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New wind and brass focus for RNCM

Two conducting courses at the RNCM will have a musical focus on wind band and brass bands.

RNCM
  The courses will focus on conductors and music educators

The Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM) in Manchester has announced its annual programme of external conducting courses, which provide world-class development opportunities for conductors at all levels.

Led by RNCM conducting staff Mark Heron and Clark Rundell, it will be divided into two strands: masterclasses for conductors with some experience, and a course for music educators.

Masterclass programme

The masterclass programme, which attracts applicants from all over the world, comprises a two-day course in February and a three-day course in May in partnership with Manchester Camerata. It also includes a new weekend course in November focusing on conducting wind and brass bands.

A spokesperson told 4BR: "Participants will have the chance to conduct both the RNCM's Wind Orchestra and Brass Band, giving an unparalleled opportunity to develop their skills in front of these outstanding ensembles."

Music educators

The course for music educators is aimed at those working with youth orchestras, bands and ensembles, and will enable delegates to develop their technical and artistic skills with a specific focus on working with young musicians.

It will take place over three workshops (October, January and February) with an e-learning component between the practical sessions.

Participants will have the chance to conduct both the RNCM's Wind Orchestra and Brass Band, giving an unparalleled opportunity to develop their skills in front of these outstanding ensemblesRNCM

Outstanding talent

Mark Heron told 4BR: "At the RNCM we are very proud of our conducting courses, both for full-time students and the various short courses. The masterclass programme is long established and has unearthed some outstanding talents.

I'm also very conscious of the excellent work done by music educators throughout the UK, and we're delighted to be able to continue this new course which focuses specifically on the skills needed to work with young musicians.'

Full course details

Full course details and application packs are available here:

https://www.rncm.ac.uk/short-conducting-courses/

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John Maines

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