Music for You Summer Schools
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Wind Band Course

Directed by Simeon Yates and Steve Grant

Monday 6th - Saturday 11th August 2012


This established course is directed by Steve Grant and Simeon Yates. Steve and Simeon have worked together as a partnership for several years. They are the reason people return to this popular course year after year! They provide the support and enjoyment that is much appreciated by adults and children alike, as you learn and progress on your chosen instrument.

Develop your rehearsal and performing techniques in a friendly and supportive environment. Meet other musicians of a similar standard and learn to perform a popular and varied selection of music. Please do not worry if you have limited experience of playing in ensembles as the tutors will provide a great deal of encouragement and support. Music for You will help develop your knowledge of music theory and most importantly develop your confidence and enjoyment of performing with others.

Guy Woolfenden OBE and Dr Laszlo Marosi will be guest conductors on the the 2012 course. This will allow course participants the opportunity to be conducted by a British composer and a Hungarian guru. An experience not to be missed!

Musicians are encouraged to perform in the chamber music activities each evening. Conducting students will also assist with this course. A concert will be held on Friday 10th August.

A welcome meeting will begin at 10.00 am on Monday 6th August and rehearsals will commence at 11.00 am. A detailed schedule will be given on arrival.

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Simeon Yates

Simeon is dedicated to the development of wind bands and the promotion of wind repertoire.  He is very much involved in the educational aspect, the development and promotion of community wind music.  Until recently, he was chairman of BASBWE (British Association of Symphonic Bands and Wind Ensemble).

Simeon is currently Lead Teacher of Woodwind and Head of Huddersfield Music Centre for Kirklees Music School.  He is conductor and orchestral manager of the Kirklees Symphonic Wind Orchestra.  He is also musical director of the Yorkshire Junior Wind Ensemble.  In 1970 Simeon began studying in clarinet under Julian Hall and in 1978 he won an education scholarship and studied with Max Ben (Halle).  In 1980 he was awarded a music scholarship and in 1981 studied clarinet under Jack Brymer.  He studied ensemble direction under Major Peter Parkes and John Gully.

Following a very successful career in the north, Simeon has been invited to run workshops and conduct concerts throughout the country, he is regularly called upon to adjudicate at local and regional festivals and contribute to working parties within the wind band fraternity.  Simeon is very enthusiastic particularly when working with Junior and Intermediate level bands within education and community.  He places a great deal of importance, time and energy on bands at this level due to the fact that they are the next generation of wind band players.

Steve Grant 

Steve gained his musical experience while serving 25 years in the Band of Her Majesty’s Royal Marines. He travelled extensively throughout the world performing for Royalty and dignitaries.

Since leaving the Marines Steve continues with his musical career as a specialist teacher in East Devon, teaching Flute, Saxophone and Clarinet. He is musical director of Devon Youth Wind Orchestra, East Devon Music Centre Wind Band and Saxophone Choir, and conducts a variety of other ensembles.