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DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260424T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260426T153000
DTSTAMP:20260509T032234
CREATED:20250722T070013Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251002T100827Z
UID:29950-1777057200-1777217400@www.finchcocks.com
SUMMARY:Russian & Soviet Piano with Nicholas Walker - upper intermediate - diploma+ - WAITING LIST
DESCRIPTION:This exciting weekend course offers students the chance to explore the rich vein of music not only from Russia per se\, but also from the countries that were once part of the Russian Empire or Soviet Union. Their many common features will be shared – in particular the influence of Chopin – but also many distinct and personal traits. \nWe’re delighted to be welcoming guest tutor Nicholas Walker to share his extensive knowledge on the Russian & Soviet Piano here at Finchcocks. Acclaimed as a “prodigy… of exceptional artistry” (Evening Standard)\, pianist Nicholas is renowned for his virtuosic flair and sensitive musicianship. A champion of Balakirev\, his celebrated Naxos Grand Piano series includes world premiere recordings. He has performed globally\, recorded widely\, and appeared with major UK orchestras. His 2024 Wigmore Hall all-Balakirev concerts drew acclaim as “a master at work.” \nThe course is aimed at confident upper intermediates and advanced pianists. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAlongside the well-known Russian composers – Rachmaninoff\, Scriabin\, Prokofiev\, and others – there is a wealth of lesser-known figures who have written beautiful and significant works. These include familiar names like Balakirev\, Glinka\, Dubuque\, Dargomyzhsky\, Borodin\, Mussorgsky\, Arensky\, Lyadov\, and Gëdike\, as well as important non-Russian Slavic composers such as Bortkiewicz\, Glière\, Lysenko\, Szymanowski\, and Silvestrov. One might also include composers born in the Russian Empire or Soviet Union\, such as Čiurlionis\, Karganov\, Weinberg\, and Khachaturian. \nComposers of this tradition are often accused of never writing one note when twenty-five thousand will do! Yet there is a great deal of music that is far more accessible while remaining of the highest quality—for example\, Lyadov’s Biryulki or Scriabin’s preludes. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe Russian & Soviet Piano weekend will follow our usual format\, incorporating an interactive workshop on both Saturday and Sunday mornings and will include: \nWorkshop 1: Navigating your way through the thick forest of notes – how to make it all simpler. \nWhen one opens a page of Russian\, or indeed a great deal of other 19th/20th century music\, one is often met with a very black\, discouraging looking page. However what one is looking at is very often the chromatic ornamentation of simple tonal or modal chord progressions and melodies. This workshop will suggest ways in which you could explore this for yourself\, and use the structure you find to enable you to play many notes with gesture\, free of mental and physical stress. \nWorkshop 2: Recreating orchestral and other sonorities at the piano \nThe piano is capable of infinite suggestion\, which is why so much piano music suggests other instruments\, such as bells\, the guitar\, the harp\, in fact the whole orchestra. This workshop will look at how becoming more aware of this stimulates one’s imagination so that one begins to make music from the beginning\, rather than just struggling with the notes. Practice is a lot more absorbing this way. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAfter these\, time will be spent in private practice\, one-to-one tuition with Nicholas – or an open lesson performance class in our Steinway recital room. For inspiration on repertoire choice\, the works of many Russian composers can be found on IMSLP – but not everything. https://notes.tarakanov.net/ is an excellent alternative resource. Although it is in Russian\, there is a composer search available in English for which Nicholas has also created a handy help sheet on how to navigate. (Avaliable upon request.) \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe highlight of a weekend course is often our Saturday evening tutor recital-talk. Nicholas will treat guests to a concert inspired by the music of Balakirev\, Tchaikovsky and Rachmaninoff\, interweaved with his knowledge of and great love for Russian and Soviet repertoire. We just can’t wait to experience it! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nOn this weekend course\, guests will: \n\nHave the chance to play in and observe two performance masterclasses.\nWill receive a one-to-one lesson with Nicholas.\nEnjoy access to play on our 9 grand pianos anytime between 7am and 8pm. (There are enough pianos to go round that everyone can play a piano at any given time.)\nExperience a private salon concert of music by Balakirev\, Tchaikovsky and Rachmaninoff in the main hall of the family home\, performed by Nicholas.\nJoin and socialise with a group 8 fellow piano enthusiasts during lunch and dinner.\nDine in style with lunches and three course dinners prepared by our fabulous chef.\nExperience the Finchcocks bubble\, hailed as a “paradise for pianists” by BBC Music Magazine and stay in a grade 1 listed country manor.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNicholas Walker \nHailed by the London Evening Standard as a ‘prodigy\, of awesome technical fluency backed by exceptional artistry’\, Nicholas Walker possesses a rare combination of talents combining sensitivity with ‘the flair of a full scale virtuoso and a sparkling intelligence’ (BBC Music Magazine). \nHe studied at the Royal Academy of Music\, where he won all the major awards for both piano and composition\, and subsequently at the Moscow Conservatoire. \nWhile still a student in Moscow\, he won the First Newport International Piano Competition and has since played with many British Orchestras\, including the City of Birmingham and National Symphony Orchestras\, the Royal Philharmonic\, London Mozart Players\, the London Festival and New Queen’s Hall Orchestras\, the Philharmonia and the BBC National Symphony Orchestra of Wales. As well as performing in all the major London concert halls\, he has played in North and South America\, France\, Germany\, Switzerland\, Italy\, Scandinavia\, Australia and Russia. He has recorded for BBC Radio 3\, Cirrus\, ASV\, BMG Arte Nova\, Chandos\, Toccata Classics and Naxos Grand Piano. Equally at home in chamber music\, he is sought after as an imaginative and sensitive accompanist\, and his CD with Lydia Mordkovitch of Russian violin music was Daily Telegraph CD of the week. \nAlthough Walker’s performances of Beethoven have brought him special notice\, and his performances of the lyrical and late romantic piano music have also been singled out for the highest praise\, it is for his championing of the cause of the neglected leader of ‘The Mighty Handful’\, Mili Alexei Balakirev\, that he is best known. Described by the Financial Times as ‘the nearest thing to a natural Balakirev performer’\, Walker’s two discs of Balakirev piano music for ASV (CD DCA 940 & 1048) received great critical acclaim\, and he has also received high praise for his performances of other Russian composers\, including his live recording of the Liapunov Sonata on Danacord (DACOCD 539)\, described by Jeremy Nicholas as ‘thrilling… a tour de force’ \nHis now complete series for Naxos Grand Piano is however unique\, in that it introduces music that has never before been performed or published\, including a substantial sonata and works that Nicholas has finished off himself. All the CDs garnered enthusiastic reviews\, and CD3 was CD of the week on Musiq3. James Harrington of the American Record Guide has called them the “reference set”; Damian Thompson\, writing in the Spectator\, said that the series “has to be heard to be believed”\, while Jeremy Nicholas in the Gramophone described the playing as “bravura with integrity”. \nHis 2024 Wigmore Hall performances – two concerts with different all Balakirev programmes on the same day (surely a first!) – were greeted with acclaim by Barry Creasy – “A master at work”: https://www.musicomh.com/classical/reviews-classical/mily-balakirev-nicholas-walker-wigmore-hall \nNicholas’s next recording project is a double CD of all the Liszt etudes and the Sonata in B minor. \nwww.nicholaswalkerpiano.com \nwww.youtube.com/user/NicholasWalkerPiano \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFor booking enquiries\, please contact fill in the form below. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  \n\n\n\n Your Name (required)\n \n \n Your Email (required)\n \n \n Which course date(s) are you interested in?\n \n \n Playing level / experience (required)\n \n \n Room price band:\nPlease selectClassic (standard)Considerable (large)Old Dairy (with own piano)\n\n \n Other room preferences: (please select most important one and we'll try to our best to accommodate)\nPlease selectEnsuiteWalk-in showerBath2nd floor3rd floorI'm easy!\n\n \n Please tell us anything else that you think would be helpful:\n \n \n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n	Weekend courses\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n	from £700 (inclusive of accommodation\, food\, wine and tuition)
URL:https://www.finchcocks.com/availability/russian-soviet-piano-with-nicholas-walker/
LOCATION:Kent
CATEGORIES:Advanced,Upper intermediate weekend
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.finchcocks.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Nicholas-Walker-Steinway-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260410T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260412T153000
DTSTAMP:20260509T032234
CREATED:20250722T070024Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260224T181953Z
UID:30006-1775815200-1776007800@www.finchcocks.com
SUMMARY:3-day Upper Intermediate course with David Hall - WAITING LIST
DESCRIPTION:Our 3-day course for Upper Intermediate pianists is designed to allow a bit more space to take things at slower pace and in more depth. \nThere can be a split camp when it comes to taking exams as part of the learning process\, perhaps especially as an adult learner. Some love the focus to work towards\, some are happy to leave the stress behind with school. Perhaps it depends on our source of motivation – or something else! \nEither way\, the skills tested in most exams (e.g. scales\, arpeggios\, sight-reading…) ideally help shape us into a well-rounded musician\, as well as pianist. \nOn this 3-day Upper Intermediate course for pianists around grades 5-7 playing level\, our Music Director and author of There’s (even) more to playing piano David Hall will be helping you discover a way to becoming that versatile pianist. Guests can expect his signature inspiration alongside an encouraging and flexible teaching style. \n\nHall certainly knows his stuff\, both academically and as a teacher. ~ Andrew Eales\, Piano Dao \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDuring your stay\, David will cover the following topics in his interactive workshops: \n\nWorkshop 1 – Efficient Practice\n\nWorkshop 2 – Scales and Arpeggios – the easy bit!\n\n\nWorkshop 3 – 10-Week Plan to Improve Sight-Reading\n\n\nThere will also be time for private practice on one of our beautiful grand pianos to consolidate material covered in the workshops. And for those who would like\, David will give one-to-one lessons on our new Steinway to provide individual pointers and tips. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nEach day also includes an afternoon performance class\, during which half the group have the chance to play and receive feedback from David. (The third and final one being a chance for all to give a piece a final airing or ask questions arising from your stay.) This is a lovely and encouraging setting and will hopefully feel more like an “open lesson” rather than the exam you might be preparing for! \nOn the Saturday night\, David will then perform a private salon concert 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. It really is truly special. \n\n\n\n\nWe 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! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDuring the course of their stay guests will: \n\nEnjoy access to play on our 9 grand pianos anytime between 7am and 8pm. (There are enough pianos to go round that everyone can play a piano at any given time.)\nEnjoy a one-to-one lesson with our David.\nExperience a private recital for retreat guests in the main hall of the family home\, performed by David.\nJoin and socialise with a group 8 fellow piano enthusiasts during lunch and dinner.\nDine in style with lunches and three course dinners prepared by our fabulous chef.\nExperience the Finchcocks bubble\, hailed as a “paradise for pianists” by BBC Music Magazine and stay in a grade 1 listed country manor.\nBe able to explore the Kentish countryside and local attractions should they wish a trip out.\n\nPlus 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. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nStarting at 10am on the Friday\, this extended stay gives upper intermediate pianists chance to really absorb and embed new tips and strategies into their playing. If it sounds of interest\, please drop Jenny a line using the form below. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  \n\n\n\n Your Name (required)\n \n \n Your Email (required)\n \n \n Which course date(s) are you interested in?\n \n \n Playing level / experience (required)\n \n \n Room price band:\nPlease selectClassic (standard)Considerable (large)Old Dairy (with own piano)\n\n \n Other room preferences: (please select most important one and we'll try to our best to accommodate)\nPlease selectEnsuiteWalk-in showerBath2nd floor3rd floorI'm easy!\n\n \n Please tell us anything else that you think would be helpful:\n \n \n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n	3-day courses\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n	from £900 (inclusive of accommodation\, food\, wine and tuition)
URL:https://www.finchcocks.com/availability/3-day-upper-intermediate-course-with-david-hall-2026/
LOCATION:Kent
CATEGORIES:Upper intermediate,Upper intermediate weekend
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.finchcocks.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/David-Hall-zoom-2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260327T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260329T153000
DTSTAMP:20260509T032234
CREATED:20250722T070002Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251003T100052Z
UID:29933-1774605600-1774798200@www.finchcocks.com
SUMMARY:3-day Chopin course with Daniel Grimwood - Upper Intermediate - Diploma - WAITING LIST
DESCRIPTION:Back by very popular demand\, this will be our eighth Chopin weekend here at Finchcocks\, this time with incredibly knowledgeable and talented virtuoso UK concert pianist Daniel Grimwood.  \nChopin’s lyrical and elegant Nocturnes and Preludes are firm favourites with our Upper Intermediate\, Advanced and Diploma+ players\, and so we’re very excited to announce the return of our very popular composer-specific weekend. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nEach day begins begin with an interactive workshop\, led by Daniel and will include:\n\nBel canto style and the piano\nPianists\, Paris and the Age of Virtuosity\nPlaying as Chopin intended\n\nAfternoons are spent exploring and enjoying each other’s repertoire\, applying newly gained knowledge in performance classes – as well as some private practice! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIn between the workshop and masterclass sessions there will be time for private practice on one of our beautiful grand pianos. During these sessions\, Daniel will give one-to-one lessons on our new Steinway to provide individual pointers and tips. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGuests will also: \n\nHave the chance to play in and observe two performance masterclasses.\nWill receive a one-to-one lesson with Daniel.\nEnjoy access to play on our 9 grand pianos anytime between 7am and 8pm. (There are enough pianos to go round that everyone can play a piano at any given time.)\nExperience a private recital-talk for course participants in the main hall of the family home\, performed by Daniel.\nJoin and socialise with a group 8 fellow piano enthusiasts during lunch and dinner.\nDine in style with lunches and three course dinners prepared by our fabulous chef.\nExperience the Finchcocks bubble\, hailed as a “paradise for pianists” by BBC Music Magazine and stay in a grade 1 listed country manor.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n“He has all the virtuoso velocity and firepower\, and then some” – BBC Music Magazine \n“Daniel Grimwood\, fast making a name for himself as an original and discriminating musician” – Gramophone \n“Probably the finest all‐round musician I have ever known” – Felix Aprahamian \nWith a repertoire ranging from Elizabethan Virginal music to the works of living composers\, Daniel enjoys a solo and chamber career which has taken him around the globe\, performing in many of the most prestigious concert platforms\, including the Wigmore Hall\, Queen Elizabeth Hall and the Purcell Room in London\, Saffron Hall\, Bridgewater Hall in Manchester\, Symphony Hall Birmingham\, the Sage Gateshead\, the Three Choirs Festival\, the Rachmaninoff and Gnessin Halls in Moscow\, the Carnegie Hall in New York\, as well as venues in Germany\, Austria\, Italy\, The Netherlands\, Slovenia\, Estonia\, Taiwan\, Azerbaijan\, Egypt\, Lebanon and Oman. \nHis musical interest started as a 3-year-old playing next door’s piano in Kent\, and by the age of 7 he was performing in front of audiences. His training continued with Graham Fitch at the Purcell School\, where he also studied violin\, viola and composition\, giving him a broad appreciation of classical music\, and later with Vladimir Ovchinnikov and Peter Feuchtwanger. \nDaniel is a passionate about all keyboard instruments old and new\, and has given a recital of Chopin’s Etudes on the composer’s own Pleyel piano. \nHis discs of Liszt and Chopin\, performed on an 1851 Erard piano\, received a unanimous chorus of praise from the press; the Liszt album was Daily Telegraph CD of the week and Editor’s Choice in Gramophone Magazine. He was the first artist to record on the Edition Peters Sounds label\, the complete Fauré Nocturnes album was released to excellent reception in The Sunday Times\, which was followed by a disc of solo piano works by Adolph von Henselt\, described as “a blizzard of dazzling pianism” by the Observer. His most recent release is a disc of Doreen Carwithen and William Alwyn\, also on Edition Peters Sounds\, and his account of the complete Henselt Etudes will be released later this year. \nAs editor Daniel is currently preparing editions of John Field and Adolph von Henselt for Edition Peters. \nDaniel regularly performs on live broadcasts on BBC Radio 3\, and has been featured in BBC Four’s TV documentary series “Revolution and Romance”. \nAway from the piano\, Daniel is a keen runner and member of Paddock Wood Athletic Club. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFor booking enquiries\, please contact Jenny by filling in the form below. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  \n\n\n\n Your Name (required)\n \n \n Your Email (required)\n \n \n Which course date(s) are you interested in?\n \n \n Playing level / experience (required)\n \n \n Room price band:\nPlease selectClassic (standard)Considerable (large)Old Dairy (with own piano)\n\n \n Other room preferences: (please select most important one and we'll try to our best to accommodate)\nPlease selectEnsuiteWalk-in showerBath2nd floor3rd floorI'm easy!\n\n \n Please tell us anything else that you think would be helpful:\n \n \n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n	3-day courses\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n	from £900 (inclusive of accommodation\, food\, wine and tuition)
URL:https://www.finchcocks.com/availability/3-day-chopin-course-with-daniel-grimwood-2026/
LOCATION:Kent
CATEGORIES:Advanced,Upper intermediate
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.finchcocks.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Daniel-Grimwood-4-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260316T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260320T153000
DTSTAMP:20260509T032234
CREATED:20250722T070017Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250723T154514Z
UID:29932-1773657000-1774020600@www.finchcocks.com
SUMMARY:5-day Spring School for Advanced Pianists with Graham Fitch - WAITING LIST
DESCRIPTION:Our first 5-day course of 2026 is now an established favourite for Advanced pianists. Dedicated to those preparing for a special performance\, it provides a concentrated boost for those attending – to study\, practise\, polish and improve performance skills and experience. And at the helm leading the process is the hugely popular and inspiring Graham Fitch! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPreparing for a diploma or special performance is an excellent way to provide focus and structure to your piano practice as you work towards a goal. This provides an ideal opportunity for continued professional or personal development. On this course you can receive tuition and coaching on your programme. There will also be opportunities to practise performing your programme (or selections from it) to others in a safe and supportive environment\, either in the class or more informally in a small group. In addition to masterclasses\, there are workshops on how to prepare for performance\, strategies to manages nerves\, as well as clinics where we aim to solve practice and technical issues. Whether you are just embarking on the path\, about to sit a diploma or simply preparing for a recital at advanced level\, this course is for you. \nOur 5-day courses are a well established highlight of the Finchcocks calendar. To ensure a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere\, places are open to those who have attended at least one weekend Finchcocks course previously. \nDedicated to those wanting to improve their performance\, Graham Fitch will lead guests through an intensive week providing a concentrated boost of study\, practice and experience in performance skills. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLike our weekend courses\, formal tuition takes place in workshops\, performance classes and one-to-one lessons. \nThis course’s focuses will be: \n\nPreparing for a Performance: Strategies for Structuring Your Practice\nPerformance Confidence\nClinic: Solving Technical and Musical Problems in Your Pieces\nMemorisation and Deep Learning Techniques\nPractising a Performance: Building Stamina and Resilience into your Programme.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAs usual\, everyone will have access to their own grand piano for the week including our new Steinway\, and have plenty of time to practise in our vaulted piano cellar. \nWe’ll also have a bit of fun! We’ll enjoy a recitial from either a visiting concert pianist\, Graham himself or your course host\, explore the private gardens at Finchcocks and be able to go for beautiful Kentish countryside\, weather permitting. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAnd of course\, it goes without saying that you can expect the usual! \nGuests will: \n\nHave the chance to play in and observe multiple performance masterclasses.\nWill receive one-to-one lessons with Graham.\nEnjoy access to play on our 9 grand pianos anytime between 7am and 8pm. (There are enough pianos to go round that everyone can play a piano at any given time.)\nHave the chance to take part in a recital on the Bosendorfer in the main hall of the family home.\nHear a presentation from Graham in the main hall on advanced repertoire\, with ideas for practice and interpretation.\nJoin and socialise with a group 8 fellow piano enthusiasts during lunch and dinner.\nDine in style with lunches and three course dinners prepared by our fabulous chef.\nExperience the Finchcocks bubble\, hailed as a “paradise for pianists” by BBC Music Magazine and stay in a grade 1 listed country manor.\n\nPlus-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. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis is a unique\, luxury UK-based piano gem and an experience that you won’t forget anytime soon. Many guests continue friendships made on these courses\, encouraging each other on in the piano playing on Whatsapp\, organising private piano meet ups further down the line… and bumping into each other again on future courses! \nFor booking enquiries\, please contact Jenny by filling in the form below. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n	from £1550 (inclusive of accommodation\, tuition and all food and wine)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  \n\n\n\n Your Name (required)\n \n \n Your Email (required)\n \n \n Which course date(s) are you interested in?\n \n \n Playing level / experience (required)\n \n \n Room price band:\nPlease selectClassic (standard)Considerable (large)Old Dairy (with own piano)\n\n \n Other room preferences: (please select most important one and we'll try to our best to accommodate)\nPlease selectEnsuiteWalk-in showerBath2nd floor3rd floorI'm easy!\n\n \n Please tell us anything else that you think would be helpful:\n \n \n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n...
