Class Descriptions

Renaissance Band

This group truly brings to life the sound of a Renaissance Band with capped reeds, harps, viols, sackbut, percussion and recorders (of course!). Any period instrument is welcome! Do you play psalter? Serpent? Dulcian? Bring it! All levels of players welcome.

Vocal Ensemble with instrumental accompaniment

Anyone who enjoys singing from the early music repertoire, is encourage to join the Vocal Ensemble!
Instrumentalists provide period accompaniment. Recorder, flute & viol welcome. Instrumentalists should be Intermediate 2 and above)

Baroque Sonata Ensemble

A very accessible class for players at all levels wanting to learn more about baroque recorder sonatas. Students may play, as they wish, but the focus is on the music, not the player.

Baroque Trio Sonatas

Taught in a Master Class style, this class is for Alto recorder, Baroque Flute, and Viol continuo musicians comfortable playing one on a part.
Music from the standard Baroque Trio literature will be assigned and sent to you ahead of time.
Limited number of spaces available, Pre-enrollment required (Intermediate 2 and above)

English Country Dancing

Finish the evening with a dance. Of course, we have live music! Join the band or join the dancers. All dances are taught and called. If you love to dance, you must join us! If you have never gotten to try dancing before, here is your chance!
Join the band with your choice of instrument (Band musicians are most comfortable if Level 2+)

Playing with Harpsichord

Your chance to play music with harpsichord accompaniment provided by our excellent staff harpsichordist.
Accompaniment available for the Ad Hoc concert.
Bring your own music and use the time to prepare for workshop performances or just to have fun playing.
Sign-up sheet for time slots posted at the workshop. (other teachers are understanding if you must miss a part of their class)

Truly Contemporary Music

Contemporary works composed especially for recorder ensemble. (Intermediate 2 and above)

Try a new instrument! (instruments generously loaned by workshop students)

Intro to Viols: Try A Viol ! Give this wonderful instrument a try under the guidance of a delightful teacher. You may fall in love. Most of the workshop viol players started with this class way back when.
Intro to Harp: Try A Harp ! Have you always wanted to try playing harp? Here is your chance!

Understanding Renaissance Dance Music

In this class we’ll talk about what makes music "danceable", We'll look at rhythms, tempi, & what the dances look & feel like in the body. Pavans, galliards, & voltas, oh, my! And yes, bring an instrument to play!

Ad hoc student concert