Band Classes
Katie Greenwood
"Music isn't just learning notes and playing them, you learn notes to play to the music of your soul."
Our Band Classes are an exciting and dynamic musical journey designed to elevate your musical skills and performance abilities. These weekly classes, held in 12-week terms, bring together a group of 2 drummers, 2 bassists, 3 guitarists, 2 keys players, and 2 vocalists, creating a diverse ensemble that fosters collaboration and creativity.
Throughout each term, participants embark on a musical exploration of 9 songs spanning various genres. The goal is not to learn the songs in class but to learn them at home, arriving ready to collaboratively workshop and refine the pieces during the weekly sessions. The emphasis is on performance, ensuring that each class provides a substantial amount of playing time for every participant.
Beyond honing musical skills, our Band Classes prioritize the development of essential band-related competencies. Participants learn effective rehearsal techniques, musical communication, and the art of transforming a song into a unique, captivating performance.
The curriculum is thoughtfully structured to progressively increase in difficulty, ensuring that there is always a new challenge for musicians of all ability levels.
To maintain a supportive and harmonious learning environment, each class is carefully composed with participants of roughly equal ability. Additionally, special classes after school are dedicated to younger musicians, tailoring the experience to their unique needs.
Join our Band Classes to not only become a proficient musician but also to gain invaluable insights into the art of collaboration, communication, and live performance.
Band Term Dates
Summer Term 2024
Wednesdays or Thursdays > 17th/18th April to 10th/11th July (Half Term > 29th/30th May) > 12 Week Term
End of Term Performances > 18:30 to 21:30 on Sunday 14th July 2024 at The Sovereigns, Woking, GU22 7QQ
Autumn Term 2024
Tuesdays, Wednesdays or Thursdays > 10th/11th/12th September to 3rd/4th/5th December (Half Term > 29th/30th/31st October) > 12 Week Term
End of Term Performances > Sunday 8th December 2024, Location TBC
Spring Term 2025
Tuesdays, Wednesdays or Thursdays > 7th/8th/9th January to 1st/2nd/3rd April (Half Term > 18th/19th/20th February) > 12 Week Term
End of Term Performances > Sunday 6th April 2025, Location TBC
Summer Term 2025
Tuesdays, Wednesdays or Thursdays > 22nd/23rd/24th April to 15th/16th/17th July (Half Term > 27th/28th/29th May) > 12 Week Term
End of Term Performances > Sunday 20th July 2025, Location TBC
FAQs
Is there a minimum skill level for participants?
We recommend participants to have at least a basic level of control on their instrument, typically equivalent to Grade 3 or 4 proficiency and above. If you're new to the school, we aim to meet with you beforehand to assess your musical ability and tailor your placement within a group that aligns with your skill level and musical goals.
What musical equipment is required for the class?
All essentials for our band classes are provided, with the exception of electric or bass guitars, which participants are required to bring. However, a drum kit and keyboard are readily available within the class, ensuring that every musician has access to the necessary equipment for an immersive and enjoyable musical experience.
What genres of music will be covered during the class?
Genres covered in our band classes include, but are not limited to, Rock, Pop, Funk, Blues, Jazz, Latin, Reggae, and Fusion. This diverse selection ensures a rich and varied musical experience, allowing participants to explore a wide range of styles and develop a versatile and well-rounded musical skill set.
How are songs approached in the class – is it more about learning or refining?
Our band classes focus on refining songs that participants are expected to learn before each weekly session, maximizing the effectiveness of our time together. This isn't a place for initial instrument learning; instead, it serves as a platform for musicians to refine their skills, applying the knowledge gained in practical and collaborative ways.
Are there opportunities for live performances or showcases?
At the culmination of each term, participants have the exciting opportunity to showcase their progress in an exhilarating end-of-term gig. Having the opportunity to perform the songs to a live audience marks the culmination of your hard work and another significant step in your musical journey. The ending of one chapter, but the beginning of another.
Will there be opportunities to explore multiple instruments?
Participants can sign up for one instrument only, allowing each musician to concentrate on their chosen discipline. We want you to see improvement on your selected instrument over the 12-week term, emphasizing the importance of utilizing every moment to enhance your musical proficiency.
If you're interested in joining our band classes, then why not get in touch with us?
Get in touch. 😊
Joining a band class provides a unique and enriching musical experience, fostering skill development, collaborative learning, and the thrill of performing diverse genres in a supportive environment.