URL:https://www.finchcocks.com/availability/5-day-spring-school-for-advanced-pianists-with-graham-fitch-2026/
LOCATION:Kent
CATEGORIES:Advanced
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.finchcocks.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Graham-Fitch.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260306T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260308T153000
DTSTAMP:20260509T032234
CREATED:20250722T070007Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251229T141308Z
UID:29916-1772823600-1772983800@www.finchcocks.com
SUMMARY:The American Piano with Beatrice Nicholas - mixed ability - WAITING LIST
DESCRIPTION:We are very excited to welcome back British classical concert pianist and composer Beatrice Nicholas for a weekend delving into the rich repertoire of American piano\, “classical swing” and boogie woogie. \nThe mixed-ability weekend will explore the crossover genre of notated jazz\, blues and boogie woogie through the lens of 20th century Broadway\, Hollywood and the American rights movement. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBeatrice enjoys an international career as a solo concert pianist\, performing works by Bach through to the present day\, with notable performances at Wigmore Hall\, the Royal Festival Hall and Royal Opera House. Alongside this – and composing – she loves collaborative work with chamber ensembles and The British Black Classical Foundation\, which tackles the lack of ethnic diversity in the classical arts and represents and works in communities of colour throughout the UK and beyond. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe American Piano weekend will follow our usual format\, incorporating an interactive workshop on both Saturday and Sunday mornings and will include: \nBoogie Woogie Blues: Licks\, Hacks and Monster Left Hands! \nBoogie Together: Take part in the Boogie Woogie piano ensemble. A chance improvise in a piano ensemble team. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAfter these\, time will be spent in private practice\, one-to-one tuition with Beatrice – or an open lesson performance class in our Steinway recital room. Repertoire for this is not restricted to boogie woogie and can take the form of any notated jazz\, broader 20th century American piano music – or something completely different for contrast! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe highlight of a weekend course is often our Saturday evening tutor recital talk. Beatrice will treat guests to a concert inspired by the female jazz legends Hazel Scott and Lil Hardin Armstrong. These African American female jazz stars trained first as classical pianists but were denied access to the classical music industry on account of their colour. Hazel Scott in particular\, became famous for giving popular classical music a jazz spin with her style became known as ‘classical swing’. Music will contain a selection of the following: \n\nMoonlight Sonata Mvt I\, Ludwig van Beethoven.\nEast Town Boogie. By Lil Hardin Armstrong. Arr Beatrice Nicholas.\nWaltz in C Sharp Minor l. Op.69 No.2 by Federic Chopin.\nChopin Minute Waltz in the style of Hazel Scott\nHungarian Rhapsody No.2 in C Sharp Minor by Franz Liszt\nHallelujah by Vincent Youmans. Arr Hazel Scott.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nOn this weekend course\, guests will: \n\nHave the chance to play in and observe two performance masterclasses.\nWill receive a one-to-one lesson with Beatrice.\nEnjoy access to play on our 9 grand pianos anytime between 7am and 8pm. (There are enough pianos to go round that everyone can play a piano at any given time.)\nExperience a private salon concert in the main hall of the family home\, performed by Beatrice.\nJoin and socialise with a group 8 fellow piano enthusiasts during lunch and dinner.\nDine in style with lunches and three course dinners prepared by our fabulous chef.\nExperience the Finchcocks bubble\, hailed as a “paradise for pianists” by BBC Music Magazine and stay in a grade 1 listed country manor.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBeatrice Nicholas is a captivating Pianist whose performances are full of imagination\, freedom and beauty. She plays solo repertoire ranging from Bach to the present day and has performed in the UK’s leading venues. Her music engagements take her around the UK\, Germany\, Poland\, Thailand and the Czech Republic. Notable venues have included the Royal Festival Hall\, Wigmore Hall\, Royal Opera House\, London Coliseum\, Berlin Konzerthaus\, Sadler’s Wells Theater\, Leeds Town Hall and Snape Maltings. \nAs well as being a solo artist\, Beatrice enjoys collaborative work with a variety of opera singers and instrumentalists. She  has strong links to the world of dance and has  played for the Birmingham Royal Ballet\, Royal Ballet and for the English National Ballet companies. Beatrice is also a composer and arranger who has received commissions from the Creative Minds Festival\, Nottingham Chamber Music Festival\, Dark Design Graphics Company and been showcased by the British  Black Classical Foundation as a featured composer for  Black History Month 2021. \nBeatrice\, born in England\, was admitted to the Junior Department of the Royal College of Music at fourteen years old.  She studied solo piano with Danielle Salamon\, composition with David Sutton Anderson and received additional teaching from composer Paul Patterson at the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain Composer’s Course. During her time at the  Junior Department Beatrice won the institution’s major prizes for piano and represented the Department as a composer. At eighteen years Beatrice went to the Royal Academy of Music\, studying piano with Patsy Toh\, composition with Elena Langer\, and won  the Royal Academy of Music’s Eric Brough Memorial Prize for Piano. She continued her training with concert pianists Michael Endres and Susanne Gruetzman at the Hanns Eisler Music Academy in Berlin. Beatrice believes that music is a powerful tool of communication and enjoys using it to lift and engage the human heart. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFor booking enquiries\, please contact fill in the form below. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  \n\n\n\n Your Name (required)\n \n \n Your Email (required)\n \n \n Which course date(s) are you interested in?\n \n \n Playing level / experience (required)\n \n \n Room price band:\nPlease selectClassic (standard)Considerable (large)Old Dairy (with own piano)\n\n \n Other room preferences: (please select most important one and we'll try to our best to accommodate)\nPlease selectEnsuiteWalk-in showerBath2nd floor3rd floorI'm easy!\n\n \n Please tell us anything else that you think would be helpful:\n \n \n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n	Weekend courses\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n	from £700 (inclusive of accommodation\, food\, wine and tuition)
URL:https://www.finchcocks.com/availability/the-american-piano/
LOCATION:Kent
CATEGORIES:Advanced,Intermediate,Mixed ability,Upper intermediate weekend
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.finchcocks.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Beatrice-2024-scaled.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260220T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260222T153000
DTSTAMP:20260509T032234
CREATED:20250722T070003Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250923T191646Z
UID:30000-1771581600-1771774200@www.finchcocks.com
SUMMARY:3-day Lower Intermediate course with David Hall - WAITING LIST
DESCRIPTION:Our 3-day course for Intermediate pianists is designed to allow a bit more space to take things at slower pace and in more depth. \nAimed at pianists around grades 2-4 playing level\, the course is led by our Music Director and author of There’s more to playing piano David Hall. Guests can expect his signature inspiration alongside an encouraging and flexible teaching style. \n\nHall certainly knows his stuff\, both academically and as a teacher. ~ Andrew Eales\, Piano Dao \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDuring your stay\, David will cover the following topics in his interactive workshops: \n\nWorkshop 1 – Making the most of your weekend. How to:\n– practice efficiently and effectively\n– structure a practice session\n– ensure practice is creative and enjoyable\n\nWorkshop 2 – There’s More to Playing the Piano Part 1\nExploring intervals\, chords and lead sheets. \n\n\nWorkshop 3 – There’s More to Playing the Piano Part 2\nTips for developing sight-reading and aural skills.\n\n\nThere will also be time for private practice on one of our beautiful grand pianos to consolidate material covered in the workshops. And for those who would like\, David will give one-to-one lessons on our new Steinway to provide individual pointers and tips. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBoth Friday and Saturday include an afternoon performance class\, during which half the group have the chance to play and receive feedback from David. This is a lovely and encouraging setting and will hopefully feel more like an “open lesson” to learn from each other. The closing session on Sunday is left open to delve deeper into topics raised by the group during their stay – a piano clinic of sorts – or a chance to give a particular piece one final airing to celebrate your progress. \nOn the Saturday night\, David will then perform a private salon concert 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. It really is truly special. \n\n\n\n\nWe 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! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDuring the course of their stay guests will: \n\nEnjoy access to play on our 9 grand pianos anytime between 7am and 8pm. (There are enough pianos to go round that everyone can play a piano at any given time.)\nEnjoy a one-to-one lesson with David.\nExperience a private recital for retreat guests in the main hall of the family home\, performed by David.\nJoin and socialise with a group 8 fellow piano enthusiasts during lunch and dinner.\nDine in style with lunches and three course dinners prepared by our fabulous chef.\nExperience the Finchcocks bubble\, hailed as a “paradise for pianists” by BBC Music Magazine and stay in a grade 1 listed country manor.\nBe able to explore the Kentish countryside and local attractions should they wish a trip out.\n\nPlus 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. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nStarting at 10am on the Friday\, this extended stay gives lower intermediate pianists chance to really absorb and embed new tips and strategies into their playing. If it sounds of interest\, please drop Jenny a line using the form below. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  \n\n\n\n Your Name (required)\n \n \n Your Email (required)\n \n \n Which course date(s) are you interested in?\n \n \n Playing level / experience (required)\n \n \n Room price band:\nPlease selectClassic (standard)Considerable (large)Old Dairy (with own piano)\n\n \n Other room preferences: (please select most important one and we'll try to our best to accommodate)\nPlease selectEnsuiteWalk-in showerBath2nd floor3rd floorI'm easy!\n\n \n Please tell us anything else that you think would be helpful:\n \n \n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n	3-day courses\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n	from £900 (inclusive of accommodation\, food\, wine and tuition)
URL:https://www.finchcocks.com/availability/3-day-lower-intermediate-course-with-david-hall-2026/
LOCATION:Kent
CATEGORIES:Lower intermediate,Lower Intermediate Weekend
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.finchcocks.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/David-Hall-zoom-2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260206T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260208T153000
DTSTAMP:20260509T032234
CREATED:20250722T070034Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260120T115723Z
UID:29981-1770404400-1770564600@www.finchcocks.com
SUMMARY:Essential Piano Technique with Penelope Roskell - upper intermediates and their teachers! - WAITING LIST
DESCRIPTION:A course for upper intermediate pianists – or those who teach them! – with Penelope Roskell.\n\nProfessor of Piano and award winning author of the Complete Pianist Penelope Roskell will be leading this weekend course on Essential Piano Technique. It is aimed at not only pianists of an upper intermediate level (including adult returners)\, but teachers of this level too!\nPenelope is the UK’s foremost specialist in healthy piano playing\, and she will share with the group how to put many of the ideas from her comprehensive “piano bible” The Complete Pianist into practice – as well as the thought process and strategy behind her popular piano education series Essential Piano Technique (of which the upper intermediate books in the range are soon to be published!). \nBring along any pieces that you would like help with\, both musically and technically\, as well as any general questions you have about piano playing. There will be some emphasis on ensuring that you feel physically at ease at the piano\, so that you can play without tension or potential injury in the future. \nThe weekend promises to be musically intensive as well as friendly\, supportive and welcoming to everyone. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nEach day typically starts with a workshop on the Finchcocks Steinway in the recital room. These are followed by private practice on one of our beautiful acoustic grand pianos whilst Penelope gives one-to-one tuition to guests. The afternoons begin with a performance class (a bit like an open lesson) followed by more chance for priviate consolidation! \nOn this particular course\, Saturday and Sunday also both begin with some gentle warm ups (outside\, weather permitting) to prepare particpants physically and mentally for the workshops ahead*. \nThe two scheduled workshops which follow will give you a chance to ask questions about any tricky spots in your pieces and will cover:\n\nIntermediate technique\nIntermediate musicianship\n\nBoth provide guests with the perfect opportunity to bring pieces they are working on for expert guidance. \n*Comfortable clothing and footwear is recommended for this. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nOn the Saturday evening\, we have an extra special performance from concert pianist Jong-Gyung Park for you! This is your chance to sit back and be inspired in the main hall of the family home and listen to an astonishing pianist play for you on the Bosendorfer. Jong-Gyung will play a selection of some of her current repertoire\, giving some historical context along the way. \nHere she is performing with Anthony Zerpa-Falcón in our recital room! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nOver the course of the weekend\, guests will: \n\nHave the chance to play in and observe two performance masterclasses.\nWill receive a one-to-one lesson with Penelope.\nEnjoy access to play on our 9 grand pianos anytime between 7am and 8pm. (There are enough pianos to go round that everyone can play a piano at any given time.)\nExperience a private recital-talk of inspiring intermediate pieces in the main hall of the family home\, performed by Penelope.\nJoin and socialise with a group 8 fellow piano enthusiasts during lunch and dinner.\nDine in style with lunches and three course dinners prepared by our fabulous chef.\nExperience the Finchcocks bubble\, hailed as a “paradise for pianists” by BBC Music Magazine and stay in a grade 1 listed country manor.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFor booking enquiries\, please fill in the form below. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  \n\n\n\n Your Name (required)\n \n \n Your Email (required)\n \n \n Which course date(s) are you interested in?\n \n \n Playing level / experience (required)\n \n \n Room price band:\nPlease selectClassic (standard)Considerable (large)Old Dairy (with own piano)\n\n \n Other room preferences: (please select most important one and we'll try to our best to accommodate)\nPlease selectEnsuiteWalk-in showerBath2nd floor3rd floorI'm easy!\n\n \n Please tell us anything else that you think would be helpful:\n \n \n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n	Weekend courses\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n	from £700 (inclusive of accommodation\, food\, wine and tuition)
URL:https://www.finchcocks.com/availability/essential-piano-technique-with-penelope-roskell/
LOCATION:Kent
CATEGORIES:Intermediate,Teacher,Upper intermediate
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.finchcocks.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Penelope-Roskell-Credit-John-Batten-2019-011.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260123T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260125T153000
DTSTAMP:20260509T032234
CREATED:20250722T070054Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260112T120621Z
UID:29968-1769194800-1769355000@www.finchcocks.com
SUMMARY:The Versatile Pianist with Pavel Timofeyevsky - upper intermediate - advanced - WAITING LIST
