Piccolo Toolkit with Stewart McIlwham
Piccolo Toolkit with Stewart McIlwham
Thursday, 31 October 2024, 18:00
We are so excited to present a Piccolo Survival Class with the wonderful Stewart McIlwham!
Stewart McIlwham is Principal Piccolo of the London Philharmonic Orchestra and Professor of Piccolo at the Royal College of Music.
Ready to tame the piccolo? Join our "Piccolo Survival" workshop and discover the truth behind one of the most misunderstood instruments in the orchestra!
Stewart will debunk common piccolo myths—Is it really just a "shrill flute"? Does it always have to be loud? You'll learn the secrets of controlling dynamics, tone, and intonation that make the piccolo a versatile and beautiful instrument. Through interactive exercises and guided practice, you'll build confidence in your playing and get answers to all your burning piccolo questions.
Topics that Stewart will cover:
- Yes, it’s a musical instrument….
- Vibrato, a piccolo players best friend……
- Some good warm up routine options…..
- Expand the dynamic range of your middle and low register…
- Top 10 Alternative/Fake fingerings…
- 5 fiendish excerpts not normally in the books…
- Second flute parts with a nasty surprise……
- Excess Water and how to avoid unnecessary embarrassment…
- Can you play quietly enough… especially in the top register…
- Flutter and Single tonguing….
- Unwanted whistle tones and how to get rid of them….
Whether you're new to the piccolo or looking to improve your existing skills, this workshop will equip you with practical tips and techniques to enhance your playing. Get ready to add the piccolo to your musical toolbox!
Duration: 2 hours
Bring Your Own: Piccolo (if you have one), a notebook & pen, Piccolo orchestral excerpt books (if you have them) and any questions you have about the instrument.
Come prepared to play, learn, and transform your piccolo experience from surviving to thriving!
Useful piccolo books you might like to bring: