Master classes will be a component of Powell River Festival of Performing Arts again this year.
The sessions are open to everyone at no cost, and are not reserved for those participating in the festival, according to festival committee member Jill Ehgoetz.
“A master class or workshop gives everyone the opportunity for instruction on a less-formal basis,” said Ehgoetz, “with the adjudicator whose expertise on a variety of topics can be explored and shared.”
Adjudicator Alan Matheson will be in Powell River for band and instrumental sessions at Max Cameron Theatre, beginning Monday, February 22.
“A master class is an excellent and interactive setting for musicians to learn not just from an experienced player, but from each other,” said Matheson, a Vancouver-based pianist, trumpeter, composer and arranger. “More often than not, the musical challenges encountered and worked on in a master-class setting are quite universal for all players. Any musician can learn a great deal watching another player learn new ideas and techniques in a master class.”
Matheson likes to create a forum where musicians, regardless of playing experience, can bring their ideas and questions to him and share in the process of improving their musical skills as a group.
Festival participants can sign up for master classes at each session or email festival coordinator Val Thompson at [email protected]. For a full festival schedule, go to portal.clubrunner.ca/757.