DESCRIPTION:Join virtuoso pianist and composer Pavel Timofeyevsky for a dynamic weekend exploring what it means to be a Versatile Pianist. Covering a broad range of piano repertoire\, late baroque to the 20th century\, two interactive workshops\, two performance classes and a one-to-one lesson\, this course for upper intermediates – advanced players is not to be missed. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWe’re delighted to welcome Pavel for his first weekend course at Finchcocks. A virtuoso pianist\, composer for film and the concert stage\, arranger and lecturer\, Pavel Timofeyevsky has received numerous prizes and accolades\, including the BBC/Guardian Young Composer of the Year award – and has appeared at nearly all the major concert venues across the UK. \nFor this weekend he shares his wealth of knowledge\, skill and experience with you and just a small group of 8 piano enthusiasts! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe Versatile Pianist weekend will follow our usual format\, incorporating an interactive workshop on both Saturday and Sunday mornings. \nThe first one – The Soul of the Piano – takes a deep dive into all aspects of pedalling\, with hands-(and feet!)-on experimentation across styles and historical periods.  \nThe second workshop\, called The Art of Rubato\, examines phrase shaping\, expressivity\, and how the understanding of “counting time” influenced interpretation over the past two centuries.  \nTwo additional performance classes will give participants the opportunity to apply these insights in a supportive and inspiring setting. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAfter these\, time will be spent in private practice\, one-to-one tuition with Pavel – or an open lesson performance class in our Steinway recital room. Repertoire is completely open to personal preference\, spanning from late baroque right through to 20th century! You may wish to stick to a genre – or bring two constrasting eras for comparison. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe highlight of a weekend course is often our Saturday evening tutor recital talk. Pavel will treat guests to a concert of his most current repertoire. It is such a treat to sit in the main Finchcocks hall of the family home and listen to a private salon concert and it really does fit the description of an “extraordinary” and special occasion! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nOn this weekend course\, guests will: \n\nHave the chance to play in and observe two performance masterclasses.\nWill receive a one-to-one lesson with Pavel.\nEnjoy access to play on our 9 grand pianos anytime between 7am and 8pm. (There are enough pianos to go round that everyone can play a piano at any given time.)\nExperience a private salon concert in the main hall of the family home\, performed by Pavel.\nJoin and socialise with a group 8 fellow piano enthusiasts during lunch and dinner.\nDine in style with lunches and three course dinners prepared by our fabulous chef.\nExperience the Finchcocks bubble\, hailed as a “paradise for pianists” by BBC Music Magazine and stay in a grade 1 listed country manor.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPianist and composer PAVEL TIMOFEYEVSKY is quickly gaining a reputation as one of the most\nexciting and compelling artists emerging today. Audiences and press alike praise his playing for its\n“shimmering undertones\, transient reality and sunlit rays full of rapturous colours” (Pulse UK).\nPavel has performed at major concert venues in UK and worldwide which include the Royal\nFestival Hall\, Wigmore Hall\, Cadogan Hall\, Queen Elizabeth Hall\, Shanghai Oriental Centre for\nArts\, Mumbai National Centre for Performing Arts\, Guangzhou Opera House and the Linder\nAuditorium in Johannesburg. His New York debut at the renowned Merkin Hall at the Kaufman\nCenter has brought him invitations to debut in Italy (Florence)\, as well as tours in Kenya and South\nAfrica. Recent highlights include performing with the Hollywood Chamber Orchestra at the Fred\nKavli Theatre in Los Angeles. \nPavel is a sought-after composer. Winner of the BBC/Guardian Young Composer of the Year Award\,\nhe recently conducted a world premiere of his new work for orchestra at London’s Cadogan Hall.\nHe has composed music for several films and animation and has recorded the soundtrack and\nstarred in the US documentary “Tchaikovsky”. \nPavel is the Artistic Director of Philomel Creative Circle\, a concert series in London in residence at\nthe Francis Crick Institute and in St Cuthbert’s Church\, Earl’s Court. A passionate educator Pavel\nruns a summer school\, Philomel Music Academy\, that takes place at Yehudi Menuhin School in\nSurrey. \nIn 2023 Pavel was invited to become Music Director of Devon Opera and Artistic Director for\nNotable (formerly Golden Age Productions). He debuted with his own arrangement of Puccini’s\nTosca for both companies with the London performance featuring on Channel 4 News and\ngarnering high praise in “Opera” magazine. An eloquent speaker Pavel gives regular lecture-recitals\nfor Notable’s concert series in London. Since May 2024 Pavel is the artistic director of a chamber\nmusic and opera festival “Fêtes Musicales Saint-Maxime: Soirées Sous Les Etoiles” in St Maxime\,\nCôte D’Azur. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFor booking enquiries\, please contact fill in the form below. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  \n\n\n\n Your Name (required)\n \n \n Your Email (required)\n \n \n Which course date(s) are you interested in?\n \n \n Playing level / experience (required)\n \n \n Room price band:\nPlease selectClassic (standard)Considerable (large)Old Dairy (with own piano)\n\n \n Other room preferences: (please select most important one and we'll try to our best to accommodate)\nPlease selectEnsuiteWalk-in showerBath2nd floor3rd floorI'm easy!\n\n \n Please tell us anything else that you think would be helpful:\n \n \n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n	Weekend courses\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n	from £700 (inclusive of accommodation\, food\, wine and tuition)
URL:https://www.finchcocks.com/availability/the-versatile-pianist-with-pavel-timofeyevsky/
LOCATION:Kent
CATEGORIES:Advanced,Upper intermediate weekend
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.finchcocks.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Pavel-Timofeyevsky-headhot-2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260109T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260111T153000
DTSTAMP:20260509T032234
CREATED:20250722T070058Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250812T093922Z
UID:29956-1767985200-1768145400@www.finchcocks.com
SUMMARY:Retreat weekend with Sam Haywood - mixed ability - WAITING LIST
DESCRIPTION:Fancy a UK based\, luxury weekend away in a grade 1 listed country manor\, surrounded by grand pianos? \nOur 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 resolution! \nThere are no formal group sessions\, no performances and no stress! The weekend is open to pianists of all levels. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDuring the course of the weekend\, there will be time for private practice (or to buddy up for a duet!) 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. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWe welcome back concert pianist\, composer and arranger Sam Haywood for this retreat. Sam is a fantastic pianist\, with a warm\, encouraging approach to teaching – and a wealth of knowledge to back it up! (He may also bring with him his ever-encouraging canine sidekick\, Poppy who is great at putting guests at ease!) \nSam will be on hand for two optional one-to-one lessons over the course of the weekend\, and Saturday 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!). \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nOn the Saturday night\, Sam will perform a private recital of his current repertoire for retreat guests – an opportunity to relax and be inspired with a glass of wine in the magical setting of the main hall of Finchcocks – with a roaring fire to keep you cosy. \nSam has already chosen his programme! You can look forward to: \n\nGrieg’s Holberg Suite \nBeethoven’s Sonate Quasi una fantasia Op.27 No.2\nChopin’s Fantasie in F minor Op.49 \nand a selection of Chopin waltzes\n\nWhat a treat! \n\n\n\n\nWe 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! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe 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. \n\n\nDuring the course of their stay guests will: \n\nEnjoy access to play on our 9 grand pianos anytime between 7am and 8pm. (There are enough pianos to go round that everyone can play a piano at any given time.)\nBe able to book in two one-to-one lessons with our tutor.\nExperience a private recital for retreat guests in the main hall of the family home\, performed by our tutor.\nJoin and socialise with a group 8 fellow piano enthusiasts during lunch and dinner.\nDine in style with lunches and three course dinners prepared by our fabulous chef.\nExperience the Finchcocks bubble\, hailed as a “paradise for pianists” by BBC Music Magazine and stay in a grade 1 listed country manor.\nBe able to explore the Kentish countryside and local attractions should they wish a trip out.\n\nPlus 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. \n  \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis 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. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  \n\n\n\n Your Name (required)\n \n \n Your Email (required)\n \n \n Which course date(s) are you interested in?\n \n \n Playing level / experience (required)\n \n \n Room price band:\nPlease selectClassic (standard)Considerable (large)Old Dairy (with own piano)\n\n \n Other room preferences: (please select most important one and we'll try to our best to accommodate)\nPlease selectEnsuiteWalk-in showerBath2nd floor3rd floorI'm easy!\n\n \n Please tell us anything else that you think would be helpful:\n \n \n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n	Weekend courses\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n	from £700 (inclusive of accommodation\, food\, wine and tuition)
URL:https://www.finchcocks.com/availability/new-year-retreat-2026/
LOCATION:Kent
CATEGORIES:Advanced,Intermediate,Lower intermediate,Lower Intermediate Weekend,Upper intermediate,Upper intermediate weekend
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.finchcocks.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/2019-04-06-Finchcocks-Piano-schoolEd-Ovenden-004-Copy.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251212T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251214T153000
DTSTAMP:20260509T032234
CREATED:20240102T080034Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250605T102439Z
UID:28912-1765566000-1765726200@www.finchcocks.com
SUMMARY:Christmas at Finchcocks with  - mixed ability - WAITING LIST
DESCRIPTION:Experience the magic of Finchcocks during the festive season and escape Christmas craziness with this special retreat! \nRun by the wonderful Beatrice Nichols\, this mixed ability weekend aims to explore Christmas music written or arranged for piano\, accompanied by carols\, mince pies and of course mulled wine! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGet your festive party pieces ready for Christmas day… or whenever you’re put on the spot for some Christmas music! Guests can bring any pieces they would especially like to work on\, or you might choose from any of the following: \n\nThe Faber Music Christmas Piano Anthology\nTchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite for solo piano\nThe John Rutter Christmas Piano Album\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAs well as focussing on Christmas repertoire in performance classes\, a spotlight will also be given to Carols for choirs and Christmas songs you need up your sleeve in our two workshops. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIn between the workshop and masterclass sessions there will be time for private practice on one of our beautiful grand pianos. During these sessions\, Beatrice will give one-to-one lessons on our new Steinway to provide individual pointers and tips. \n\n\nOn the Saturday evening\, we’ll enjoy some carols and Beatrice will round off the evening with some of her own favourites on the family Bosendorfer. This is the chance to sit back and simply be inspired\, glass of wine in hand by the fireside. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGuests will: \n\nHave the chance to play in and observe two performance masterclasses.\nWill receive a one-to-one lesson with Beatrice.\nEnjoy access to play on our 9 grand pianos anytime between 7am and 8pm. (There are enough pianos to go round that everyone can play a piano at any given time.)\nExperience a private concert for course participants in the main hall of the family home\, performed by Beatrice\, including repertoire from her programme Christmas with Beactrice.\nJoin and socialise with a group 8 fellow piano enthusiasts during lunch and dinner.\nDine in style with lunches and three course dinners prepared by our fabulous chef.\nExperience the Finchcocks bubble\, hailed as a “paradise for pianists” by BBC Music Magazine and stay in a grade 1 listed country manor.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTo join in the festive fun\, please fill in the form below! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n	Weekend courses\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n	from £675 (inclusive of accommodation\, food\, wine and tuition)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  \n\n\n\n Your Name (required)\n \n \n Your Email (required)\n \n \n Which course date(s) are you interested in?\n \n \n Playing level / experience (required)\n \n \n Room price band:\nPlease selectClassic (standard)Considerable (large)Old Dairy (with own piano)\n\n \n Other room preferences: (please select most important one and we'll try to our best to accommodate)\nPlease selectEnsuiteWalk-in showerBath2nd floor3rd floorI'm easy!\n\n \n Please tell us anything else that you think would be helpful:
URL:https://www.finchcocks.com/availability/christmas-at-finchcocks-2025/
LOCATION:Kent
CATEGORIES:Advanced,Beginner weekend,Events,Intermediate,Lower intermediate,Lower Intermediate Weekend,Upper intermediate,Upper intermediate weekend
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.finchcocks.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/2019-04-06-Finchcocks-Piano-schoolEd-Ovenden-006-Copy.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251128T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251130T153000
DTSTAMP:20260509T032234
CREATED:20250102T080041Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250515T110906Z
UID:28906-1764324000-1764516600@www.finchcocks.com
SUMMARY:Beethoven 3-day course with Graham Fitch - advanced - WAITING LIST
DESCRIPTION:Come\, immerse yourself in the sound world of one of the most significant composers of Western classical music!\n\nOn this Advanced ability three-day course dedicated to the music of Beethoven\, Graham Fitch will guide you in exploring the physical\, emotional and intellectual challenges of the great composer’s music\, paying particular attention to the interpretation of the numerous markings for dynamics and articulation that we find on every page of Beethoven’s music.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDuring your stay\, Graham will devote a workshop to how Beethoven’s style changed throughout the span of his so-called three periods\, ending with a presentation of a selection of his music.\n\nWorkshop titles will include:\n\nTechnique & practice: Solving problems in Beethoven’s music\nStyle and interpretation: Bringing Beethoven’s music to life\nProblem solving: Technique\, style and practice-related questions\n\nPlease bring a Beethoven piece (or two) with you to work on in private practice\, performance workshops and masterclasses. You may also like to bring another piece by a different composer of the same era – or otherwise – for variety and comparison!\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \nOn Saturday evening\, Graham will talk and play guests through one of his favourite Beethoven pieces\, whilst they discover a deeper understanding of the music in an inspiring setting! \n \nThere can be few people in the world more qualified to talk to us about practice techniques than Graham. Author of his blog www.practisingthepiano.com and his own online piano academy\, Graham’s ideas for healthy piano technique and practice tips attract followers from across the world. He will also offer a broader workshops on healthy piano and practice technique to compliment the programme. \n \nIn between the workshop and masterclass sessions there will be time for private practice on one of our beautiful grand pianos including our new Steinway. \nGuests will also: \n\nHave the chance to play in and observe two performance masterclasses.\nWill receive a one-to-one lesson with Graham.\nEnjoy access to play on our 9 grand pianos anytime between 7am and 8pm. (There are enough pianos to go round that everyone can play a piano at any given time.)\nExperience a private walk-through performance talk for course participants in the main hall of the family home\, performed by Graham.\nJoin and socialise with a group 8 fellow piano enthusiasts during lunch and dinner.\nDine in style with lunches and three course dinners prepared by our fabulous chef.\nExperience the Finchcocks bubble\, hailed as a “paradise for pianists” by BBC Music Magazine and stay in a grade 1 listed country manor.\n\nPlus-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. \n \nThe course is intended for Advanced players beyond grade 8 who are keen to bring their favourite works by Beethoven to life. It might well be that there’s a piece that you’ve been struggling with for years that you would desperately like to perfect\, or equally there might be something you’ve always wanted to play\, but haven’t yet had the chance to really work on. \nFor booking enquiries\, please fill in the form below. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n	3-day courses\n\n	from £825 (inclusive of accommodation\, tuition and all food and wine)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  \n\n\n\n Your Name (required)\n \n \n Your Email (required)\n \n \n Which course date(s) are you interested in?\n \n \n Playing level / experience (required)\n \n \n Room price band:\nPlease selectClassic (standard)Considerable (large)Old Dairy (with own piano)\n\n \n Other room preferences: (please select most important one and we'll try to our best to accommodate)\nPlease selectEnsuiteWalk-in showerBath2nd floor3rd floorI'm easy!\n\n \n Please tell us anything else that you think would be helpful:\n \n \n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n...
