flautist Stephen Clark and pianist Ashley Beauchamp

Absolute Classics Concert Review

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Absolute Classics Concert Review ~ November 2018

Having flown in from Australia on the morning of the first concert, flautist Stephen Clark really was a “Super Man” in his delivery of a spectacular recital with pianist, Ashley Beauchamp. The pair gave four varied concerts that took inspiration from all over the world, linking the famous flute repertoire with arrangements of violin works and new and vibrant contemporary compositions.

The duo enhanced the performances with witty repartee that made the concerts completely accessible for all those attending.

On Friday morning, Stephen and Ashley generously gave their time in support of Absolute Classics’ education programme and worked with over 150, S2 & S3 pupils at Annan Academy.

Principal teacher of music, Mr Brand said:

“The workshops were incredibly accessible and well lead by Stephen and Ashley who gave instructive comment on both the music performed and life as a professional musician. Not only did this provide an inspirational cultural experience for our students, it contributed to our work in
Developing the Young Workforce (DYW) and employability skills. The feedback from both students and staff was overwhelmingly positive.”


www.absoluteclassics.co.uk

The Fish Cross Tree

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As you are all aware the tree has been causing lots of problems in this area for months now ( never mind the tree what about the barriers) the roots have been lifting the paving slabs therefore causing a slips trips and falls hazard.

In desperation I think a solution being thought about is to replace the tree and use a tree pit to curtail both growth of tree and more importantly roots.

What do you all think remembering in this day and age health and safety is paramount – would a tree seat help covering up some slabs.

Lets have some thoughts before a decision is made

Absolute Classics - Annan Academy - Atmospheres recording session

Absolute Classics Education Programme – Immerse

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Warning – this is not virtual!

For three years Annan based music charity, Absolute Classics has been working with local young people on a composition project focussed on games music.

The project, IMMERSE, was born out of Absolute Classics’ work mentoring young people from Dumfries & Galloway in the creation of original compositions and video games soundscapes. Professional composer, Luci Holland was brought to the region to mentor the young participants, using classical compositional techniques to help express the young participants musical ideas.

On Sunday the 11th of November the grand finale will take place in Glasgow at the Centre for Contemporary Arts, where the newly orchestrated compositions will be performed. It is not just an ordinary concert either… it is a live game with a narrative, a journey into the
Cairngorms, mysterious happenings… and an interactive element where you get to decide which way the concert goes next.

Absolute Classics’ education manager, Narelle Freeman has been truly inspired by the whole project;

“This has been an exciting and terribly creative experience. Additional benefits of the project have been to provided these young composers with an opportunity to shadow and be mentored by our team of creative professionals in the production of an event on a world-class stage.”

And one participant added:

“I really thought this experience was amazing. It allowed me to create something of my own that I never thought I’d have the ability to create. Composing music is something that seems so inaccessible and only for the select few, yet this project has really made me believe the opposite. Even if you think you could never create your own music, I definitely think this process makes it possible for everyone and I would encourage anyone who gets the chance, to do so.”

Immerse will take place in Glasgow at the Centre for Contemporary Art on Sunday the 11th of November – for further info see:
https://www.cca-glasgow.com/programme/absolute-classics-immerse

Absolute Classics October Concert at Annan Academy

Absolute Classics Concert Review

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Absolute Classics Concert Review ~ October 2018

Last week, Swedish pianist Martin Sturfält introduced Absolute Classics’ audiences to a style of thematic programming as individual as the musician himself. Performing four concerts of over four days across the region beginning with an evening concert at Annan Academy, Martin’s first programme gave a fascinating incite into the way in which composers throughout history have taken direct inspiration from J.S.Bach. Eloquently he framed each work, giving historical reference of their relation to the great composer and cleverly managing to include works by the Scandinavian composers Sjögren and Nielsen, all in an accessible and enjoyable format.

With intellect and precision, Martin’s second programme of the week spoke to those who yearned for something more familiar. The music of Schubert and Chopin filled the air with graceful swathes of harmonious resonance. A true feast for the soul.

Join us next month for the 3rd instalment of the Absolute Classics season. The internationally renowned Fournier Trio will perform a selection of well known works, including pieces by Beethoven, Brahms, and the famous ‘Dumky’ trio by Dvořák.

The Trio will begin their regional tour at Annan Academy on the evening of Thursday 15th November.

www.absoluteclassics.co.uk