Early start for multi-instrumentalists
Children in central Warwickshire as young as eight are adding several strings to their bow by learning several musical instruments at once.
The youngsters are part of a group based at the Central Warwickshire Music Centre, which is run by Warwickshire County Council’s County Music Service.
The group meets weekly and concentrates on early music – dating back to 1300. It allows the children, who often already are able to play two instruments, such as violin and recorder to grade 2 standard, the chance to try something unusual such as a crumhorn, rebec, harp or renaissance recorder.
Sue Mock said: “This group has flourished and stretched the imagination of the children taking part. It has given them the opportunity to experiment with a different instrument – perhaps one in the same ‘family’. This is a great way of showing them the different possibilities of music making and encouraging them to sustain their interest in playing, especially playing independent parts within an ensemble. This group has recently taken part in a workshop with the Harvey Early Music Ensemble from New York, the County Youth Waits, and the various Viol Consorts run by Jacqui Robertson - Wade and Alison Kinder for the County Music Service”
The group meets in term time at the music centre, which is based at Kenilworth School, and serves children aged between 8 and 13. A weekend workshop is being planned for the summer term, and anyone interested in taking part or joining the group should call Sue on 01926 863208 or 07901 700008.