URL:https://www.finchcocks.com/availability/beethoven-weekend-with-graham-fitch-mixed-ability-2025/
LOCATION:Kent
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.finchcocks.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Graham-Fitch.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251121T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251123T153000
DTSTAMP:20260509T032234
CREATED:20250102T080048Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241211T112119Z
UID:28916-1763751600-1763911800@www.finchcocks.com
SUMMARY:Keyboard Music from the Baroque with Steven Devine - mixed ability
DESCRIPTION:We are delighted to be offering a course with brilliantly talented keyboard player and Early Keyboard Consultant to the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire and Royal Welsh Colleges\, Steven Devine. \nDuring this weekend course Keyboard Music from the Baroque\, Steven Devine will explore this incredibly fertile period of keyboard music\, looking at style\, technique\, repertoire and instruments. Although intended for pianists – teaching will be delivered on our Steinway and other beautiful grand pianos – a harpsichord and/ or clavichord will be in residence for the duration of the course so that guests can explore what these instruments can reveal in our interpretation. \nThe course is suitable for pianists playing at an intermediate to advanced level. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAs well as a one-to-one lesson with Steven\, weekend tuition will include two workshops and the chance to play in and observe two performance masterclasses also. Themes to be explored are: \n\nBaroque Music – a question of style\nThere’s not only Bach…\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n“He’s building a reputation as an outstanding recitalist; this completion of his ‘48’ is a highly satisfying account.” BBC Music Magzine November 2020 \n\nOn Saturday evening\, guests can sit back and relax in the main hall of the family home and enjoy a performance by Steven himself. This is an opportunity to hear an artist regularly featured on BBC Radio 3 perform an exclusive private concert in a relaxed setting. An inspirational treat not to be missed! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDuring their stay\, guests will also: \n\nEnjoy access to play on our 9 grand pianos anytime between 7am and 8pm. (There are enough pianos to go round that everyone can play a piano at any given time.)\nJoin and socialise with a group 8 fellow piano enthusiasts during lunch and dinner.\nDine in style with lunches and three course dinners prepared by our fabulous chef.\nExperience the Finchcocks bubble\, hailed as a “paradise for pianists” by BBC Music Magazine and stay in a grade 1 listed country manor.\n\nPlus 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. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSteven Devine enjoys a busy career as a music director and keyboard player working with some of the finest musicians. \nHe is the Principal Keyboard Player with the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment and also the principal keyboard player for The Gonzaga Band\, The Mozartists and performs regularly with many other groups around Europe. He has recorded over thirty discs with other artists and ensembles and made six solo recordings. His recording of Bach’s Goldberg Variations (Chandos Records) has received critical acclaim – including Gramophone magazine describing it as “among the best”. The complete harpsichord works of Rameau (Resonus) has received five-star reviews from BBC Music Magazine. Steven has recently released  Bach’s Well-Tempered Clavier (“it’s the one of all I’ve heard in the past ten years that I am happiest to live with.” Early Music Review)  – available on this site. \nHe made his London conducting debut in 2002 at the Royal Albert Hall and is now a regular performer there – including making his Proms directing debut in August 2007 with the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment. He has conducted the Mozart Festival Orchestra in every major concert hall in the UK and also across Switzerland. Steven is Music Director for New Chamber Opera in Oxford and with them has performed repertoire from Cavalli to Rossini. For the Dartington Festival Opera he has conducted Handel’s Orlando and Purcell’s Dido and Aeneas. He is currently conductor and Artistic Advisor for the English Haydn Festival in Bridgnorth. \nSteven works regularly with the Norwegian Wind Ensemble\, Trondheim Barokk\, the Victoria Baroque Players (BC\, Canada) and Arion Baroque Ensemble (Montreal). \nHe is Early Keyboard Consultant to the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire and Royal Welsh Colleges\, and teaches fortepiano at the Royal Academy of Music. \nFinally\, Steven is thrilled to be a member of the ground-breaking Art of Moog: an electronic music group specialising in the performance of Bach. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFor booking enquiries\, please contact Jenny by filling in the form below. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n	Weekend courses\n\n	from £675 (inclusive of accommodation\, tuition and all food and wine)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  \n\n\n\n Your Name (required)\n \n \n Your Email (required)\n \n \n Which course date(s) are you interested in?\n \n \n Playing level / experience (required)\n \n \n Room price band:\nPlease selectClassic (standard)Considerable (large)Old Dairy (with own piano)\n\n \n Other room preferences: (please select most important one and we'll try to our best to accommodate)\nPlease selectEnsuiteWalk-in showerBath2nd floor3rd floorI'm easy!\n\n \n Please tell us anything else that you think would be helpful:
URL:https://www.finchcocks.com/availability/keyboard-music-from-the-baroque-with-steven-devine-mixed-ability-2025/
LOCATION:Finchcocks\, Finchcocks\, Goudhurst\, Kent\, TN17 1HH\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Advanced,Intermediate,Upper intermediate,Upper intermediate weekend
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.finchcocks.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Steven-Devine-2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251031T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251102T153000
DTSTAMP:20260509T032234
CREATED:20250102T080009Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250402T140700Z
UID:28961-1761904800-1762097400@www.finchcocks.com
SUMMARY:3-day Intermediate course with David Hall
DESCRIPTION:Our 3-day course for Intermediate pianists is designed to allow a bit more space to take things at slower pace and in more depth. It also offers chance for our Lower Intermediates to progress onto the next step if they’ve been considering it a while! \nAimed at pianists around grades 4-6 playing level\, the course is led by our Music Director and author of There’s more to playing piano David Hall. Guests can expect his signature inspiration alongside an encouraging and flexible teaching style. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDuring your stay\, David will cover the following topics in his interactive workshops: \n\nWorkshop 1 – Making the most of your weekend. How to:\n– practice efficiently and effectively\n– structure a practice session\n– ensure practice is creative and enjoyable\n\nWorkshop 2 – There’s More to Playing the Piano Part 1\nExploring intervals\, chords and lead sheets. \n\n\nWorkshop 3 – There’s More to Playing the Piano Part 2\nTips for developing sight-reading and aural skills.\n\n\nThere will also 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. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nOn the Saturday night\, David will perform a private salon concert 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! \n\n\n\n\nWe 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! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDuring the course of their stay guests will: \n\nEnjoy access to play on our 9 grand pianos anytime between 7am and 8pm. (There are enough pianos to go round that everyone can play a piano at any given time.)\nEnjoy a one-to-one lesson with our tutor.\nExperience a private recital for retreat guests in the main hall of the family home\, performed by our tutor.\nJoin and socialise with a group 8 fellow piano enthusiasts during lunch and dinner.\nDine in style with lunches and three course dinners prepared by our fabulous chef.\nExperience the Finchcocks bubble\, hailed as a “paradise for pianists” by BBC Music Magazine and stay in a grade 1 listed country manor.\nBe able to explore the Kentish countryside and local attractions should they wish a trip out.\n\nPlus 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. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nStarting at 10am on the Friday\, this extended stay gives upper intermediate pianists chance to really absorb and embed new tips and strategies into their playing. If it sounds of interest\, please drop Jenny a line using the form below. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  \n\n\n\n Your Name (required)\n \n \n Your Email (required)\n \n \n Which course date(s) are you interested in?\n \n \n Playing level / experience (required)\n \n \n Room price band:\nPlease selectClassic (standard)Considerable (large)Old Dairy (with own piano)\n\n \n Other room preferences: (please select most important one and we'll try to our best to accommodate)\nPlease selectEnsuiteWalk-in showerBath2nd floor3rd floorI'm easy!\n\n \n Please tell us anything else that you think would be helpful:\n \n \n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n	3-day courses\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n	from £825 (inclusive of accommodation\, food\, wine and tuition)
URL:https://www.finchcocks.com/availability/3-day-intermediate-course-with-david-hall-2025/
LOCATION:Kent
CATEGORIES:Intermediate
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.finchcocks.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/David-Hall-zoom-2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251017T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251021T153000
DTSTAMP:20260509T032234
CREATED:20250102T080013Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250813T120944Z
UID:28962-1760697000-1761060600@www.finchcocks.com
SUMMARY:5-day Advanced Autumn School with Florian Mitrea - WAITING LIST
DESCRIPTION:We know advanced pianists will be absolutely delighted to have another opportunity to spend five days learning from and being inspired by the inimitable Florian Mitrea. Below\, he describes his plan for the Finchcocks 2025 autumn school course for advanced pianists (beyond grade 8\, preparing for – or at – diploma standard\, or higher). \nOur 5-day courses are a well established highlight of the Finchcocks calendar. To ensure a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere\, places are open to those who have attended at least one weekend Finchcocks course previously. \n\n\n“To put it very simply\, this course is about rediscovering or nurturing the joy of piano playing. We are offering an immersive experience\, tailored specifically for participants looking to enhance their playing by focusing on what makes piano playing such an enriching experience – the pleasure of revisiting the old classics and discovering new repertoire\, the thrill of mastering a difficult passage\, or the excitement of sharing your music-making with others. \n Comprising workshops\, performance masterclass type tuition\, and personalised individual lessons\, the course will also offer the chance to perform in front of a supportive group\, as a way to bolster your confidence. My teaching will be channelled on giving clear and practical technical guidance (including discussing practice methodology\, exercises and etudes\, or repertoire planning)\, while also fostering your interpretative skills\, artistic freedom\, and stylistic awareness. My ultimate aim is to create a supportive\, nurturing environment for you to focus on your musical journey.” \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLike our weekend courses\, formal tuition takes place in workshops\, performance classes and one-to-one lessons. \n\nWorkshop 1: Discovering the language of Beethoven This workshop dives deep into the intricacies of Beethoven’s piano works\, focusing on the art of interpreting his revolutionary notation and transforming it into expressive live performances. Through demonstrations and individual exercises\, you will develop a thorough understanding of Beethoven’s musical intentions as expressed in his notation. No prior preparation of any Beethoven repertoire is required\, as the course highlights how mastering his notational style can enrich your approach to music by any other composer\, given his pivotal influence on modern music notation.\nWorkshop 2: Mozart\, between the voice and the piano We will be exploring the profound connection between Mozart’s operas —his pinnacle artistic achievements— and his piano repertoire\, revealing how his vocal mastery shaped his keyboard compositions. Together\, we will analyse Mozart’s notation to uncover its vocal qualities\, discussing essential topics such as pedalling\, fingering\, phrasing\, and stylistic nuance. Drawing inspiration from recordings of celebrated opera singers\, you will learn to infuse your piano playing with the expressive depth and clarity of Mozart’s vocal writing. The course will involve prior learning of a simple 8-bar passage by Mozart and bringing it to the class for discussion.\nWorkshop 3: It’s about time! Unlocking the secrets of rhythm\, this course is designed to deepen your understanding of timing and rhythmic patterns across classical music’s diverse eras. Explore how composers from different periods used rhythm uniquely to shape their musical language. Through hands-on exercises\, this course will help you internalise pulse\, enhancing your ability to feel and maintain a steady tempo. By developing a strong internal sense of rhythm\, you will gain greater control over the speed and flow of your piano playing.\nWorkshop 4: The technique of the soul When we think of piano technique\, we often picture fast\, accurate finger movements—but true artistry goes beyond mechanics. The Technique of the Soul invites you to explore a deeper dimension of musical expression: the ability to channel your emotions with purpose and precision. This course focuses on transforming instinctive feelings into deliberate interpretations that resonate with both you and your audience. Discover how to bridge the gap between raw emotion and a moving performance.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAs usual\, everyone will have access to their own grand piano for the week including our new Steinway\, and have plenty of time to practise in our vaulted piano cellar. \nWe’ll also plan in some downtime for you! Weather permitting\, we’ll exploring the private gardens at Finchcocks\, discover the beautiful Kentish countryside or exploring nearby Scotney Castle. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAnd of course\, it goes without saying that you can expect the usual! \nGuests will: \n\nHave the chance to play in and observe multiple performance masterclasses.\nWill receive one-to-one lessons with Florian.\nEnjoy access to play on our 9 grand pianos anytime between 7am and 8pm. (There are enough pianos to go round that everyone can play a piano at any given time.)\nExperience a salon-style concert performed by Florian exclusively for guests.\nHave the chance to take part in a recital on the Bosendorfer in the main hall of the family home.\nJoin and socialise with a group 8 fellow piano enthusiasts during lunch and dinner.\nDine in style with lunches and three course dinners prepared by our fabulous chef.\nExperience the Finchcocks bubble\, hailed as a “paradise for pianists” by BBC Music Magazine and stay in a grade 1 listed country manor.\n\nPlus 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. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis is a unique\, luxury UK-based piano gem and an experience that you won’t forget anytime soon. Many guests continue friendships made on these courses\, encouraging each other on in the piano playing on Whatsapp\, organising private piano meet ups further down the line… and bumping into each other again on future courses! \nFor booking enquiries\, please fill in the form below. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n	5-day courses\n\n	from £1450 (inclusive of accommodation\, tuition and all food and wine)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  \n\n\n\n Your Name (required)\n \n \n Your Email (required)\n \n \n Which course date(s) are you interested in?\n \n \n Playing level / experience (required)\n \n \n Room price band:\nPlease selectClassic (standard)Considerable (large)Old Dairy (with own piano)\n\n \n Other room preferences: (please select most important one and we'll try to our best to accommodate)\nPlease selectEnsuiteWalk-in showerBath2nd floor3rd floorI'm easy!\n\n \n Please tell us anything else that you think would be helpful:\n \n \n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n...
