Finchcocks launches gift vouchers! Since we launched a few years ago, we’ve had lots of people enquire about booking courses for their nearest and dearest. With Christmas approaching, and some particularly lovely piano courses arranged for next year, we have created a set of gift vouchers available in multiples of £100 that can be used...
Category: Finchcocks
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Activities for non-playing guests
Some of our guests ask if they can bring along a partner or non-playing guest. Plus-ones are very welcome! It’s very easy to while away a couple of days enjoying the luxury of our grade I listed stately manor, the grand pianos, grounds, food and wine. However, non-playing guests and partners might like a few...
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Spotlight on … Rachmaninoff Our Q&A with Warren Mailley-Smith
Ahead of our Rachmaninoff course next month, we chat to Warren Mailley-Smith about why the music of Rachmaninoff still fascinates him Lets start with the basics, what characterises Rachmaninoff’s music? For me its his long melodic lines, his wide and extensive use of the keyboard, the unique physical challenges of playing it, and the intensity...
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Winter wonderland piano retreat: our most accessible course ever!
This coming January, Finchcocks is offering a very special piano retreat for those who want to get away from it all and re-focus on their playing. It is also ideal if you have been considering a course with us but are a bit scared of the idea of playing in front of others! This weekend...
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MEET OUR STAFF: Assistant Course Director Jenny Maslin
Tell us a little about your role at Finchcocks… I have been working part time at Finchcocks for about 9 months now and absolutely love it. I have two main responsibilities, one of which is administrative, and the other is my shared role with Helen hosting and facilitating our piano courses. I really enjoy marrying...
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Participant Diary: Anna Braddick
Spotlight on … 18 year old student and pianist, Anna Braddick Explore her experience Upon arrival on a sunny Friday afternoon, the stunning views of the Finchcocks estate and Georgian manor house greeted us. Who knew the most extraordinary sight was yet to come – downstairs in the cellar, where the jaw-dropping (!) range...
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MEET OUR STAFF: Course Director Andrew Dunlop
What age were you when you decided you wanted to be a pianist? I began lessons after my primary teacher heard me play ‘The Bear Jumped Over the Mountain’ from my reading book, aged 8, on a tiny Casio Keyboard. Formal lessons quickly ensued with music soon encompassing all aspects of daily life. Growing up...
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MEET OUR STAFF: Musical Director David Hall…
How did you first discover the piano? I grew up in a vicarage with an upright piano in the front room and a church organ just next door. I heard lots of music growing up though my parents don’t really play. When I was four, I started having ten-minute piano lessons with Mrs Cole –...