Oboe ensembles are a great way to learn techniques in a group setting. It allows you to develop your skills while also learning from others. In addition playing in oboe bands is a lot of fun for musicians at any level.
Originally oboe ensembles/bands were abundant in France and Germany during the 18th Centuries playing in the lavish courts of Louis XIV. In addition to oboes and bassoons, sometimes percussionists and trumpets would join the group and perform celebratory music at festivals. Do listen to the clip of the Tessier arrangement below by Alison Teale to sample a flavour of this amazing sound. To be part of an ensemble that revels in the double reed sound quality is joyous.
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The tradition is still very much alive, and Alison uses this music as an engaging way for everyone to play and learn together. Ensemble sessions will not simply be rehearsals. Each piece will focus on aspects of technique such as articulation, breathing, style, tuning, pulse, and the art of playing together without a conductor. We've incorporated a percussion workshop to experience ensemble playing without reeds, using the rhythms and need for a steady pulse in Michael Nyman's 'Chasing Sheep is Best Left to Shepherds' which we will perform on August 20th as part of the oboe band concert.
All the music will be arranged specially for the course, taking account of everyone's ability.
Oboe Band arrangements can also include Cor Anglais, Oboe D'amore and Bass Oboe. We will be joined by Thais Bordes, a fabulous bassoonist from Toulouse. and oboe band enthusiast.
There will also be chances to try out Oboe D'amore and Bass Oboe, if you are curious and want to get your hands on these fabulous instruments.
Here are a few examples of the oboe ensembles that we've performed previously. See our Concerts page to find out what we are planning for the course this year.