URL:https://www.finchcocks.com/availability/5-day-advanced-autumn-school-with-florian-mitrea-2025/
LOCATION:Kent
CATEGORIES:Advanced
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.finchcocks.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Florian-10.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251003T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251005T153000
DTSTAMP:20260509T032234
CREATED:20250102T080048Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250821T105945Z
UID:28950-1759518000-1759678200@www.finchcocks.com
SUMMARY:Chopin weekend with Sam Haywood - upper intermediate - advanced - WAITING LIST
DESCRIPTION:Back by very popular demand\, this will be our seventh Chopin weekend here at Finchcocks\, this time with new\, permanent member of our Finchcocks team – international concert pianist Sam Haywood! \n\n\n\nChopin’s lyrical and elegant Nocturnes and Preludes are firm favourites with our Upper Intermediate\, Advanced and Diploma+ players\, and so we’re very excited to announce the return of our very popular composer-specific weekend.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBoth Satuday and Sunday begin with an interactive workshop\, led by the tutor. This course will include:\n\n\nChopin the Teacher \nAn exploration of Chopin’s teaching method and style\, based on anecdotal evidence from friends and pupils.\n\n\nChopin’s Formative Years in Paris\n\nA discussion about how the vibrant musical scene and Chopin’s acquaintances in Paris influenced his development.\n\n\n\nAfternoons are spent exploring and enjoying each other’s repertoire\, applying new gained knowledge in performance classes – as well as some private practice! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIn between the workshop and performance masterclass sessions there will be time for private practice on one of our beautiful grand pianos. During these sessions\, Sam will give one-to-one lessons on our new Steinway to provide individual pointers and tips. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGuests will also: \n\nHave the chance to play in and observe two performance masterclasses.\nWill receive a one-to-one lesson with Sam.\nEnjoy access to play on our 9 grand pianos anytime between 7am and 8pm. (There are enough pianos to go round that everyone can play a piano at any given time.)\nExperience a private accompanied talk for course participants in the main hall of the family home\, performed by Sam.\nJoin and socialise with a group 8 fellow piano enthusiasts during lunch and dinner.\nDine in style with lunches and three course dinners prepared by our fabulous chef.\nExperience the Finchcocks bubble\, hailed as a “paradise for pianists” by BBC Music Magazine and stay in a grade 1 listed country manor.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHere’s Sam entertaining the neighbourhood with some Chopin during lockdown! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFor booking enquiries\, please fill in the form below… \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  \n\n\n\n Your Name (required)\n \n \n Your Email (required)\n \n \n Which course date(s) are you interested in?\n \n \n Playing level / experience (required)\n \n \n Room price band:\nPlease selectClassic (standard)Considerable (large)Old Dairy (with own piano)\n\n \n Other room preferences: (please select most important one and we'll try to our best to accommodate)\nPlease selectEnsuiteWalk-in showerBath2nd floor3rd floorI'm easy!\n\n \n Please tell us anything else that you think would be helpful:\n \n \n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n	from £675 (inclusive of accommodation\, food\, wine and tuition)
URL:https://www.finchcocks.com/availability/chopin-weekend-with-sam-haywood-2025/
LOCATION:Kent
CATEGORIES:Advanced,Mixed ability,Upper intermediate weekend
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.finchcocks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Sam-Haywood-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250919T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250921T153000
DTSTAMP:20260509T032234
CREATED:20250102T080057Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250806T120320Z
UID:28942-1758308400-1758468600@www.finchcocks.com
SUMMARY:The foundations of effective practice and performance weekend with Graham Fitch - upper intermediate - WAITING LIST
DESCRIPTION:It’s not often we are able to schedule a weekend for Upper Intermediate players with internationally renowned pianist\, piano teacher and practice guru Graham Fitch. But we were determined to do so for 2025! \nAimed at around grades 6-8\, the weekend course offers an insight into the foundations needed for effective practice and performance\, as well as long-lasting\, reliable results. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe weekend will comprise of two interactive workshops and two performance classes\, as well as a one-to-one lesson with Graham. \nUsing examples from the repertoire suggested by Graham – as well as those presented by the group – we will explore practice ideas to learn notes\, solve technical and musical problems\, and assist with memorisation. Please bring along problem spots from your pieces\, as well as questions that we will address in the workshops.  \nAs usual\, we suggest bringing a couple of pieces with you that are performance ready to work on privately and in a group setting. They don’t need to be perfect – just ready to polish up! \n\nGraham Fitch sits at a Steinway piano in a blue shirt and jeans demonstrating a piece to a student. The student stands at the piano in the background making notes. She has blonde hair\, glasses and wears a daark patterned shirt. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIn between the workshop and perforamnce class sessions\, there will be time for private practice on one of our beautiful grand pianos. During these sessions\, Graham will give one-to-one lessons on our new Steinway to provide individual pointers and tips. \nOn the Saturday evening\, Graham will whet your appetite for exploring new pieces\, by performing a selection of accessible repertoire you might not have heard of. You might even be tempted to try techniques from Sunday’s workshop on one that takes your fancy! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nOver the course of the weekend\, guests will: \n\nHave the chance to play in and observe two performance masterclasses.\nWill receive a one-to-one lesson with Graham.\nEnjoy access to play on our 9 grand pianos anytime between 7am and 8pm. (There are enough pianos to go round that everyone can play a piano at any given time.)\nExperience a private recital of inspiring intermediate pieces in the main hall of the family home\, performed by Graham.\nJoin and socialise with a group 8 fellow piano enthusiasts during lunch and dinner.\nDine in style with lunches and three course dinners prepared by our fabulous chef.\nExperience the Finchcocks bubble\, hailed as a “paradise for pianists” by BBC Music Magazine and stay in a grade 1 listed country manor.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  \n\n\n\n Your Name (required)\n \n \n Your Email (required)\n \n \n Which course date(s) are you interested in?\n \n \n Playing level / experience (required)\n \n \n Room price band:\nPlease selectClassic (standard)Considerable (large)Old Dairy (with own piano)\n\n \n Other room preferences: (please select most important one and we'll try to our best to accommodate)\nPlease selectEnsuiteWalk-in showerBath2nd floor3rd floorI'm easy!\n\n \n Please tell us anything else that you think would be helpful:\n \n \n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n	Weekend courses\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n	from £675 (inclusive of accommodation\, food\, wine and tuition)
URL:https://www.finchcocks.com/availability/foundations-of-effective-practice-with-graham-fitch/
LOCATION:Kent
CATEGORIES:Upper intermediate,Upper intermediate weekend
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.finchcocks.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Graham-Fitch.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250905T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250907T153000
DTSTAMP:20260509T032234
CREATED:20250102T080043Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250520T134055Z
UID:28940-1757098800-1757259000@www.finchcocks.com
SUMMARY:Retreat weekend with Florian Mitrea - mixed ability - WAITING LIST
DESCRIPTION:Fancy a UK based\, luxury weekend away in a grade 1 listed country manor\, surrounded by grand pianos? \nOur 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 get you back into playing! \nThere are no formal group sessions\, no performances and no stress! The weekend is open to pianists of all levels. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDuring 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. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWe’re incredibly lucky to have secured the services of Florian Mitrea for this retreat. A very popular member of the Finchcocks team and a phenomenal international concert pianist\, guests always leave truly inspired from their stay on one Florian’s courses. \nFlorian will be on hand for two optional 40 minute 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!). \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E-TvboSQ4t0&t=482s\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nOn the Saturday night\, Florian will perform a private salon concert 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. \n\n\nWe have one grand piano available for every guest in our vaulted cellars\, including our new Steinway. Piano conversation will flow freely over coffee and homemade biscuits and cakes in between bouts of practice! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe 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. \n\n\nDuring the course of their stay guests will: \n\nEnjoy access to play on our 9 grand pianos anytime between 7am and 8pm. (There are enough pianos to go round that everyone can play a piano at any given time.)\nBe able to book in two one-to-one lessons with our tutor.\nExperience a private recital for retreat guests in the main hall of the family home\, performed by our tutor.\nJoin and socialise with a group 8 fellow piano enthusiasts during lunch and dinner.\nDine in style with lunches and three course dinners prepared by our fabulous chef.\nExperience the Finchcocks bubble\, hailed as a “paradise for pianists” by BBC Music Magazine and stay in a grade 1 listed country manor.\nBe able to explore the Kentish countryside and local attractions should they wish a trip out.\n\nPlus 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. \n  \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis 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. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  \n\n\n\n Your Name (required)\n \n \n Your Email (required)\n \n \n Which course date(s) are you interested in?\n \n \n Playing level / experience (required)\n \n \n Room price band:\nPlease selectClassic (standard)Considerable (large)Old Dairy (with own piano)\n\n \n Other room preferences: (please select most important one and we'll try to our best to accommodate)\nPlease selectEnsuiteWalk-in showerBath2nd floor3rd floorI'm easy!\n\n \n Please tell us anything else that you think would be helpful:\n \n \n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n	Weekend courses\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n	from £675 (inclusive of accommodation\, food\, wine and tuition)
URL:https://www.finchcocks.com/availability/retreat-weekend-with-florian-mitrea-mixed-ability-2025/
LOCATION:Kent
CATEGORIES:Advanced,Lower intermediate,Lower Intermediate Weekend,Mixed ability,Upper intermediate,Upper intermediate weekend
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.finchcocks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Spring-flowers-piano-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250815T180000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250817T170000
DTSTAMP:20260509T032234
CREATED:20240920T070007Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240914T170843Z
UID:28292-1755280800-1755450000@www.finchcocks.com
SUMMARY:Finchcocks Festival
DESCRIPTION:Join us for a triple treat of an English country garden\, live music festival and nab an exclusive chance to make a weekend of it in one of 9 of our luxury bedrooms for the duration (with access to our pianos too). A chance to immerse yourself in the musical magic of Finchcocks\, without having to think about the journey back – for at least a couple of days! \nIt’s also a great opportunity to share our piano bubble with loved ones who have heard so much about it! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIncluded in the room price of £450 is: \n\nBed and breakfast for up to two people\nFree attendance at both music events*\nTwo nights accommodation in our beautiful grade-1 listed manor house**\nAccess to our pianos between the hours of 7am and 8pm\n\n*Sunday’s act to be confirmed.\n**Friday and Saturday\, unless by request. Check-in from 6pm on the Friday. Checkout after Sunday’s performance. \nTo snap up this bargain\, fill in the form below! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  \n\n\n\n Your Name (required)\n \n \n Your Email (required)\n \n \n Which course date(s) are you interested in?\n \n \n Playing level / experience (required)\n \n \n Room price band:\nPlease selectClassic (standard)Considerable (large)Old Dairy (with own piano)\n\n \n Other room preferences: (please select most important one and we'll try to our best to accommodate)\nPlease selectEnsuiteWalk-in showerBath2nd floor3rd floorI'm easy!\n\n \n Please tell us anything else that you think would be helpful:
URL:https://www.finchcocks.com/availability/finchcocks-festival/
LOCATION:Kent
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.finchcocks.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Finchcocks-1-banner.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250804T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250808T153000
DTSTAMP:20260509T032234
CREATED:20240920T070024Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250501T094231Z
UID:28593-1754303400-1754667000@www.finchcocks.com
SUMMARY:5-day Piano holiday! - mixed ability - WAITING LIST
DESCRIPTION:This 5-day piano holiday went down a storm last year so we’ve added it to our regular offering. This is our most relaxed course ever and a pianist’s dream Finchcocks stay: a 5-day 5-star Piano Holiday! \nThis extended piano retreat offers the chance to spend mornings at the piano in a 30-minute one-to-one lesson with the wonderful Sam Haywood\, as well as enjoying free practice-time. Afternoons will be devoted to leisure (and of course more piano if you’d like!) \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nUsually\, our course timetables are more focussed to structured learning. The Piano Holiday will be a musical escape duetting with plenty of relaxing! \nAfternoon/ evening activities will include (subject to weather and change): \n\nA guided tour of the Finchcocks gardens by our Head Gardener\nA morning swim in our outdoor heated pool\nA walk and visit to beautiful neighbouring Scotney Castle\nA tour of a typical Wealden (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) hop trail\nA group (garden) yoga/ Alexander Technique session\nPlenty of opportunity to play duets\nThe opportunity to book the Steinway recital room to (video)record your playing\nThe opportunity to take part in an informal guest performance in main hall on the family Bosendorfer\nFree access to Finchcocks music library\n\nAnd of course\, socialising with fellow piano enthusiasts for a whole week! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAs usual\, everyone will have access to their own grand piano for the week including our new Steinway\, and have plenty of time to practise in our vaulted piano cellar. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAnd of course\, it goes without saying that you can expect the usual! \nPiano holiday guests will: \n\nReceive daily one-to-one lessons.\nEnjoy access to play on our 9 grand pianos anytime between 7am and 8pm. (There are enough pianos to go round that everyone can play a piano at any given time.)\nExperience a private recital for course participants in the main hall of the family home\, performed by our tutor.\nJoin and socialise with a group 8 fellow piano enthusiasts during lunch and dinner.\nDine in style with lunches and three course dinners prepared by our fabulous chef.\nExperience the Finchcocks bubble\, hailed as a “paradise for pianists” by BBC Music Magazine and stay in a grade 1 listed country manor.\n\nPlus 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. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis is a UK-based gem of a piano holiday and one that you won’t forget anytime soon! Many guests continue friendships made on these courses\, encouraging each other on in the piano playing… and bumping into each other again on future courses! \nTo ensure a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere\, priority is given to those who have attended at least one weekend Finchcocks course previously. \nFor booking enquiries\, please fill in the form below. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n	5-day courses\n\n	from £1450 (inclusive of accommodation\, tuition and all food and wine)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  \n\n\n\n Your Name (required)\n \n \n Your Email (required)\n \n \n Which course date(s) are you interested in?\n \n \n Playing level / experience (required)\n \n \n Room price band:\nPlease selectClassic (standard)Considerable (large)Old Dairy (with own piano)\n\n \n Other room preferences: (please select most important one and we'll try to our best to accommodate)\nPlease selectEnsuiteWalk-in showerBath2nd floor3rd floorI'm easy!\n\n \n Please tell us anything else that you think would be helpful:\n \n \n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n...
URL:https://www.finchcocks.com/availability/5-day-piano-holiday-2025/
LOCATION:Kent
CATEGORIES:Advanced,Beginner,Intermediate,Lower intermediate,Upper intermediate,Upper intermediate week
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.finchcocks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Black-Renaissance.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250721T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250725T153000
DTSTAMP:20260509T032234
CREATED:20240920T070020Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250715T143647Z
UID:28601-1753093800-1753457400@www.finchcocks.com
SUMMARY:5-day Intermediate Summer School with David Hall - WAITING LIST
DESCRIPTION:Our 5-day summer schools are a well established highlight of the Finchcocks calendar. To ensure a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere\, priority is given to those who have attended at least one weekend Finchcocks course previously. \nThis 5-day piano retreat for intermediate players offers pianists grades around grades 4 to 6\, the chance to fully emerse themselves in all that Finchcocks has to offer. The course aims to provide a luxury break away\, the chance to practise on our 9 grand pianos without any distraction\, challenge guests with new techniques and explore their own playing under the inspiring supervision of our Musical Director David Hall (MA\, FRCO\, LRSM) and author of There’s more to playing the piano… \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nEach day will begin with a new\, specific warm-up to provide a focus for practice or performance. Like our weekend courses\, formal tuition takes place in workshops\, performance classes and one-to-one lessons. \nThis year’s focuses will be: \n\nWorkshop: Making the most of your Five Days\nPerformance class: Bringing Your Music to Life\nWorkshop: C Major is more than a Scale\nPerformance class: Bringing Your Music to Life 2\nWorkshop: Using the Cycle of 5ths as a Practice Tool\nWorkshop: 10-week plan to improve your Sight-Reading\nPerformance class: Understanding your Repertoire\nWorkshop: Understanding Style\n\nDavid’s Listen and Learn activity always gets conversation going round the dining table too – and provides a launch pad to explore new technique and repertoire as well! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAs usual\, everyone will have access to their own grand piano for the week including our new Steinway\, and have plenty of time to practise in our vaulted piano cellar. \nWe’ll also have a bit of fun! In addition to a private recital in the hall of the main house or on our new open-air stage (weather permitting!)\, we’ll explore the private gardens at Finchcocks\, experience a local wine tasting\, be able to go for beautiful Kentish countryside walks to Scotney castle and enjoy a session or two in the family’s new heated swimming pool. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAnd of course\, it goes without saying that you can expect the usual! \nSummer School guests will: \n\nHave the chance to play in and observe multiple performance masterclasses.\nWill receive one-to-one lessons with David.\nEnjoy access to play on our 9 grand pianos anytime between 7am and 8pm. (There are enough pianos to go round that everyone can play a piano at any given time.)\nExperience a private recital for course participants in the main hall of the family home\, performed by David.\nJoin and socialise with a group 8 fellow piano enthusiasts during lunch and dinner.\nDine in style with lunches and three course dinners prepared by our fabulous chef.\nExperience the Finchcocks bubble\, hailed as a “paradise for pianists” by BBC Music Magazine and stay in a grade 1 listed country manor.\n\nPlus 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. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis is a UK-based gem of a piano holiday and one that you won’t forget anytime soon! Many guests continue friendships made on these courses\, encouraging each other on in the piano playing… and bumping into each other again on future courses! \nFor booking enquiries\, please fill in the form below. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n	5-day courses\n\n	from £1450 (inclusive of accommodation\, tuition and all food and wine)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  \n\n\n\n Your Name (required)\n \n \n Your Email (required)\n \n \n Which course date(s) are you interested in?\n \n \n Playing level / experience (required)\n \n \n Room price band:\nPlease selectClassic (standard)Considerable (large)Old Dairy (with own piano)\n\n \n Other room preferences: (please select most important one and we'll try to our best to accommodate)\nPlease selectEnsuiteWalk-in showerBath2nd floor3rd floorI'm easy!\n\n \n Please tell us anything else that you think would be helpful:\n \n \n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n...
