News
Lady Georgianna Workshop
2nd February 2009
This was the first workshop we have had on our Cultural Perspectives module and it was a very productive and interesting day. When we arrived, as a couple of us were early we helped carry the harpsichord into the live room- and just generally helped out. Shortly after this, the class went into the theatre for a lecture from the group.
The lecture was very educational and interesting. Firstly, they explained how they find the scores for the Baroque music they perform and how they analyze, adapt and rewrite the music so that it can appeal to a modern audience. They then showed us the Baroque style costumes that they wear whilst performing and also props which they use throughout the show. Lastly, in the lecture they described how the group promotes and markets their music, what forms of media they use and also explained several ways to get funding from the Arts Council- all of which was very useful information.
After a short break, we went into the studio where the group explained how all of their instruments worked, how they are used, played and how they are different to modern instruments. This was especially interesting for me as I have never seen a harpsichord or baroque cello, other than in pictures; and the baroque cello was actually from approx. the 1790s! We then mic-ed up all of the instruments and recorded several takes of four songs that they perform regularly. I also enjoyed this, as I haven't recorded this style of music before or these instruments.
Overall, I had a really enjoyable day. I particularly liked how inspiring the group were and how much they love the music that they perform. It was extremely interesting and I learnt quite a lot from the day!
By Marc Rose (Recording Arts Degree Student)
