ISM Teachers Get Rhythm

02 August 2004

Movers and Shakers, a seminar for instrumental and vocal teachers devised by the Incorporated Society of Musicians, will take place at the University of Westminster on London’s Regent Street, just north of Oxford Circus, on Saturday 2 October 2004.

Describing the themes of the seminar, Sheila Gaskell, ISM Private Teachers Section Warden for 2004-05, who will be chairing the day, says:

'Rhythm is a vital part of our every day lives. We all have a heartbeat. Walking, running, breathing, speaking, singing – all need rhythm. Having the ability to grasp a sense of pulse and to feel and play rhythms accurately is fundamental to being a musician and to musical learning. Yet many people find this difficult.

‘Through talks and practical workshops, this seminar will provide fresh ideas and perspectives for developing our innate rhythmic abilities and help all musicians and their pupils make the most of their inner metronome.’

Contributors include:

Pam Wedgwood, the musician, teacher, composer and author of many well-known teaching series, considering some of the rhythmic aspects of writing for young instrumentalists;

voice coach Jackie Roxborough and percussionist Chrys Blanchard, exploring with participants how to free the power of the voice through body and vocal rhythm and stress release;

Christine Brown, private teacher and a former Warden of the ISM Private Teachers Section, considering various approaches to sight-reading, including the notation of rhythm;

Nicola Gaines, leading participants in a practical workshop where they can test their footwork in the rhythms of baroque dances.

The cost is £35 for ISM members, £10 for ISM Student members, and £55 for non-members. For more information about Movers and Shakers, and for booking form, download the conference brochure in PDF format here, or contact ISM Head Office, tel: 020 7629 4413, fax: 020 7408 1538, email: membership@ism.org. The closing date for bookings is Wednesday 22 September 2004.

Ends 06/2004

Note to Editors: The Incorporated Society of Musicians, founded in 1882, is the UK’s professional body for musicians. It aims to promote the art of music and uphold the honour and interests of the musical profession by protecting the interests of musicians, raising professional standards, and providing legal advice and other benefits to its members. Its 5,000 members include performers, teachers, composers, conductors, organists, writers and others involved in professional musical work. The Private Teachers Section is the ISM’s 2,000-strong specialist group for self-employed musicians who run independent teaching practices from their own premises: it holds conferences and seminars from time to time on topics of current interest.

Contact: Alison Pickard/Fiona MacLeod, tel: 020 7629 4413.