Teaching Week, St Audries Bay     September 2008

This was a new venture for EMF (Eastbourne Music Festivals), ably organised as ever by John and Jackie Romero and designed to provide a longer and more relaxed experience than the weekend festivals which are necessarily frenetic for nigh on 18 hours out of every 24. This plan worked well and meant there was plenty of time to socialise and arrange impromptu get togethers if people wished to. There is the option to stay half board or self-catering so it was good to have complimentary tea breaks where everyone could meet. 

The Accordion Shop was there for three days with a wonderful selection of instruments and accessories. There was a large range of music available from Trevani who was there until Tuesday evening. We appreciated the opportunity to browse and buy. 

Daily seminars covered a range of styles and techniques. Gary Blair gave two Scottish workshops full of hints and tips on ornaments, bellows shakes and repeated notes which helped us appreciate why we do not sound like Gary! This was a chance to play a few good tunes, especially the beautiful Heidi’s Waltz – I wish I’d written that. Angie Lukins led four jolly Folk and Barn Dance seminars putting us through our paces with a good selection of tunes which culminated in an entertaining concert on Thursday evening. Gennaro Fiondella worked hard with the mixed ability orchestra. He had just four sessions and yet managed to achieve a polished performance of three pieces – well done Gerry. 

The wonderful Harry Hussey led three jazz seminars which were much enjoyed. Harry explained how the basic elements of jazz can be changed and demonstrated with simple tunes; how to get from A to B using riffs, how to construct a 12 bar blues and worked towards improvising a blues. He also led the guest busking sessions every evening in the bar, but it never stops there as Harry can almost always be found in the bar jamming with anyone willing or playing requests. He did mysteriously disappear for a short time on Wednesday evening. Suffice to say I have classified information but will keep it to myself (FOR NOW). Be nice to me Harry or I will spill the beans and reveal the secrets of what went on in Shed No 108!! John Romero kept busy with four Electronic and Midi workshops. Too technical for me but in the first session he described midi channels and gave an overview of the various systems available. It soon became obvious that people have different requirements and so subsequent sessions were geared to individual needs. Boxes were ‘operated’ on, knobs fiddled with, wires tangled and a lot of muttering went on. A number of technical problems were sorted and everyone was happy.

Pearl Adriano arrived on Wednesday evening and if anyone was flagging her arrival lifted spirits to the sky. Pearl gave two excellent seminars which were useful for all standards and abilities. She covered many aspects of technique all underpinned by correct use and control of the bellows and ended each session with a fun play that everyone could join in. Now we can all boast that we have ‘performed’ part of The William Tell Overture with Pearl. I had to include the definition of a musical snob – one who hears this overture without thinking of the Lone Ranger.

Every evening there were concerts given by the artists plus a guest concert. Gary, Gerry, John and Pearl were all fantastic. The list of repertoire played is too long to write here but it was ambitious, demanding and varied – and very well received. Two birthdays were celebrated during the week. Alex reached the grand old age of five and there was, of course, cake and a rollicking game of Pass the Parcel. Then Harry reached the grand old age of many, many fives (and a four) which meant more cake and another game of Pass the Parcel. A cause for concern is that we all thoroughly enjoyed this competitive game; there was even a spot of foul play!

To sum up, a week of music and laughter with friends and a chance to indulge in our favourite hobby. My only personal disappointment was that Ron would not let me scrub his back! John has promised to run the event next year and has many exciting plans. All he needs is YOUR support. See you there.

Rene Mairis,  Isle of Wight