Devon Music Service will be delighted to welcome the renowned composer John Pitts into the county during October to lead a series of exciting recorder workshops for teachers and children. John's series Recorder from the Beginning has sold 3 million copies world-wide!

These practical workshops will be ideal for teachers who either do some recorder work already, or have some knowledge of music notation and want to find out how to maximise the use of recorders in their schools.

Dates: - 11 October, 15 October, 16 October, 17 October and 18 October

John will introduce a number of topics using many of his published works to demonstrate a whole range of techniques and ideas. Copies of the works will be distributed and groups will be invited and encouraged to participate.

Topics to be covered will include:

• repertoire,  including  rounds,  duets,  blues,  pops,  shows, classical and traditional items,  ideal  for class use, concerts,  festivals and  Christmas
• exploring different types of accompaniment including pitched and unpitched percussion, use of  ostinatos , pentatonic material and chime-bar chords
• how to integrate recorder playing with classroom singing and instrumental activities
• engaging in ‘Wider Opportunities’, also identifying/maximizing opportunities in the National Curriculum Schemes of Work
• beginners, starting a group, using the basic tutor books plus CD’s

John Pitts’ series Recorder from the Beginning has sold 3 million copies world-wide ! A newly revised and full-colour edition of the 3 beginner books with new CD’s and Teacher Books was introduced recently and some of  the course will feature this.  In addition to the method books for both descant and treble recorders, there are 3 books of graded descant Duets, plus Blues, Rags and Boogies and Pops and Shows. (both with accompaniment CDs.)  The popular Christmas Songbook combines voices with recorders, and Around the World features music from 40 countries. Ensemble music includes Descant and Treble Duets, a collection of Trios for descant, treble and tenor, and a book of Quartets  for descant, treble, tenor and bass recorders. Concert Pieces, a new treble recorder repertoire book with CD appeared in  2006. John  also contributed to Music Medals , the new assessment scheme introduced by ABRSM.

Numerous handouts will also be distributed during the workshops. Participants will be asked to bring their own recorders where possible, though some instruments will be available for loan.

It is hoped that an exhibition and sale of music materials will also be provided by a local supplier.