Inverurie Music piloted training  for local amateur musicians last season when Laurence Perkins led a woodwind workshop for musicians  from three local orchestras. This was supported by EMS  but also by modest  fees from those attending. The feedback was universally positive so this year we are increasing this provision. On September 1st we launch what we hope may become a series of Chamber Music Days. Nineteen local string players will play in four ensembles at the Kemnay Church Centre. tutored by Gareth John and Jean Fletcher. Recruitment to this has been strong with four people on a reserve  list. The Garioch Partnership has provided funds to cover the cost of the tutors’ fees.

A second workshop, this time a masterclass  for cellists given by Robert Irvine, will take place at the Kemnay Community Hall on September 23rd. This also is well supported. At the same time and place the North East of Scotland Classical Guitar Soc. is hosting a guitar workshop by Alan Neave.

These opportunities for local amateur musicians are hard to find north of Perth so we are hoping they will become a regular feature of  Inverurie Music’s activities. They supplement the existing workshops for schools program which has also been expanded this year. Increased grant-aid from various bodies has made these developments possible.

These other grant giving bodies include The David and June Gordon Memorial Trust and the Gordon Forum for the Arts. Inverurie Music is grateful to these organisations for their support.