gifts.
A very Happy & a Blessed New Year to you and to all the family.
I send you my best wishes for another excellent term and look forward to seeing you soon,
David (Dec/2024)
Hello again, I do hope that you have had a wonderful Summer and that you are rested, refreshed & well prepared for the coming term!
Here’s some News & Information for you - please keep as a handy reference.
MAIN POINTS FOR WINTER TERM
Lessons: will commence on Wednesday 4th September - and will end on Friday 20th December (last day of Private lessons). Norfolk County Schools term will also end on Friday 20th December.
Half Term will be from Saturday 26th Oct – Sunday 3rd Nov
SaxWorld & JazzWorld: Rehearsal sessions will commence on Saturday 14th September. News, Dates & information will be sent to all members very soon.
Half Term Lessons: I do intend to offer lessons during Half term and will hold these on Wednesday 30th October. Times & information to follow in my weekly news.
Please feel free to book your half term lesson as soon as is convenient (these do tend to get booked up).
ABRSM WINTER EXAMS 2024:
PRIVATE PUPILS: All Private exams place at Anteros Arts Centre.
If you do plan to take an ABRSM Grade this term I would prefer to book your exam for you - as this would ensure that all pupils are grouped together, making it possible for me to accompany you for your exam.
I would advise Pianists to apply directly to the ABRSM – as I am not needed to accompany you for your exam and so it would be more beneficial for you to go online and select whichever date is most suitable. I would advise that you do this as early as possible, so that you have greater choice of exam dates.
PREPARATION IS KEY: To keep future standards high (and to maintain that 100% pass objective) we do have to be fully prepared in all areas of the exam syllabus (particularly with regard to scales & arpeggios, sight reading & aural). Attending to each specific section of the exam syllabus will ensure success and protect you from the most exact or strictest of examiners.
Online booking commences on Monday 16th September and so I do need to know before that date if you are committed to taking your ABRSM Exam this term.
Exam dates are set for 4th November – 7th December. I shall apply for the latest date available but you should prepare your exam for an earlier date, should this be the only option available here in Norwich.
NORWICH SCHOOL pupils: Exams are set to take place at the Norwich School Music Department during the penultimate week of the School’s Michaelmas term (week of the 2nd December).
If you are receiving Private lessons with me and attending NS, you are still able to take your exam within the NS Music Department. I shall attend all of my pupils’ exams at NS and accompany on piano, if requested to do so.
Please confirm at the beginning of term if you do wish to take your exam during Michaelmas Term (including Jazz exams). The closing date for all NS practical music exams is Friday 20th September (this date may change and so I shall keep you informed).
ABRSM EXAM INFORMATION & TRAINING VIDEOS: For full information I would highly recommend that you visit the excellent ABRSM website - examine the helpful pages & videos, keep a regular eye on the website changes and sign up to their mailing list for updates: https://www.abrsm.org/en-gb
ABRSM Music Theory: essential for those wishing to go beyond Grade 5 Practical exams (and aim to reach up to Grade 8 standard of performance). Music Theory also helps in many ways to gain a greater understanding of music, as listener & performer, & will certainly assist those preparing for GCSE & A level Music exams.
I would advise all of my pupils to consider studying Music Theory, alongside your Practical Music lessons. Let me know if this is of interest & we can look at how best to proceed.
ABRSM Music Theory exams: have moved to Online for the present and so for more information and guidance regarding booking your own exam please go the ABRSM Website for information and guidance.
Summer & Christmas Concerts: Last term ended with a magnificent ‘Summer Concert’ at St Anne’s ‘Crossroads’ Church. We had a packed house with each performance receiving such enthusiastic applause!
Thank you to my Support Team for working with me to put this event together and for all that you do throughout each and every term. Thank you to all who attended & supported our players, you are such a great encouragement.
Once again, a BIG thank you to our wonderful community of helpers, cooks & bakers, who lovingly prepare and treat us to a banquet for each of our Concert Intervals. You will have noticed that we have now extended our Interval moments for these Concert events, to give you time to mix and mingle and to take your time over your chosen refreshments.
I am pleased to let you know that I have booked our next three Concerts at St Anne’s, as we feel that this has become ‘home’ for our SaxWorld & JazzWorld rehearsal sessions and also for our seasonal events.
We may well add in other events on occasions, in various locations, but we shall return to St Anne’s for our end of term Concerts – the next one being our Christmas Concert:
‘St Anne’s Crossroads Church’ on Saturday 7th December (6.00 – 9.00 pm)
More details to follow regarding our Concert & Shared Seasonal Buffet soon.
New Lesson Fees/Lesson Agreements: New Lesson Agreement for 2024/25.
A new Lesson Agreement for 2024/2025 is attached for you. I would ask that you read this through please. There is no need to respond or sign anything – unless your contact details have changed.
You will see that, for the first time since before the Covid-19 pandemic, I have increased my fees this year – by just £1 per lesson.
I have avoided any change in fees these last few years, due to the pandemic and current economic situation here in the UK. However, with the constant rise in all business expenses, this change in lesson fees has become necessary. I am committed to offer the finest tuition and professional service in return.
Gifts & Cards: I really would like to thank you for your various gifts, cards & messages each term. I am truly grateful for these, particularly when you go to the trouble of preparing something of your own making or design. You can be sure that I do treasure these items and do keep a good number of them – most in fact! Some of these are on display in my music room, as you know.
Address Book/ /Pupil Information: Thank you for keeping me updated me with your contact details. Please let me reassure you that all pupil information is treated in the strictest confidence.
Have a good weekend and I look forward to seeing you soon.
My best wishes to you for another good term,
David
Hello again & welcome to Summer term! I do hope that you had an enjoyable & refreshing Easter break.
There are one or two dates that I shall be away for during this term – mainly for concerts & recordings. I shall offer more details of Concerts that I am performing in (especially nearby) in my Weekly News.
The first of these is on Monday 22nd April, at CRBC in Ipswich. There are other events also, such as the Royal Norfolk Show (Weds 26th June) and there are two Monday Bank Holiday’s in May: on the 6th & 27th May (the second BH Monday occurs during Half Term week, fortunately).
Please do consider replacing any missed or lost lessons (due to these or any other dates).
Here’s my News & information for Summer Term:
1. Private Lessons: will commence on Monday 15th April. Summer Term will end on Friday 19th July – last day of private lessons. I shall be setting aside lesson days during Half Term & the Summer Break, dates to follow.
2. ABRSM Spring Term 2024 Exam Results: all private exam results have been received and once again we have achieved truly excellent results, with all pupils achieving Pass, Merit & Distinction in their Associated Board exams. All results and Mark Sheets have been mailed to those who took their exam last term.
Once again, very well done to all pupils, I do know and appreciate how hard you work to achieve these results.
To keep future standards high (and to maintain that 100% pass objective) we do have to be fully prepared in all areas of the exam syllabus (particularly with regard to scales & arpeggios, sight reading & aural). This will ensure success and protect you from the most exact or strictest of examiners. Please do have a look at my guidance notes (below).
3. ABRSM Summer 2024 Exams:
All Private Pupils now take their exam at Anteros Arts Centre. This is an excellent venue for your exam.
For more information please visit: https://www.anterosfoundation.com/
Exams will take place from Monday 10th June until Saturday 13th July.
I shall apply for weekday exam dates during July (but these are subject to availability and so may need to be late June).
If you do plan to take an ABRSM Grade this term I would prefer to book your exam for you as this will ensure that all pupils are grouped together, making it possible for me to accompany you for your exam.
If you do prefer to book your own exam then I must ask you to arrange your own piano accompanist please.
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