FREE WORKSHOPS will be available starting 17th May to anyone who wants to learn any band instrument - Don't delay apply today!! Complete beginners, those who have played for only a short time, and those that are rusty may apply. Three 2 hour consecutive sessions will provide basic technique and music reading and exercises for the rusty to get back to playing. These will be run in association with Signet Music who will provide instruments for rent. The beginners will then have the opportunity to form a Starters Band. Others will be placed, after informal assessment into either the Intermediate or Main Bands, dependent on standard.

"Have you ever watched a musician playing a brilliant piece of music and thought, "How do they do that?" Have you ever wanted to play an instrument yourself but never had the opportunity? Do you feel that music is a closed book to you, something that other people understand but you don't? Do you fancy having a go yourself?  Well, NOW's your chance because a FREE series of workshops led by Andrew Bassey are being run in Northampton. I went to the first workshop last week. I'm a total beginner, have zero technique, and can read music only a tiny bit. I'd been messing about on my son's school clarinet, trying to teach myself the basics. I wondered why all I got was a series of high-pitched squeaks, why I didn't seem to have enough breath for all the notes and why I didn't seem able to read the music and watch my fingers at the same time. Within the first five minutes of Andrew's workshop, I'd learnt half a dozen things! I found out where I was going wrong, what all that squeaking was about and, thankfully, how to stop it... I really had loads of fun and can't wait for the next session. If you've always wanted to play, but are uncertain about where to start, start with Andrew's workshop. Loads of fun - guaranteed!"

 Review by Donna Lauren-Morgan (41)

Why not join Donna, come along and have a go? These classes are open to any age, but you MUST book in advance. (those enquiring will be contacted and put on a waiting list and the classes will start when sufficient numbers apply) Those who attend will be invited to join the beginner band at the appropriate time (typically 4-6 sessions).