URL:https://www.finchcocks.com/availability/intermediate-summer-school-with-david-hall-2025/
LOCATION:Kent
CATEGORIES:Intermediate
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.finchcocks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Georgia-Ann-Dave.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250707T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250711T153000
DTSTAMP:20260509T032234
CREATED:20240920T070022Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250529T065742Z
UID:28595-1751884200-1752247800@www.finchcocks.com
SUMMARY:5-day Upper Intermediate Summer School with Graham Fitch
DESCRIPTION:Upper Intermediate players have the fantastic opportunity to study with the wonderfully inspiring Graham Fitch for five whole days on this summer school! \nThis summer piano retreat offers pianists grade 6 – approaching 8 the chance to fully emerse themselves in all that Finchcocks has to offer. The course aims to provide a luxury break away\, the chance to practise on our 9 grand pianos without any distraction\, challenge guests with new techniques and explore their own playing under the expert supervision of Graham Fitch. \nOur 5-day summer schools are a well established highlight of the Finchcocks calendar. To ensure a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere\, places are open to those who have attended at least one weekend Finchcocks course previously. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLike our weekend courses\, formal tuition takes place in workshops\, performance classes and one-to-one lessons. \nThis year’s focuses will be: \n\nTechnique and Practice Clinics: In these two workshops\, Graham will work with you on specific problem spots from a piece.\nDeveloping an Interpretation: There is no such thing as the one ideal interpretation of any piece\, but we do need a clear idea of what we want to say. This workshop will focus on how to develop narrative\, imagery and imagination in our playing for maximum communication in performance.\nThe Practice Toolbox: Just as a craftsman has specific tools for each job\, so the pianist needs to know how to identify and solve problems as we polish a piece.\nPreparing for Performance: We explore strategies that help us prepare for performance\, and techniques for dealing with anxiety.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAs usual\, everyone will have access to their own grand piano for the week including our new Steinway\, and have plenty of time to practise in our vaulted piano cellar. \nWe’ll also have a bit of fun! In addition to a private recital in the hall of the main house or on our new open-air stage (weather permitting!)\, we’ll explore the private gardens at Finchcocks\, experience a local wine tasting\, be able to go for beautiful Kentish countryside walks to Scotney castle and enjoy a session or two in the family’s new heated swimming pool. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAnd of course\, it goes without saying that you can expect the usual! \nGuests will: \n\nHave the chance to play in and observe multiple performance masterclasses.\nWill receive one-to-one lessons with Graham.\nEnjoy access to play on our 9 grand pianos anytime between 7am and 8pm. (There are enough pianos to go round that everyone can play a piano at any given time.)\nExperience a private walk-through performance talk for course participants in the main hall of the family home\, performed by Graham.\nJoin and socialise with a group 8 fellow piano enthusiasts during lunch and dinner.\nDine in style with lunches and three course dinners prepared by our fabulous chef.\nExperience the Finchcocks bubble\, hailed as a “paradise for pianists” by BBC Music Magazine and stay in a grade 1 listed country manor.\n\nPlus 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. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis is a UK-based gem of a piano holiday and one that you won’t forget anytime soon! Many guests continue friendships made on these courses\, encouraging each other on in the piano playing… and bumping into each other again on future courses! \nFor booking enquiries\, please fill in the form below. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n	5-day courses\n\n	from £1450 (inclusive of accommodation\, tuition and all food and wine)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  \n\n\n\n Your Name (required)\n \n \n Your Email (required)\n \n \n Which course date(s) are you interested in?\n \n \n Playing level / experience (required)\n \n \n Room price band:\nPlease selectClassic (standard)Considerable (large)Old Dairy (with own piano)\n\n \n Other room preferences: (please select most important one and we'll try to our best to accommodate)\nPlease selectEnsuiteWalk-in showerBath2nd floor3rd floorI'm easy!\n\n \n Please tell us anything else that you think would be helpful:\n \n \n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n...
URL:https://www.finchcocks.com/availability/5-day-upper-intermediate-school-with-graham-fitch-2025/
LOCATION:Finchcocks\, Finchcocks\, Goudhurst\, Kent\, TN17 1HH\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Advanced
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.finchcocks.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Outdoor-dining-s.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250613T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250615T153000
DTSTAMP:20260509T032234
CREATED:20240920T070015Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240921T095338Z
UID:28622-1749808800-1750001400@www.finchcocks.com
SUMMARY:3-day "Luxurious Playing" course with William Westney - upper intermediate - advanced - WAITING LIST
DESCRIPTION:We are thrilled to be welcoming back concert pianist and keynote speaker Professor William Westney\, as part of his visit to the UK\, to 2025’s programme – this time extended to three days! His previous visits have been extremely special for all involved so we can’t wait for more. \nThis 3-day course\, for upper intermediate to advanced level pianists\, focuses on musical communication\, physical enjoyment\, and addressing technical challenges in a healthy way. Principles from Dr. Westney’s best-selling book The Perfect Wrong Note (2003) and Eros at the Piano (2023) will naturally be incorporated into the sessions. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWilliam Westney is internationally known as a master artist\, master teacher and bestselling author. After winning the top piano prize in the Geneva International Competition\, he performed as concerto soloist and recitalist throughout the US\, Europe and Asia to critical acclaim. His innovative performance workshop\, The Un-Master Class®\, captured the attention of the New York Times\, which published a feature article on it; Westney has given the workshop hundreds of times around the world. In demand as a public speaker\, he has delivered keynote addresses at pedagogy conferences in Korea\, England\, and throughout the US. Articles based on his interdisciplinary research about performance have appeared in such scientific journals as Brain and Cognition. Westney’s celebrated book The Perfect Wrong Note has sold over 50\,000 copies worldwide and continues to be widely influential. He received the Frances Clark Keyboard Pedagogy Award from Music Teachers National Association in recognition of his unique contributions to music teaching. Dr. Westney recently retired after 42 years as Distinguished Professor and Artist-in-Residence at Texas Tech University. www.williamwestney.com \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDuring the three days\, William will include a lecture recital as well as offering a technical Problem Spots clinic for course guests.\n\nParticipants will also:\n\n\nHave the chance to play in and observe two performance “un-masterclasses“.\nEnjoy access to play on our 9 grand pianos anytime between 7am and 8pm. (There are enough pianos to go round that everyone can play a piano at any given time.)\nJoin and socialise with a group 8 fellow piano enthusiasts during lunch and dinner.\nDine in style with lunches and three course dinners prepared by our fabulous chef.\nExperience the Finchcocks bubble\, hailed as a “paradise for pianists” by BBC Music Magazine and stay in a grade 1 listed country manor.\n\nPlus 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. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAs well as a one-to-one lesson with William\, tuition will include three workshops and the chance to play in and observe two performance masterclasses also. Themes to be explored are: \n\n\nA quick warm-up that can change your life\n\n\nEffortless speed through “deconstructing” the scale\n\n\nTechnique Clinic: bring all your questions!\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIn between the workshop and performance class sessions\, there will be time for private practice on one of our beautiful grand pianos including our new Steinway. During these sessions\, William will drop in to each of the practice rooms to provide individual pointers and tips. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis is a fantastic opportunity to come and be inspired by a leading thinker\, teacher\, speaker and performer of the piano world. We can’t wait to experience his teaching in person and anticipate spaces to be snapped up very quickly. Book early to avoid disappointment! \nFor booking enquiries\, please fill in the form below. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n	Weekend courses\n\n	from £650 (inclusive of accommodation\, tuition and all food and wine)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  \n\n\n\n Your Name (required)\n \n \n Your Email (required)\n \n \n Which course date(s) are you interested in?\n \n \n Playing level / experience (required)\n \n \n Room price band:\nPlease selectClassic (standard)Considerable (large)Old Dairy (with own piano)\n\n \n Other room preferences: (please select most important one and we'll try to our best to accommodate)\nPlease selectEnsuiteWalk-in showerBath2nd floor3rd floorI'm easy!\n\n \n Please tell us anything else that you think would be helpful:\n \n \n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n...
URL:https://www.finchcocks.com/availability/luxurious-playing-with-william-westney/
LOCATION:Kent
CATEGORIES:Advanced,Upper intermediate
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.finchcocks.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/William-Westney-headshot.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250530T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250601T153000
DTSTAMP:20260509T032234
CREATED:20240920T070038Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250502T112727Z
UID:28625-1748631600-1748791800@www.finchcocks.com
SUMMARY:Enjoying Sight-reading weekend with David Hall - mixed ability - WAITING LIST
DESCRIPTION:A weekend dedicated to enjoying sight-reading which\, for the busy or practice-challenged pianist\, requires no preparation at all! \nWhy do we always talk about aural tests and sight-reading tests? Finchcocks musical director David Hall advocates a systematic approach to sight-reading that does not involve weekly high-pressure tests. He believes that sight-reading should feel more like curling up on the sofa with a good book that you’ve not read before! \nThis weekend is aimed at all pianists who want to improve – and enjoy – sight-reading at the piano. Taught by pianist and author of There’s more to playing the piano David Hall (LRSM\, FRCO)\, this course is led by one of the best sight-readers we’ve ever witnessed! \n \nEach day typically starts with a workshop in the Finchcocks recital room or around the Yamaha in our piano cellar. In the afternoons\, there is time for private practice on one of our beautiful acoustic grand pianos including our new Steinway and individual tuition from the tutor. \nMorning workshops for this course will include: \n\n\nA ten-week plan to develop your skills\n\n\nSpotting patterns\n\n\nIn the afternoon we’ll convene for a performance workshop\, which will provide practical application the morning’s learning. There is no pressure to play if you don’t feel ready\, but we aim to make the atmosphere as relaxed\, fun and encouraging as possible\, with David being known to ask a nervous player to just “play one note”! \nPerformance classes for this weekend will include: \n\nQuick study pieces – introduction\nQuick study pieces – performance\n\n \nAt 7pm on Saturday\, we have a pre-dinner talk or recital in the main hall of the family home. This is a chance for guests can sit back and relax with a glass of wine: After a full day’s concentration\, nothing beats hearing the course tutor inspiring guests with some current repertoire on the family Bosendorfer! \n \n“Extraordinary weekend piano course with the excellent David Hall. […] Very good tuition tailored to the individuals and plenty of time to focus on the piano.” ~ Shadow Tours (Google review)\n\nOn a typical weekend course\, Finchcocks guests will: \n\nHave the chance to play in and observe two performance masterclasses and two workshops.\nReceive one-to-one input from tutor David during circulation in the free practice sessions.\nEnjoy access to play on our 9 grand pianos anytime between 7am and 8pm. (There are enough pianos to go round that everyone can play a piano at any given time.)\nEnjoy a private recital for course guests on Saturday evening in the main hall of Finchcocks.\nJoin and socialise with a group 8 fellow piano enthusiasts during lunch and dinner.\nDine in style with lunches and three course dinners prepared by our fabulous chef.\nExperience the Finchcocks bubble\, hailed as a “paradise for pianists” by BBC Music Magazine and stay in a grade 1 listed country manor.\n\nPlus 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. \n\n\nFor booking enquiries\, please fill in the form below. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n	Weekend courses\n\n	from £675 (inclusive of accommodation\, food\, wine and tuition)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  \n\n\n\n Your Name (required)\n \n \n Your Email (required)\n \n \n Which course date(s) are you interested in?\n \n \n Playing level / experience (required)\n \n \n Room price band:\nPlease selectClassic (standard)Considerable (large)Old Dairy (with own piano)\n\n \n Other room preferences: (please select most important one and we'll try to our best to accommodate)\nPlease selectEnsuiteWalk-in showerBath2nd floor3rd floorI'm easy!\n\n \n Please tell us anything else that you think would be helpful:\n \n \n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n...
