I don’t know if someone has already posted this in the past. I can’t find a thread for it. There is a whistle course with Marc Duff at Sabhal Mor Ostaig on Skye in the summer. It would be great if there could be a good attendance. Marc is a great tutor and Sabhal Mor is a wonderful place to go and study. Here is the info from the website (http://www.smo.uhi.ac.uk):
Whistle & Bodhran (Marc Duff)
Dates: 18 July to 22 July 2005
Tutor: Marc Duff
Whistle: Monday-Thursday
Bodhran: Friday
If you wish to take part in the whistle class (Monday-Thursday) only, the cost is £100. Whistle and bodhran (Monday-Friday) costs £125.
Experience required to take part in course: Suitable for improving beginners to intermediate.
Teaching style used: A combination of teaching by ear and a simple to follow numbering system for whistle, and easy to read rhythm charts for bodhran. Ability to read music is not necessary but sheet music will be provided if requested.
What to expect on the course: The four-day whistle course will concentrate on improving playing skills in different styles of Celtic music, particularly from the tradition of West coast piping, East coast and Shetland fiddle and the Irish tin whistle. Emphasis will be placed on ornamentation and interpretation to bring out the best in these different musical styles. The one-day bodhran workshop will concentrate on the accompaniment of different tunes i.e. reel, jig, strathspey, as well as song.
Materials/Instruments needed: High or low whistle in the key of D. Bodhran & stick- if you do not have a bodhran, please let us know and we may to able to get you one for the day.
Preparation for the course: Learn some tunes from the styles mentioned, particularly the Scottish styles.
Suitable for children? No
Information on Tutor: Marc Duff was awarded the 1980 Hannan-Clark prize by Trinity College of Music for gaining the highest mark in the performance part of his Grade 8 exam. He graduated from the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in 1985. He has recorded and toured extensively as a member of Capercaillie, as well as presenting workshops at many festivals. Since leaving the band in 1995, Marc has recorded and performed with over 30 bands and artists as well as teaching regularly for organisations such as Falkirk Council, Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama, and Get Reel.
Thanks,
Alistair