Category: Uncategorized

I have had a chance over many years to consider what it is that BANDSKOOL should be: what it should represent, what its ideals are; and to whom its services should appeal. Well, this much is true: BANDSKOOL is about Read More …

‘The Times – they are a changing’…Bob Dylan was and is right. However, the times are always changing…it’s just a question of how fast are the changes happening – the rate of change. Any historian – indeed anyone who has Read More …

Guitarists are not known for being very good readers for their instrument. Let alone being good at sight reading! Why is that? Well, it’s to do with a few things that I could list: self taught – unorthodox learning curve Read More …

The Count Basie band really did lay the template for swing bands: the groove, the feel…the whole deal! Here they are live in the 60’s. This is a great recording:

The course is intended to run from August/September onwards – all things being equal and with sufficient support from players/students. It is designed with a particular kinds of players in mind. Namely the following: Young musicians at secondary school/6th form Read More …

The electric bass guitar is 70 years old this year – at least in respect of the first production made – assembly line – model; namely the Fender Precision bass c/o Leo Fender. From 1951 onwards, it was destined to Read More …

In his day, Bert was regarded as a hot guitarist – one of the best. It is undeniably true that he influenced a generation of guitarists that followed – guiding and encouraging them with his book, ‘Play in A Day’ Read More …

“The present day composers refuse to die. They have realised the necessity of banding together and fighting for the right of each individual to secure a fair and free presentation of his work.” These are words that were included in Read More …

I have felt for quite some time, that the word, ‘development’ has a possible euphemistic tone to it; that might betray the reality. It suggests change…and not all change is good. Not all change is a sign of improvement or Read More …

I sometimes tell my students that the Ukulele should never try to be a pale imitation of the Classical Guitar; and that its unique appeal should be recognised: namely that it is a much smaller instrument than the full sized- Read More …