URL:https://www.finchcocks.com/availability/enjoying-sight-reading-with-david-hall/
LOCATION:Kent
CATEGORIES:Advanced,Upper intermediate,Upper intermediate weekend
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.finchcocks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/IMG_20220715_140605_Bokeh-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250516T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250518T153000
DTSTAMP:20260509T032234
CREATED:20240920T070001Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250515T110817Z
UID:28619-1747422000-1747582200@www.finchcocks.com
SUMMARY:Creating Confidence weekend with Dr Maria Razumovskaya - Advanced - WAITING LIST
DESCRIPTION:This thought-provoking course focuses on the strategies that root your musical performances in more confident foundations. We explore and apply a diverse range of psychology-related ideas including ’the flow’; and concepts of body-mechanics from piano\, theatre and dance to discuss and experiment with strategies that promote a more natural awareness of how our mind\, body\, imagination and performance creativity are all inextricably linked. We look at how a deeper understanding of that dynamic interplay between these elements can channel you to prepare\, practice and perform with more confidence and fluidity\, whilst releasing tension and anxiety.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWe are very excited to welcome international concert pianist\, Steinway artist\, Professor of Academic Studies at Guildhall of Music and Drama and lecturer at the City Literary Institute Dr Maria Razumovskaya to lead this course. \n\nHer exquisite touch… authoritative grandeur\, a kaleidoscope of ever changing emotions… intense power [is] set against a sublime poetic vision ~ The Classical Reviewer \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBoth Satuday and Sunday begin with an interactive workshop\, led by Maria. This course will include:\n\n\n\nConfidence in the Space: Defining my Space and Yours\nConfidence in the Moment: Things that Need to be Left Behind\n\n\n\nAfternoons are spent exploring and enjoying each other’s repertoire\, applying new gained knowledge\, and confidence\, in performance classes – as well as some private practice! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIn between the workshop and performance class sessions\, there will be time for private practice on one of our beautiful grand pianos. During these sessions\, Maria will give one-to-one lessons on our new Steinway to provide individual pointers and tips. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGuests will also: \n\nHave the chance to play in and observe two performance masterclasses.\nWill receive a one-to-one lesson with Maria.\nEnjoy access to play on our 9 grand pianos anytime between 7am and 8pm. (There are enough pianos to go round that everyone can play a piano at any given time.)\nExperience a private accompanied talk for course participants in the main hall of the family home\, performed by Maria.\nJoin and socialise with a group 8 fellow piano enthusiasts during lunch and dinner.\nDine in style with lunches and three course dinners prepared by our fabulous chef.\nExperience the Finchcocks bubble\, hailed as a “paradise for pianists” by BBC Music Magazine and stay in a grade 1 listed country manor.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nStaggeringly passionate playing. ~ Gramophone \n\n\n\nMaria Razumovskaya has been described as a ‘virtuoso story-teller of the piano’ (Le Courrier). She performs at many major international festivals and venues including the Cheltenham Festival\, Wigmore Hall\, St John’s Smith Square\, Cadogan Hall\, Holywell Room\, SJE Arts Piano International Series\, Lavaux Classique\, Zurich Stadt Kultur\, Piano City Milan\, Paris Musée d’Orsay\, Yogyakarta Philharmonia\, the Saint Petersburg Philharmonia\, and the Rachmaninov Hall and Skryabin Museum in Moscow. \nRazumovskaya’s live performances have been recorded and broadcast on BBC Radio 3 and featured as highlights in their ‘Performing Miracles’ series\, RTS\, Espace 2\, Radio Orfeo\, and ABC Radio. \nRazumovskaya’s  debut-disc recorded by Tony Faulkner on the Malachite label was shortlisted for the Liszt Disque Grand Prix\, and subsequent recordings for the label have been singled out by international publications such as Pizzicato magazine\, and critically praised for the performance’s ‘extraordinary mastery’ [American Record Guide] and ‘staggering passion and lyricism’ [Gramophone]. Further recordings including the works of Busoni\, Liszt\, CPE Bach and Rachmaninov; Tchaikovsky and Mussorgsky. \nChamber music partners include Faina Lushtak\, Ilan Schneider\, Wolfram Christ\, the Alban Berg Quartet\, principals of the Berlin Philharmonic\, Lucerne Festival Orchestra\, Luxembourg Philharmonia\, Basel Philharmonic\, National Opera Orchestra of Paris\, and soloists of the Mariinsky Opera\, Bolshoi Opera\, and Metropolitan Opera. As a faculty and guest artist at international summer schools she has played recitals alongside artists including Nikolai Lugansky\, Marc Andre Hamelin\, and Piotr Andrezewski; and premiered works by composers including Philippe Hersant.​ \n​Passionate about encouraging audiences to share in her curiosity for the stories behind the music and its makers\, Razumovskaya’s writings include a monograph on the legendary pianist and pedagogue Heinrich Neuhaus (Boydell & Brewer). This was awarded CHOICE Outstanding Title\, and ranked ‘world leading in originality\, significance and rigour’ by REF. She has also written book chapters (Indiana University Press\, Palgrave Macmillan)\, articles for academic journal\, and the wider press including BBC Music\, International Piano\, Pianist and several other publications. \nMaria Razumovskaya received her pianistic training in the class of Rustem Hayroudinoff at the Royal Academy of Music in London\, graduating with Distinction and several prizes. She furthered her studies with Professor Dmitri Alexeev as an Arts and Humanities Research Council doctoral scholar at the Royal College of Music.   \nShe is a professor at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama\, Director of Performance at the Music Faculty of Oxford University\, a lecturer at the City Literary Institute\, guest faculty at several international music academies and festivals\, and an external examiner for several institutions. \nMaria Razumovskaya is a Steinway Artist. \n\nHer playing is marked by a beguiling warmth of sound\, and when called for can draw upon intense drama and exciting pianistic strength\, but the absorbing feature of her interpretations is that they always search for the expression of substance beneath the surface.~ Artistic Director\, Mr de Vries \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFor booking enquiries\, please fill in the form below. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  \n\n\n\n Your Name (required)\n \n \n Your Email (required)\n \n \n Which course date(s) are you interested in?\n \n \n Playing level / experience (required)\n \n \n Room price band:\nPlease selectClassic (standard)Considerable (large)Old Dairy (with own piano)\n\n \n Other room preferences: (please select most important one and we'll try to our best to accommodate)\nPlease selectEnsuiteWalk-in showerBath2nd floor3rd floorI'm easy!\n\n \n Please tell us anything else that you think would be helpful:\n \n \n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n	Weekend courses\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n	from £675 (inclusive of accommodation\, food\, wine and tuition)
URL:https://www.finchcocks.com/availability/creating-confidence-with-dr-maria-razumovskaya/
LOCATION:Kent
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.finchcocks.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Maria-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250425T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250427T153000
DTSTAMP:20260509T032234
CREATED:20240920T070031Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240916T092232Z
UID:28607-1745607600-1745767800@www.finchcocks.com
SUMMARY:The music of Mozart
DESCRIPTION:The keyboard music of Mozart is seen as a model of perfection; the sleek lines of the melodies and exquisite harmonies ideally suited to the modern grand piano.  However\, Mozart’s own instruments and those around him offer a dramatically different sound world and thanks to researches in performance styles\, our understanding of how Mozart’s music may have sounded has deepened enormously. \nThis course aims to delve deep into the Classical piano music world in order to enhance our performances of Mozart\, Haydn\, Clementi\, early Beethoven and others when we perform on the modern piano: an instrument that could have astonished them! \nWe are delighted to be offering this long-awaited course with brilliantly talented keyboard player and Early Keyboard Consultant to the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire and Royal Welsh Colleges\, Steven Devine. \nThe course is suitable for pianists playing at an upper intermediate to advanced level. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAs well as a one-to-one lesson with Steven\, weekend tuition will include two workshops and the chance to play in and observe two performance masterclasses also. Themes to be explored are: \n\n\n“Why bother with the early piano?” \n\n\n“Did Mozart live in a vacuum – did his idea come from thin air?” \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n“He’s building a reputation as an outstanding recitalist; this completion of his ‘48’ is a highly satisfying account.” BBC Music Magzine November 2020 \n\nOn Saturday evening\, guests can sit back and relax in the main hall of the family home and enjoy a performance by Steven himself. This is an opportunity to hear an artist regularly featured on BBC Radio 3 perform an exclusive private concert in a relaxed setting. An inspirational treat not to be missed! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDuring their stay\, guests will also: \n\nEnjoy access to play on our 9 grand pianos anytime between 7am and 8pm. (There are enough pianos to go round that everyone can play a piano at any given time.)\nJoin and socialise with a group 8 fellow piano enthusiasts during lunch and dinner.\nDine in style with lunches and three course dinners prepared by our fabulous chef.\nExperience the Finchcocks bubble\, hailed as a “paradise for pianists” by BBC Music Magazine and stay in a grade 1 listed country manor.\n\nPlus 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. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSteven Devine enjoys a busy career as a music director and keyboard player working with some of the finest musicians. \nHe is the Principal Keyboard Player with the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment and also the principal keyboard player for The Gonzaga Band\, The Mozartists and performs regularly with many other groups around Europe. He has recorded over thirty discs with other artists and ensembles and made six solo recordings. His recording of Bach’s Goldberg Variations (Chandos Records) has received critical acclaim – including Gramophone magazine describing it as “among the best”. The complete harpsichord works of Rameau (Resonus) has received five-star reviews from BBC Music Magazine. Steven has recently released  Bach’s Well-Tempered Clavier (“it’s the one of all I’ve heard in the past ten years that I am happiest to live with.” Early Music Review)  – available on this site. \nHe made his London conducting debut in 2002 at the Royal Albert Hall and is now a regular performer there – including making his Proms directing debut in August 2007 with the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment. He has conducted the Mozart Festival Orchestra in every major concert hall in the UK and also across Switzerland. Steven is Music Director for New Chamber Opera in Oxford and with them has performed repertoire from Cavalli to Rossini. For the Dartington Festival Opera he has conducted Handel’s Orlando and Purcell’s Dido and Aeneas. He is currently conductor and Artistic Advisor for the English Haydn Festival in Bridgnorth. \nSteven works regularly with the Norwegian Wind Ensemble\, Trondheim Barokk\, the Victoria Baroque Players (BC\, Canada) and Arion Baroque Ensemble (Montreal). \nHe is Early Keyboard Consultant to the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire and Royal Welsh Colleges\, and teaches fortepiano at the Royal Academy of Music. \nFinally\, Steven is thrilled to be a member of the ground-breaking Art of Moog: an electronic music group specialising in the performance of Bach. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFor booking enquiries\, please contact Jenny by filling in the form below. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n	Weekend courses\n\n	from £675 (inclusive of accommodation\, tuition and all food and wine)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  \n\n\n\n Your Name (required)\n \n \n Your Email (required)\n \n \n Which course date(s) are you interested in?\n \n \n Playing level / experience (required)\n \n \n Room price band:\nPlease selectClassic (standard)Considerable (large)Old Dairy (with own piano)\n\n \n Other room preferences: (please select most important one and we'll try to our best to accommodate)\nPlease selectEnsuiteWalk-in showerBath2nd floor3rd floorI'm easy!\n\n \n Please tell us anything else that you think would be helpful:
URL:https://www.finchcocks.com/availability/the-music-of-mozart/
LOCATION:Kent
CATEGORIES:Advanced,Upper intermediate
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.finchcocks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Steven-Devine-by-Foxbrush-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250411T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250413T153000
DTSTAMP:20260509T032234
CREATED:20240429T070039Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240919T091342Z
UID:28140-1744398000-1744558200@www.finchcocks.com
SUMMARY:Interpretation and improvisation: Making advanced theory fun with David Hall - upper intermediate - diploma
DESCRIPTION:This course\, run by Finchcocks Musical Director David Hall\, is ideal for anybody who wants to go beyond grade 5 theory to further develop their keyboard skills of interpretation\, improvisation\, harmonisation and transposition. It would best suit the Upper Intermediate pianist who has good understanding of grade 5 music theory upto Advanced players. David will also cover any specifics for those considering or preparing for grade 8 theory exam (or equivalent) should they wish. \nWhy study music theory and harmony? \nYou can understand repertoire more fully.  \nIf you can identify chords and cadences – if you can pick out passages of intervallic counterpoint – if you can condense a whole passage of music into one concept – then you can learn repertoire more quickly and you can memorise it more quickly. Instead of saying “this is line 1” and “this is line 2”\, start saying “this is the F major phrase” and “this is the D minor phrase”. You’ll soon find that the notes sink in a little more quickly.   \nYou can interpret music better and more authentically.  \nIf you understand the pushes and pulls of harmony\, you can judge your rubato and your dynamics to convey the harmonic tension to the listener. If you understand which chords are prosaic and which are exciting or particularly calming\, then you can pace your performance accordingly.   \nYou can understand composers’ thought processes.  \nKnowledge of music theory helps you to understand music in the same way that composers understand music.  \n You can learn to improvise and compose your own music.  \nAll the great composers of the Baroque and Classical era were taught harmony\, counterpoint\, style and structure from an early age so that they could perform at the keyboard with or without a printed score.  \nDavid Hall\, author of There’s more to playing the piano… (now stocked by Waterstones) was recently described by the Sunday Times when they joined us on a Finchcocks piano course\, as a “musical powerhouse”. You might have seen some of the videos he created for Finchcocks to help pianists during the UK’s first lockdown. His teaching style is packed full of creative ideas and encouraging – with a gentle with a twist of humour! \n \nThis is him in action at one of our Saturday evening recitals\, put on for course guests in the main hall of Finchcocks. On this course\, David will perform two of three some of the very most famous pieces in the piano repertoire with detailed theory analysis beforehand! \n \nAlthough the focus of the weekend will be different to the usual performance-based courses we offer\, David will keep workshops practical\, engaging and interactive\, bringing to life – and making accessible – subjects vital to improving musicality. Workshops will include: \nWorkshop 1 – Nuts and Bolts\nRevision of basic harmony. Which scales fit with which chords. Introduction to counterpoint\nWorkshop 2 – Colourful chords\nExpanding chord knowledge to include secondary dominants\, diminished chords\, sixths\, sevenths and ninths.\nWorkshop 3 – Repertoire Analysis\nAnalysing repertoire helps us to understand the form and structure of the composition and the composer’s intentions. It helps us to perform the music better and helps us to memorise the music more quickly.\nWorkshop 4 – The Cycle of Fifths\nUsing the Cycle of Fifths to understand repertoire and to demystify improvisation.\nDuring the course\, guests are welcome to try out each of our nine grand pianos in the vaulted cellars – to help put into practice what has been discussed in the group sessions. \n \nGuests will also: \n\nHave the chance to take part in and observe four group harmony sessions.\nReceive one-to-one input from tutor David during circulation in the free practice sessions.\nEnjoy access to play on our 9 grand pianos anytime between 7am and 8pm. (There are enough pianos to go round that everyone can play a piano at any given time.)\nEnjoy a private recital for course guests on Saturday evening in the main hall of Finchcocks.\nJoin and socialise with a group 8 fellow piano enthusiasts during lunch and dinner.\nDine in style with lunches and three course dinners prepared by our fabulous chef.\nExperience the Finchcocks bubble\, hailed as a “paradise for pianists” by BBC Music Magazine and stay in a grade 1 listed country manor.\n\nPlus 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. \n \n \nFor booking enquiries or to see if this course is suitable for you\, please contact Jenny by filling in the form below or on 01580 428080. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n	Weekend courses\n\n	from £675 (inclusive of accommodation\, food\, wine and tuition)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  \n\n\n\n Your Name (required)\n \n \n Your Email (required)\n \n \n Which course date(s) are you interested in?\n \n \n Playing level / experience (required)\n \n \n Room price band:\nPlease selectClassic (standard)Considerable (large)Old Dairy (with own piano)\n\n \n Other room preferences: (please select most important one and we'll try to our best to accommodate)\nPlease selectEnsuiteWalk-in showerBath2nd floor3rd floorI'm easy!\n\n \n Please tell us anything else that you think would be helpful:\n \n \n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n...
