This summer I attended the Irish Recorder and Viol Course, which takes place near Drogheda, just north of Dublin, in a lovely big house, An Grianan ("the sunny place") owned by the Irish Countrywomen's Association. I went with my mum (Doris Willis) and we had a wonderful time. Each day started with a session of viol consort playing, after coffee there was a choice of larger-scale music, a break in the afternoon, then non-permanent groups before high tea. The evening offers a choir and then massed playing. The tutors include the indefatigable Philip Thorby, recorder players Marion Scott and Emma Murphy and viol players Marion Doherty-Hayden and Ibi Aziz. There's a sandcastle competition, a ceilidh, and a final informal concert.
Highlights for me - I took along the music for Buxtehude's Laudate Pueri Dominum for 2 sopranos, 6 viols and bass continuo which I picked up a few years ago and have never had the chance to sing/play. An ideal opportunity! It's a fantastic piece, guaranteed to lift your spirits (you'll find it on Spotify).
The food is wonderful - accommodation very comfortable - everyone is warmly welcomed by both staff and course members. Highly recommended!
Highlights for me - I took along the music for Buxtehude's Laudate Pueri Dominum for 2 sopranos, 6 viols and bass continuo which I picked up a few years ago and have never had the chance to sing/play. An ideal opportunity! It's a fantastic piece, guaranteed to lift your spirits (you'll find it on Spotify).
The food is wonderful - accommodation very comfortable - everyone is warmly welcomed by both staff and course members. Highly recommended!
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