Kath with the cakes
Today we held our fifth Musical Bite of the season and did our best to warm up the coldest day of the year so far! 20 musicians of all ages and abilities took part in Cathi and Graham Smith's Woodwind workshop in the church and the hall. Although the sun was shining brightly, it was so cold outside that not many people ventured out into the high street, so we didn't get a large number of people popping in for refreshments during the morning, though the musicians made good work of the cakes and hot drinks.
Graham's group in the hall
Cathi and Graham split the group into two for the first half of the workshop, with the beginners going into the hall (which was warmer than the church) to play with Graham along to some backing tracks, whilst the more experienced players stayed in the church and rehearsed 3 pieces together. After their tea break all the players came together to rehearse 1 piece, which Cathi had arranged for musicians of all abilities (there were easy and harder parts).
Cathi's group in the church
We ran the keyboard raffle again (thanks to Ellie and Dave for keeping it going) while Fiona, Nina, Jean and Kath kept the hot drinks flowing and served a wide choice of cakes to regular supporters and newcomers alike. Kieran spent some of the morning babysitting the infant of one flautist who had brought her baby daughter along to listen to the music, and Lesley and Dai wrote and put up signs and helped with all sorts of odd jobs.
Well deserved refreshment break
At 12 noon David S (who had co-ordinated everything beforehand) was able to join us to hear the mini concert in which the woodwind players demonstrated what they had learned during the morning and the audience was very appreciative.
Woodwind mini recital
We raised a very pleasing £240.60 for the organ fund from this Musical Bite. I'd like to thank everyone who participated in making it such an enjoyable event, especial Cathi and Graham, David for organising us and all the musicians who were so keen to play.
Woodwind mini recital
Woodwind mini recital
Hi, this was indeed, fun – and the coldest place I have played since playing for outdoor football games in the US in the marching band while on the bleechers! Made it all an adventure – and thanks to the music organizers for choosing a good variety of challenge in the music. And thanks to David for the other organization!
Thanks very much for these workshops,it’s great to have such a variety and kind of the musicians to give their time to lead them. The fundraising organisation is impressive and it’s good to see that it’s going so well.