Folkworks Summer Sessions FAQs
Wondering what to expect at Folkworks Summer Sessions? We asked Musical Director Dave Gray to give us his take on everything from workshop details to evening activities.
What will we be doing?
Big Tune & Big Song (whole group).
At the start of the day, we all learn a simple tune together, also a song (Big tune/Big song). This has been taken from Folkworks of old. This will happen after a morning warm-up and we meet the Big tune/Song again, all together at the end of the day.
You will find out what the Big Tune and Big Song are on your first day at Summer Sessions.
Main Instrument Sessions
Your main instrument may cover such things as instrumental techniques, new approaches or new tunes.
Reflection Solo Practice
This is a period where you can find a space and play through what you have just worked on at your own pace. We encourage the use of recordings taken by you and sheet music provided by the tutors if necessary.
Ensembles
For me, this is the most important part of the Summer Sessions. Being able to play music with other people is magic and a skill! In this period, you will learn tips and tricks from two tutors and create an awesome band!
– Tune Band
– Band with Song
– Playing for Dancing
– Beginners Ensemble
A Snapshot of a Day:
9.30am – 9.45am: Register and Tea & Coffee
9.45am – 10.25am: Warm Up: Big Tune Big Song
10.30am – 11.30am: Main Instrument Session
11.30am – 12noon: Reflection Solo Practice
12noon – 12.15pm: Break
12.15pm – 1.30pm: Ensemble
1.30pm – 2.30pm: Lunch
2.30pm – 3.45pm: Ensemble
3.45pm – 4pm: Break
4pm – 5pm: Main Instrument Session
5pm – 5.30pm: Reflection Solo Practice
5.30pm – 6pm: Cool Down: Big Tune Big Song
Which group will I be in for my main session?*
Findlay Napier – Strummers & Fretted
Laura J Wilkie – Stringed instruments
Sarah Hayes – Vocals
Sam Partridge – Winds
*please note we are lucky enough to have a really multi-talented tutor team on Folkworks Summer Sessions and therefore we might sometimes swap tutors around in the Main Instrument Groups to ensure you all experience different styles of teaching.
Can you tell us more about Saltburn Folk Festival?
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As part of this partnership, Folkworks Summer Sessions participants can also enjoy a 10% discount on Saltburn Folk Festival weekend tickets plus free tent camping or £10 ‘camping on wheels’.
If you are only attending Saltburn Folk Festival to take part in the Summer Sessions performance, there is no need to purchase a festival ticket. This performance is completely optional and sits alongside the Folkworks Summer Sessions programme.
How would I get to Saltburn if I wanted to do the extra performance?
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Trains run from Newcastle Central Station to Saltburn with 1 change. The cost for these is around £10 and the journey takes around 90minutes including the change.
If you fancy going but you’re still unsure about the logistics, please let us know any concerns or questions you may have.
Will you be sending out music/tune titles before the event?
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Tune titles and music will not be sent out before the event. However, sheet music will be available at the tutor’s discretion, normally given to you after the session.
Will we be learning by ear?
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Yes, I want to push everyone be out of their comfort zone – but in a very supportive setting. I understand that this is a process which takes time – you will have ‘Self reflection/Solo Practice time’ within the day so you can take and study/play the dots if needs be.
What are the evening activities?
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Q&A session with tutors with MC Dave Gray as host; some informal tutor performances as part of this. You’ll get a chance to put your questions forward for tutors to answer; followed by Session / Social time.
Thursday
Dance Evening, including French Bal and Ceilidh, followed by Session / Social time.
The only mistake you can make is not having a go! Don’t worry if you’ve never danced before – you will be guided through simple French dances. And of course you can just come and listen to the awesome house band which will include some familiar faces!
Both of these events will be held at St. Mary’s Heritage Centre opposite The Glasshouse. Activities will start at 8pm with doors at 7.30pm and run until close at 11pm. These are included in the ticket price. If you have friends or family who would like to join you for the evening activities who do not have tickets to Folkworks Summer Sessions, we will have a ‘pay as you feel’ option where capacity allows. Places will be limited, so reserve by emailing fwss@theglasshouseicm.org.
Will there be a performance I can invite my family to?
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There will be sharing performance on Friday afternoon from 2-3pm at The Glasshouse. Friends and family will be able to book a free ticket for this performance, further details tbc.
There will then be the optional performance at Saltburn Folk Festival on Saturday 8 August.
What are the hotel offers?
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You can find full details of exclusive discounts from partner hotels here: Folkworks Summer Sessions Hotels | The Glasshouse
Are the venues accessible?
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Yes, both venues are accessible. Please contact us to discuss any specific access requirements further – fwss@theglasshouseicm.org
What meals are included in the ticket price? Show More
Example menus:
Veggie Platter: Roasted red and yellow peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and beetroot falafel
House salad: mixed leaf, tomato, cucumber, French dressing
Hummus: Garlic and lemon hummus, Pitta breads
Potato: Rosemary and olive oil baby potatoes
Cake: Mini assorted cakes
Please note the menus may change.
Will I be able to buy food / drinks at The Glasshouse during Folkworks Summer Sessions?
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The Glasshouse café will be open from 9.30am until late each day of Summer Sessions
Is there car parking at the venues?
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Yes, you can find out more about parking at The Glasshouse here: Parking at The Glasshouse | The Glasshouse