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Introduction to Annabel and developing a pre-formed chamber group

In these second set of lessons, Annabel Thwaite explores how teachers can build upon the first lesson with their small ensemble, now working with the music in front of the students. She will explain some techniques, tips and games to add some fizz and fun, and create more spontaneity within the group.

Part of the courseGrowing Chamber Groups and Small Ensembles8 lessons (0h 26m)

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Annabel ThwaiteYour guruAnnabel Thwaite

What's in the course

8 lessons (0h 26m) · 1 free
    • 01. Introduction to Annabel and developing a pre-formed chamber group

      You are here

      1:52

    • 02. The complete sound (the invisible group member)

      3:34

    • 03. Body language

      3:50

    • 04. The importance of breath

      3:34

    • 05. Follow my leader! A fun game

      4:12

    • 06. Studying the score

      4:11

    • 07. A Musical Conversation and Pareto's Law

      2:51

    • 08. Beyond the rehearsal room

      2:21

Lesson transcript

Welcome to the Junior Course

Instructor: Annabelle Thwaite
Director of the Junior Course at Procorda


About the Junior Course

The junior course is designed for students between the ages of 12 and 14. However, I also oversee all courses that cater to:

  • Students as young as six
  • Conservatoire level musicians
  • Adult learners

As a pianist, I am fortunate to collaborate with a variety of musicians, including:

  • Various instruments
  • Singers

Together, we explore a wide range of styles and repertoire.


Building on Creative Ensemble Work

Today, we will build on the concepts already introduced through creative ensemble work. This approach is adaptable to any kind of instrumentation; for instance, we could have:

  • Four saxophones
  • Double basses
  • Recorder ensembles

The possibilities are endless.

Lifting Music Off the Page

The objective is to bring the music to life. By this stage, I hope that students have learned their individual parts. Now, we will be working with the music right in front of us.

Adapting to Different Groups

This method can be tailored for:

  • Nervous, novice groups: Ideal for those who may feel shy or unsure.
  • Avidly practicing groups: Perfect for those who might have become a bit stale after practicing diligently all term.

Fun and Spontaneity

The main goal of the tips, techniques, and games I'll share today is to:

  • Infuse energy and excitement into our sessions
  • Spark spontaneity and creativity among the group

Let's have some fun and create magic together!

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Meet your guru

Annabel Thwaite

Annabel Thwaite

Recognised as one of Britain's most versatile and charismatic pianists, Annabel Thwaite enjoys a diverse career as a soloist, chamber musician, recording artist, educator and examiner, and has won all the major accompanying prizes, including the prestigious Kathleen Ferrier, Gold Medal, and Richard Tauber Piano Prizes. She has collaborated with renowned artists such as Roberto Alagna, Bryn Terfel, David Kempster and "Only Men Aloud!"

Annabel has recorded for Universal records with the "Scottish Tenor", whose album was nominated for a Classical Brit Award and is regularly played on Classic FM. Twice the accompanist for the Festival of Welsh Male choirs, her performances at the Royal Albert Hall were recorded by Sain and have been aired on S4C. She is also a film session pianist, having recorded at Abbey Road the music for the film "Awake", the BBC Jane Austen series "Emma", "The Secret Diaries of Miss Anne Lister" and, most recently, she has appeared on both Blue Peter and "The Rob Brydon Show".

"...no doubt helped by the obviously brilliant piano accompaniments from Annabel Thwaite...highly enjoyable."

In her MusicGurus courses - Learn Christmas Classics on Piano, Learn Classical Favourites on Piano, and Growing Chamber Groups and Small Ensembles - Annabel shares the musicianship behind that versatile career. You will learn how to bring well-loved Christmas and classical pieces to life at the piano, develop your touch and phrasing, and, drawing on her award-winning experience as an accompanist, discover how to listen, lead and play together when making music with other musicians in chamber groups and small ensembles.

Annabel Thwaite
Pat Levett
Katie Melua
Ed O'Brien
Imogen Heap
Joe Glossop
Frank Doll
Chet Atkins
Chris Haigh

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