Q. What’s the rehearsal atmosphere like?
A. We are very informal, I lead the group sometimes with conducting which helps keep us together or sometimes are join in a play a part beside someone to support their confidence or to bring out their part, by making it louder.
Q. Can I sit down?
A. Yes, we are a very mixed group and some prefer to sit and others have healthy conditions so need to sit. There are high bar stools and standard chairs, so take your pick (bring a cushion if you need padding).
Q. Can I bring a snack?
A. We are playing within a supermarket, so for security reasons you might want to avoid bringing anything that someone could perceive you had stolen. Of course if you wish to buy something on the way through, just keep your receipt with you. Tea, coffee, bottled water and often biscuits are provided free by Tescos for our break.
Q. Is there a loo?
A. There is an accessible toilet attached to our rehearsal room, but if this is out of order, their is the regular facilities at the front of the store.
Q. How about parking/ will I get a fine?
A. At the time of producing this we have a booking in process to follow at the helpdesk. Your car registration must be entered here if you are staying longer than 30 minutes after 9pm. Most of us log in here just in case we get distracted and shop a bit on the way out. We also have to sign in manually for security and fire reasons in a paper logbook.
Q. What if it’s too tricky?
A. Firstly, I am happy to e-mail over some of the music for you to try at home. Of course you are welcome to book in a lesson if you need support, but on the night the first hour is paced for the least experienced player of the group. It’s pretty collaborative and often we will share a stand one between two, so someone else can play your part with you to give you a boost. Some parts are easier than others and you’ll often find someone with the same challenges. Until you feel ready you can just listen, play the easy bits or play the first note in a bar - we are there to help you enjoy the bits you can play and you can always put the kettle on an listen for a bit, if you feel overwhelmed. At around 8pm we have a tea break and after a little chat those who have already found it challenging often go, or you are welcome to stay and listen to the second half (you might even have a go at conducting).
Q. How about children/ can they join?
A. The environment is not suitable for little children (with dangers such as the kettle), older children who are playing an instrument are welcome to join us as long as their adult remains present the whole time. Some parents join in too.
Q. Do I need my own instrument?
A. Yes you need your own instrument, a copy of the music and music stand (we can share during the first session).
Q. Is there a principal player or section leader?
A. That’s way too formal for us. Sometimes the more advanced players support the lower parts to bring out the rich tones, but often they take the highest parts as they know the notes. We usually have at least 2 parts for each tune, one often being the easier one, so you can pick and even change your mind mid tune if you need.