URL:https://www.finchcocks.com/availability/interpretation-and-improvisation-making-advanced-theory-fun/
LOCATION:Finchcocks\, Finchcocks\, Goudhurst\, Kent\, TN17 1HH\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Advanced,Upper intermediate,Upper intermediate weekend
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.finchcocks.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/2019-04-07-Finchcocks-Piano-schoolEd-Ovenden-110-Copy.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250328T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250330T153000
DTSTAMP:20260509T032234
CREATED:20240429T070036Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241111T150729Z
UID:28131-1743188400-1743348600@www.finchcocks.com
SUMMARY:Jazz weekend with Nikki Iles - upper intermediate - diploma - WAITING LIST
DESCRIPTION:We are thrilled to welcome multi-award winning jazz pianist Nikki Iles to Finchcocks for a weekend devoted to jazz piano. \n\n“A formidable UK jazz presence …” “Iles is one of the\nmost refreshing figures to have emerged in the UK scene in recent times” The Guardian (John Fordham) \n“Formidably creative…. \n“The Heroine of British Jazz …” \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis mixed ability weekend course for upper intermediate pianists upwards will treat pianists to the key elements of jazz either through exploration of Nikki’s own compositions (many of which can be found on the ABRSM piano syllabus) or interactive workshops. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThere will also be time to implement what they learned on one of our beautiful grand pianos. During these practice sessions\, guests will also be scheduled a one-to-one lesson on our new Steinway with Nikki. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNikki will give a performance of some of her latest repertoire on Saturday evening in the main hall of the family home. She’ll joined by equally talented composer\, pianist\, singer and teacher Pete Churchill to give guests the experience of witnessing some jazz collaboration. After a full day’s concentration\, nothing beats hearing the course tutor inspiring guests with some current repertoire on the family Bosendorfer! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGuests will also: \n\nHave the chance to play in and observe two performance masterclasses.\nWill receive a one-to-one lesson with Nikki.\nEnjoy access to play on our 9 grand pianos anytime between 7am and 8pm. (There are enough pianos to go round that everyone can play a piano at any given time.)\nExperience a private accompanied talk for course participants in the main hall of the family home\, performed by Nikki and Pete Churchill.\nJoin and socialise with a group 8 fellow piano enthusiasts during lunch and dinner.\nDine in style with lunches and three course dinners prepared by our fabulous chef.\nExperience the Finchcocks bubble\, hailed as a “paradise for pianists” by BBC Music Magazine and stay in a grade 1 listed country manor.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nNikki Iles \nAs a founder member of the hugely innovative Creative Jazz Orchestra in the early 90s\,\nNikki Iles came to prominence working with musicians such as Anthony Braxton\, Vince\nMendoza\, Mark Anthony Turnage and Mike Gibbs. For many years\, Nikki served a lengthy\napprenticeship in the North of England playing with the cream of British and American jazz\nsuch as Peter King\, Iain Ballamy\, Art Farmer\, Peter King \,Tina May and Jim Mullen. Many of\nthese relationships were re- kindled later \,when after a car accident\, Nikki finally decided to\nmake the move to London in 1998. Here she joined the groups and toured and recorded with\nmusicians such as Steve Arguelles\, Stan Sulzmann and Julian Arguelles and Norma\nWinstone .Although well known as a pianist\, composition still remains a major part of her\nmusical life. The breadth of Nikki’s artistic vision has led her to disregard the arbitrary\nboundaries of the jazz scene and most notably\, commissions have included a collaboration\nwith American dancer Mimi Cichanowicz \, the UMO Jazz Orchestra in Finland\, the London\nSinfonietta \, The LPO’s Renga ensemble and this year “The Caged Bird” from the\nInternational Society of Jazz Arrangers and Composers. Nikki was honoured to have her\npiece HUSH commissioned by the National Youth Jazz Orchestra featured at the 2012\nProms ( BBC TV) and more recently write for the great American singer\, Kurt Elling and The\nScottish National Jazz Orchestra . \nRecently she has been particularly busy – she was awarded the prestigious Ivors Academy\nGold Badge and the Ivor Novello Award – winning the best large ensemble composition in\n2021. Thorough lockdown\, she won The Seattle jazz composition prize and was a recipient of\nboth The British Jazz and Parliamentary Jazz Awards and in the Queens New Years Honours\nlist 2022\, a British Empire Medal for services to music . An inspirational teacher\, she was\nalso awarded an Honorary RAM from The Royal Academy of Music and a Fellow of Birmingham\nConservatoire for outstanding contributions to the music. As a player she remains much in\ndemand with over 35 recordings to her name. Recent work has taken her across the world as\na member of the Julian Arguelles Octet\, The Kenny Wheeler Big Band\, Claire Martin and “The\nNorth “\, a Scandinavian/Anglo/Canadian collaboration .Her most recent recordings are –\n“Hush “ with Americans\, Rufus Reid and Jeff Williams. “Mirrors “ with Kenny Wheeler and\nNorma Winstone\, Lush Life with Stan Sulzmann and Dave Holland and with her own group\,\nThe Printmakers “Westerly”. The last few 3 years also marks a new chapter in her long and\ndistinguished career with writing for larger forces .This new music will be taking her across\nthe world directing bands in Hungary\, Germany \,Prague\, Ireland and Colorado\, which has\nculminated in a post as artist in residence with the great NDR radio big band in Hamburg for\n2023 and her debut CD with them (“Face to Face “ ). \nWith a parallel career as a widely respected teacher\, Nikki is a Professor at the Royal\nAcademy of Music. She also gives masterclasses around the world and has been a driving\nforce behind the innovative Jazz syllabus at the ABRSM and continues to publish extensively\nwith Oxford University Press and EVC Music. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPete Churchill \nPete Churchill has been working as a composer\, pianist\, singer and teacher for almost 30 years.\nAfter twenty years teaching at the Guildhall\, Pete is now Professor of Jazz Composition at the Royal\nAcademy of Music and Head of Jazz Voice at the Brussels Royal Conservatoire.\nWhilst teaching regularly in Europe\, Australia and the Far East (Hong Kong\, Malaysia and\nSingapore)\, Pete is recognised here as being at the forefront of Jazz education – receiving\nthe Parliamentary Award for Jazz Education in 2007 and nominated again in 2012 and 2017.\nBeing founder/director of ‘The London Vocal Project’ (LVP)\, led to work with Sir John\nDankworth & Dame Cleo Laine and Bobby McFerrin and more recently LVP recorded the\ncritically acclaimed CD ‘Mirrors’ with Ken Wheeler and Norma Winstone MBE. In 2017\, after a lengthy\ncollaboration with the Jazz singer/lyricist Jon Hendricks\, Pete and LVP travelled to New York to give the\nworld premiere of Jon Hendricks’ ‘Miles Ahead’. \nAs a pianist\, Pete spent 15 years as accompanist to the legendary Jazz singer Mark Murphy and\,\nmore recently worked with Sheila Jordan.He has been a member of both Kenny Wheeler’s and Abdullah\nIbrahim’s Vocal Projects and was privileged to be the conductor of the Kenny Wheeler Big Band\,\nculminating in the final album\, ‘The Long Waiting’. \n\n“(Royal Academy) students… have the good fortune to find themselves under the guidance of a unique force in British music…” London Jazz News \n\n\n\n\n  \n\n\n\n Your Name (required)\n \n \n Your Email (required)\n \n \n Which course date(s) are you interested in?\n \n \n Playing level / experience (required)\n \n \n Room price band:\nPlease selectClassic (standard)Considerable (large)Old Dairy (with own piano)\n\n \n Other room preferences: (please select most important one and we'll try to our best to accommodate)\nPlease selectEnsuiteWalk-in showerBath2nd floor3rd floorI'm easy!\n\n \n Please tell us anything else that you think would be helpful:\n \n \n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n	Weekend courses\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n	from £675 (inclusive of accommodation\, food\, wine and tuition)
URL:https://www.finchcocks.com/availability/jazz-weekend-with-nikki-iles-upper-intermediate-diploma/
LOCATION:Kent
CATEGORIES:Advanced,Upper intermediate,Upper intermediate weekend
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.finchcocks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Nikki-Iles.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250317T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250321T153000
DTSTAMP:20260509T032235
CREATED:20240429T070047Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240429T131130Z
UID:28111-1742207400-1742571000@www.finchcocks.com
SUMMARY:5-day Spring School for Advanced Pianists with Graham Fitch - WAITING LIST
DESCRIPTION:2025 offers Advanced pianists three very different 5-day courses to choose from. The first is dedicated to those preparing for a special performance\, providing a concentrated boost for those attending – to study\, practise\, polish and improve performance skills and experience. And at the helm leading the process is the hugely popular and inspiring Graham Fitch! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nPreparing for a diploma or special performance is an excellent way to provide focus and structure to your piano practice as you work towards a goal. This provides an ideal opportunity for continued professional or personal development. On this course you can receive tuition and coaching on your programme. There will also be opportunities to practise performing your programme (or selections from it) to others in a safe and supportive environment\, either in the class or more informally in a small group. In addition to masterclasses\, there are workshops on how to prepare for performance\, strategies to manages nerves\, as well as clinics where we aim to solve practice and technical issues. Whether you are just embarking on the path\, about to sit a diploma or simply preparing for a recital at advanced level\, this course is for you. \nOur 5-day courses are a well established highlight of the Finchcocks calendar. To ensure a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere\, places are open to those who have attended at least one weekend Finchcocks course previously. \nDedicated to those wanting to improve their performance\, Graham Fitch will lead guests through an intensive week providing a concentrated boost of study\, practice and experience in performance skills. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLike our weekend courses\, formal tuition takes place in workshops\, performance classes and one-to-one lessons. \nThis course’s focuses will be: \n\nPreparing for a Performance: Strategies for Structuring Your Practice\nPerformance Confidence\nClinic: Solving Technical and Musical Problems in Your Pieces\nMemorisation and Deep Learning Techniques\nPractising a Performance: Building Stamina and Resilience into your Programme.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAs usual\, everyone will have access to their own grand piano for the week including our new Steinway\, and have plenty of time to practise in our vaulted piano cellar. \nWe’ll also have a bit of fun! We’ll enjoy a recitial from either a visiting concert pianist\, Graham himself or your course host\, explore the private gardens at Finchcocks and be able to go for beautiful Kentish countryside walks to Scotney Castle\, weather permitting. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAnd of course\, it goes without saying that you can expect the usual! \nGuests will: \n\nHave the chance to play in and observe multiple performance masterclasses.\nWill receive one-to-one lessons with Graham.\nEnjoy access to play on our 9 grand pianos anytime between 7am and 8pm. (There are enough pianos to go round that everyone can play a piano at any given time.)\nHave the chance to take part in a recital on the Bosendorfer in the main hall of the family home.\nJoin and socialise with a group 8 fellow piano enthusiasts during lunch and dinner.\nDine in style with lunches and three course dinners prepared by our fabulous chef.\nExperience the Finchcocks bubble\, hailed as a “paradise for pianists” by BBC Music Magazine and stay in a grade 1 listed country manor.\n\nPlus-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. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis is a unique\, luxury UK-based piano gem and an experience that you won’t forget anytime soon. Many guests continue friendships made on these courses\, encouraging each other on in the piano playing on Whatsapp\, organising private piano meet ups further down the line… and bumping into each other again on future courses! \nFor booking enquiries\, please contact Jenny on 01580 428080 or fill in the form below. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n	from £1450 (inclusive of accommodation\, tuition and all food and wine)\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  \n\n\n\n Your Name (required)\n \n \n Your Email (required)\n \n \n Which course date(s) are you interested in?\n \n \n Playing level / experience (required)\n \n \n Room price band:\nPlease selectClassic (standard)Considerable (large)Old Dairy (with own piano)\n\n \n Other room preferences: (please select most important one and we'll try to our best to accommodate)\nPlease selectEnsuiteWalk-in showerBath2nd floor3rd floorI'm easy!\n\n \n Please tell us anything else that you think would be helpful:\n \n \n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n...
URL:https://www.finchcocks.com/availability/5-day-spring-school-for-advanced-pianists-with-graham-fitch-2/
LOCATION:Kent
CATEGORIES:Advanced
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.finchcocks.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Graham-Fitch.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250307T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250309T153000
DTSTAMP:20260509T032235
CREATED:20240429T070030Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240505T171530Z
UID:28109-1741374000-1741534200@www.finchcocks.com
SUMMARY:19th century piano technique & the romantics weekend with Daniel Grimwood - mixed ability - WAITING LIST
DESCRIPTION:Developed by the esteemed 19th century pianist Ignaz Moscheles and pedagogue François-Joseph Fétis\, Méthode des Méthodes is one of the most ambitious of the 19th century music methods. The Etudes\, by composers as famous as Chopin\, Mendelssohn and Liszt\, also include less familiar names such as Eduard Wolff\, Amadée Mereaux and Julius Benedict\, and provide a “who’s who” of mid century pianism. Study of this fascinating collection shines light on what pianists considered the most important aspects of keyboard virtuosity in a bygone age. \nConcert pianist and research associate of 19th century piano performance at the University of York\, Daniel Grimwood\, will offer insight into the method and its relevance to the modern performer playing romantic repertoire today. \nAs broad the repertoire\, so the ability required to play it! This course suits anyone from Upper Intermediate level through to Diploma+. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBoth Satuday and Sunday begin with an interactive workshop\, led by the tutor. This course will include:\n\nMéthode des Méthodes\nPianists of the Romantic Era\n\nAfternoons are spent exploring and enjoying each other’s repertoire\, applying new gained knowledge in performance classes – as well as some private practice! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIn between the workshop and performance class sessions\, there will be time for private practice on one of our beautiful grand pianos. During these sessions\, Daniel will give one-to-one lessons on our new Steinway to provide individual pointers and tips. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nGuests will also: \n\nHave the chance to play in and observe two performance masterclasses.\nWill receive a one-to-one lesson with Daniel.\nEnjoy access to play on our 9 grand pianos anytime between 7am and 8pm. (There are enough pianos to go round that everyone can play a piano at any given time.)\nExperience a private accompanied talk for course participants in the main hall of the family home\, performed by Daniel.\nJoin and socialise with a group 8 fellow piano enthusiasts during lunch and dinner.\nDine in style with lunches and three course dinners prepared by our fabulous chef.\nExperience the Finchcocks bubble\, hailed as a “paradise for pianists” by BBC Music Magazine and stay in a grade 1 listed country manor.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n“He has all the virtuoso velocity and firepower\, and then some” – BBC Music Magazine \n“Daniel Grimwood\, fast making a name for himself as an original and discriminating musician” – Gramophone \n“Probably the finest all‐round musician I have ever known” – Felix Aprahamian \nWith a repertoire ranging from Elizabethan Virginal music to the works of living composers\, Daniel enjoys a solo and chamber career which has taken him around the globe\, performing in many of the most prestigious concert platforms\, including the Wigmore Hall\, Queen Elizabeth Hall and the Purcell Room in London\, Saffron Hall\, Bridgewater Hall in Manchester\, Symphony Hall Birmingham\, the Sage Gateshead\, the Three Choirs Festival\, the Rachmaninoff and Gnessin Halls in Moscow\, the Carnegie Hall in New York\, as well as venues in Germany\, Austria\, Italy\, The Netherlands\, Slovenia\, Estonia\, Taiwan\, Azerbaijan\, Egypt\, Lebanon and Oman. \nHis musical interest started as a 3-year-old playing next door’s piano in Kent\, and by the age of 7 he was performing in front of audiences. His training continued with Graham Fitch at the Purcell School\, where he also studied violin\, viola and composition\, giving him a broad appreciation of classical music\, and later with Vladimir Ovchinnikov and Peter Feuchtwanger. \nDaniel is a passionate about all keyboard instruments old and new\, and has given a recital of Chopin’s Etudes on the composer’s own Pleyel piano. \nHis discs of Liszt and Chopin\, performed on an 1851 Erard piano\, received a unanimous chorus of praise from the press; the Liszt album was Daily Telegraph CD of the week and Editor’s Choice in Gramophone Magazine. He was the first artist to record on the Edition Peters Sounds label\, the complete Fauré Nocturnes album was released to excellent reception in The Sunday Times\, which was followed by a disc of solo piano works by Adolph von Henselt\, described as “a blizzard of dazzling pianism” by the Observer. His most recent release is a disc of Doreen Carwithen and William Alwyn\, also on Edition Peters Sounds\, and his account of the complete Henselt Etudes will be released later this year. \nAs editor Daniel is currently preparing editions of John Field and Adolph von Henselt for Edition Peters. \nDaniel regularly performs on live broadcasts on BBC Radio 3\, and has been featured in BBC Four’s TV documentary series “Revolution and Romance”. \nAway from the piano\, Daniel is a keen runner\, member of Paddock Wood Athletic Club and guardian of Bartok the Hungarian Visla. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nFor booking enquiries\, please contact us on 01580 428080 or fill in the form below. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  \n\n\n\n Your Name (required)\n \n \n Your Email (required)\n \n \n Which course date(s) are you interested in?\n \n \n Playing level / experience (required)\n \n \n Room price band:\nPlease selectClassic (standard)Considerable (large)Old Dairy (with own piano)\n\n \n Other room preferences: (please select most important one and we'll try to our best to accommodate)\nPlease selectEnsuiteWalk-in showerBath2nd floor3rd floorI'm easy!\n\n \n Please tell us anything else that you think would be helpful:\n \n \n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n	Weekend courses\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n	from £675 (inclusive of accommodation\, food\, wine and tuition)
URL:https://www.finchcocks.com/availability/19th-century-piano-technique-the-romantics-weekend-with-daniel-grimwood-mixed-ability/
LOCATION:Kent
CATEGORIES:Advanced,Intermediate,Upper intermediate,Upper intermediate weekend
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DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250221T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250223T153000
DTSTAMP:20260509T032235
CREATED:20240429T070030Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250121T183107Z
UID:28105-1740132000-1740324600@www.finchcocks.com
SUMMARY:3-day Lower Intermediate course with David Hall
DESCRIPTION:Our 3-day course for Lower Intermediate pianists is designed to allow a bit more space to take things at slower pace and in more depth. Led by our Music Director and author of There’s more to playing piano David Hall\, guests can expect his signature inspiration alongside an encouraging and flexible teaching style. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDuring your stay\, David will cover the following topics in his interactive workshops: \n\n\nWorkshop 1 – Good practising can be efficient and enjoyable!\nPractice tips & how to make the most of the time at Finchcocks\n\n\nWorkshop 2 – Understanding repertoire\nTheory in practice\, the cycle of fifths and using your imagination\n\n\nWorkshop 3 – Sight-reading and aural are not just tests!\nSensible strategies to work on sight-reading and aural skills and why they go beyond exam tests.\n\n\nThere will also be time for private practice on one of our beautiful grand pianos. And for those who would like\, our tutor will give three one-to-one lessons on our new Steinway to provide individual pointers and tips. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nOn the Saturday night\, David will perform a private salon concert 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! \n\n\n\n\nWe 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! \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\nDuring the course of their stay guests will: \n\nEnjoy access to play on our 9 grand pianos anytime between 7am and 8pm. (There are enough pianos to go round that everyone can play a piano at any given time.)\nEnjoy a one-to-one lesson with our tutor.\nExperience a private recital for retreat guests in the main hall of the family home\, performed by our tutor.\nJoin and socialise with a group 8 fellow piano enthusiasts during lunch and dinner.\nDine in style with lunches and three course dinners prepared by our fabulous chef.\nExperience the Finchcocks bubble\, hailed as a “paradise for pianists” by BBC Music Magazine and stay in a grade 1 listed country manor.\nBe able to explore the Kentish countryside and local attractions should they wish a trip out.\n\nPlus 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. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nStarting at 10am on the Friday\, this extended stay gives upper intermediate pianists chance to really absorb and embed new tips and strategies into their playing. If it sounds of interest\, please drop Jenny a line using the form below\, or give her a ring on 01580 428080. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  \n\n\n\n Your Name (required)\n \n \n Your Email (required)\n \n \n Which course date(s) are you interested in?\n \n \n Playing level / experience (required)\n \n \n Room price band:\nPlease selectClassic (standard)Considerable (large)Old Dairy (with own piano)\n\n \n Other room preferences: (please select most important one and we'll try to our best to accommodate)\nPlease selectEnsuiteWalk-in showerBath2nd floor3rd floorI'm easy!\n\n \n Please tell us anything else that you think would be helpful:\n \n \n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n	3-day courses\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n	from £825 (inclusive of accommodation\, food\, wine and tuition)
URL:https://www.finchcocks.com/availability/3-day-lower-intermediate-course-with-david-hall/
LOCATION:Kent
CATEGORIES:Lower intermediate,Lower Intermediate Weekend
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