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Piano retreat – mixed ability – waiting list

13 January 2023 @ 7:30 pm - 15 January 2023 @ 3:30 pm

Nursery bedroom

Fancy a UK based, luxury weekend away in a grade 1 listed country manor, surrounded by grand pianos?

Our piano retreat is designed for anyone who just wants a weekend away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It would suit those who want a bit of time away to practise, or to fall in love with playing the piano again. It would also be an ideal kickstart to a New Year’s piano resolution!

There are no formal group sessions, no performances and no stress! The weekend is open to pianists of all levels.

During the course of the weekend, there will be time for private practice on one of our beautiful grand pianos. And for those who would like, our tutor will give one-to-one lessons on our new Steinway to provide individual pointers and tips.

Warren & Nemiah
Warren Mailley-Smith

We’re incredibly lucky to have secured the services of Warren Mailley-Smith for this retreat. A very popular member of the Finchcocks team and a phenomenal pianist, his courses alway sell out. In 2016, Warren became the first British pianist to perform Chopin’s complete works for solo piano from memory at a series of concerts at St John Smith’s Square in London, a feat which involved memorising 3.5 million notes!

Warren will be on hand for two optional half hour one-to-one lessons over the course of the weekend. Both Saturday and Sunday will also begin with an optional group session on warm ups, practice tips and a Q&A. You may however plan to structure your weekend differently (with a long lie-in and breakfast in bed!).

A breakfast tray in bed with orange juice, a pain aux raisins, granola, a teapot and cup of tea

On the Saturday night, Warren and soprano Susan Parkes will perform a private recital for retreat guests, which is an opportunity to relax and be inspired with a glass of wine in the magical setting of the main hall of Finchcocks.

Fireside piano

We have one grand piano available for every guest in our vaulted cellars, including our new Steinway. Piano conversation will flow freely over coffee and home made biscuits and cakes in between bouts of practice!

Hands reaching for biscuits at coffee table

The piano retreat is arranged around food. There’s no strict timetable or deadlines. Guests are free to play anytime they like between 7am and 8pm, rest when they need – or explore the beautiful Kentish countryside.

Coach House dinner

During the course of their stay guests will:

Plus ones are very welcome on our courses, with a room surcharge dependant on whether they are a playing or non-playing guest. Please ask for further details.

 

Warren & Annette at the piano

This promises to be one of most relaxed and enjoyable weekend courses. If it sounds of interest, please drop Jenny a line using the form below, or give her a ring on 01580 428080.

Weekend courses

from £650 (inclusive of accommodation, food, wine and tuition)

Details

Start:
13 January 2023 @ 7:30 pm
End:
15 January 2023 @ 3:30 pm