It has been another busy week with something on every evening. On Monday night, after saxophone class, I watched our fellow South African, Abel Selaocoe, win the Sir John Barbirolli Cello Prize. It was a treat to hear him perform.
On Tuesday we had the privilege of visiting the Bolton Music Service. We first paid a visit to the Harper Green School’s music department. Miles away from home, it was interesting to note that in many ways things were not all that different from where I teach in South Africa.
We then went to the Music Centre. Martin Kay, the head of the centre, showed us around and then we sat in on the woodwind departmental meeting. Once again, it was interesting hearing that the challenges which meet these teachers are not all that different from home. One big difference, however, is that these teachers visit several schools, whereas I am based at one school. Of course both systems have their advantages and disadvantages, but it struck me that being based at one school as I am, it is far easier to build up relationships with both students and their parents, which I feel is so important, especially with teaching one-on-one.
We then sat in on a percussion class for children aged about 3–5. I had to admire the patience of the teacher, who led them through various rhythmic exercises, often using rhythmic language as a tool.
After this we joined in a rehearsal of BUMP (Bolton Urban Music Project) - a junior jazz ensemble. This was followed by a rehearsal of the Bolton Youth Jazz Orchestra. We have two more visits planned to the Bolton Music Centre, and I am working on adapting an arrangement of Miriam Makeba’s Pata Pata for the jazz orchestra to perform.
Wednesday afternoon was our penultimate rehearsal for Jazz Collective. Our concert is next Tuesday. I have thoroughly enjoyed my involvement in this band and this will be remembered as one of the highlights of my time in Manchester.
We are being treated to a weekend in London courtesy of ABRSM. This has been planned to coincide with the London Jazz Festival, so we look forward to attending some of these events as well as fitting in a good dose of sightseeing.
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