A rare chance for beginners to pick up and play the small but mighty melodeon (aka squeezebox) with expert guidance from tutor Mel Biggs. Drawing on traditional English dance tunes, the workshop introduces learning the instrument left hand first to develop effective rhythmical control and coordination, before learning your first tune with both hands (the bit most people find tricky at first!). This workshop is for anyone interested in
English folk music, folk dance, or trying a squeezebox for the first time. You don’t need to read music notation, and no previous melodeon or folk music experience is required, but a basic knowledge of music (scales, chords, time signatures) will help. This workshop is for melodeons (squeezebox that plays different notes on the squeeze and on the pull for the same button), instruments tuned in D/G with a minimum of 2-rows and 8-basses.
Double check yours is in DG tuning via this handy post put together by tutor Mel Briggs: https://melbiggsmusic.co.uk/2022/05/25/know-what-type-of-melodeon-you-have/"
If you don’t have your own instrument some loan boxes will be available on the day. Limited number available, so please contact us at education@stables.org if you need to borrow one. (The follow-on workshop Melodeon beginners Part 2 is on Saturday 1 March.)
Mel Biggs is a musician, performer and melodeon teacher based in Derbyshire, England. Renowned the world over for her perceptive, patient and mindful manner in teaching groups and individuals, Mel is a leading light in the world of melodeon teaching, both on and off-line.
Refreshments:
Tea & coffee is provided.
Participants on a full day workshop or course should bring a packed lunch and other snacks.
