Monthly Bulletin – June/July 2012Please read as this publication contains information that you will need to

refer to

ALL STAFF

STAFF TRAINING DAYS

FRIDAY 20 TH JULY 9.00 – 12.15

BEECHES MANAGEMENT CENTRE SELLY OAK ROAD

BOURNVILLE, B30 1LS

SCHEDULE

9.00 Arrival- tea/coffee

9.30 Department Meetings

10.30 Tea/coffee

11.00 Cross-departmental discussion: Reflections on professional development 2011-12

12.00 Announcements – John Clemson

12.15 Musical performance in the Lounge: Trio Rosbifs, wonderful gypsy jazz group featuring Music Service teachers, Cris Tolley and Mathias Svensson. Snacks will be available for purchase at the bar.

MONDAY 3 RD SEPTEMBER 9.00 – 3.00

Edgbaston StadiumCounty Ground

Edgbaston RoadEdgbaston

B5 7QU

SCHEDULE

9.00 Arrival – registration and refreshments

9.30 Introduction to the year - John Clemson

10.00 Area Ensembles – Video examples followed by discussion11.00 Refreshments 11.30 Departmental meetings12.30 Lunch

1.30 Departmental training2.30 Refreshments3.00 Departmental training4.00 Finish

All permanent staff who would normally work for the Music Service on these days are required to attend. All other staff are strongly urged to do so, if at all possible, since the future success of the Service depends on the quality of our work which, in turn, depends upon us all availing as fully as possible of training opportunities.

Please would sessional staff (and part-time permanent staff not contracted to work on these days) let the Office know which days they are attending by Friday 13th July. Please would you advise the office by the same date if you will require a specialised dietary meal on 3rd September.

Services for Education FRIDAY 7 TH SEPTEMBER 1.30 – 3.30

Edgbaston StadiumCounty Ground

Edgbaston RoadEdgbaston

B5 7QU

David Perkins will lead this meeting of staff from all three sections to launch Services for Education. All staff are urged to attend

STAFF MEETING – 31 ST MAY 2012

Below you will find the Staff Priorities for next year, which result from discussions at the Full Staff Meeting on 31st May.

STAFF PRIORITIES 2012-13 (Outcome of discussions at Staff Meeting – 31st May 2012)

WCIT

1. Single delivery WCIT: maintain quality of teaching2. Impact of WCIT expansion on orders for small group tuition. 3. Roll out WCIT assessment 4. More use of vocal teachers within wider opportunities paired teaching

Collaboration1. Smaller tables for staff discussion2. More collaboration between different instrumental departments within

schools, including performances 3. More collaboration between different schools, including performances.4. More team teaching. 5. Provide staff with lists of which Music Service staff work in their schools6. More repertoire sharing, including website materials, within and across

departments.

Professional Development1. Professional conversations – consider doing these at mid-point of year?2. More behaviour management sessions on training days.3. Staff do receive positive feedback from management

ICT1. Make further use of Mike Bates’ Website2. Further develop website links for pupils to support practice at home (backing

tracks/schemes)3. More training on building resources, particularly for websites

Other Stuff. 1. More careful consideration of travel time within teachers’ timetables.2. More use of Elective scholars 3. More opportunities for KS1 pupils to sing in high profile venues4. More localised bands for pupils who wish to move up from area bands but

not quite the standard for central ensemble5. Centralised exam system ABRSM or Trinity to save individual teachers

entering pupils.

Assistant Posts

Following the interviews I am delighted to inform you that we have appointed: Assistant to Head of Guitar & Keyboard Tom ReedAssistant to Head of Strings Verena Lauer Assistant to Head of Woodwind Craig HolmesEnsembles Assistant Kate O’Malley

We wish them well for next year and thank Adam, Emily Kate and Becky for all their hard work during this year.

RESOURCES – MIKE BATES

Can I please make a 3rd request and now urgent request for staff to fill in my resources form? The response has been very slow particularly from Ensemble Conductors.

http://resources4bms.yolasite.com/forms-and-info.php

The form can be downloaded from the above link or the email attachment with this Bulletin.

Or simply write down and email to me at

michaelhbates@msn.com

Thanks

Mike Bates

DEPARTMENTAL MATTERS

BRASS DEPARTMENT – MARTIN ORGILL

I sincerely hope that you have enjoyed this year. From a departmental point of view we have made excellent progress. I have had the privilege of observing some wonderful teaching; inspirational and challenging. They can work so hard and have so much fun they hardly notice that it is work. I have seen lesson content that was so carefully thought out, again really inspiring pupils. We often worry about pupils practising but if the repertoire is fun and they are enjoying their lessons the practise comes without a word from us.

Our use of ICT is moving forward, the websites which give access to songs, tunes, backing tracks, video support and background details work equally well everywhere. This means schools can use our material between lessons, pupils can use them at home and in school, they can print off music or just follow it on the screen and the backing tracks add so much to what is usually a fairly simple tune. I hope we continue to build an ever growing library of resources we can use for WCIT traditional teaching alike.

Our involvement in concerts has been thrilling both in area and central ensembles as well as our two instrument days, namely the Tuba, Euphonium and Baritone Horn Day and our Chamber Music Concert. Performances can be easily forgotten but every one of them represents an enormous effort from pupils and us. Performances will always be the highlights of our work and I thank everyone who has tried so hard this year to make theirs special.

GALAS

Why not join us for the Galas; a chance to see your pupils at their best. Your support and presence would be really appreciated. The ABH ones do tend to sell out but the Symphony Hall ones (Wednesday and Thursday, July 11th and 12th) will have plenty of capacity. Just send an email to Debbie for up to 2 free tickets per concert.

AUDITIONS

Will we ever get to the stage that every place for every instrument is filled with pupils of exactly the right attainment level? Well it hasn’t happened in the last 20 years and I think there will always be something to do here. Best news and this is a first, all French horn places are full and some like Training Wind Orchestra have a record breaking 11 members next year! WOW! Trumpets, cornets, flugels, tenor horns, baritone horns, euphonium and tubas are all fine as well. This is a huge number of children and a massive achievement. What about trombones I hear you ask; well that’s the problem this year. We need more.

BSWO have just 1, BSCO have 1 and BSJE are also short. Any ideas please.

We also have a shortage of trombones for Training Wind. At Grade 3 level surely there are some pupils who would take this on. Please encourage as many as possible.

And finally, it’ll be alright on the night

We all know that trombone players can play some notes on more than one slide position, an important piece of information as it can make some passages a lot easier to play. The note ‘F’ is a prime example; it can be played in 1 st and 6th

positions. A while ago I was teaching this very thing to a pupil when a head of music walked in to hear me say “and don’t forget F in 6th.”

BSBB full rehearsal. “Let’s try that one again” “1, 2, 3, 4 play”. Only two made itRule Britannia is a fine patriotic tune. The one design flaw it has when used for WCIT is a crotchet rest after the first three notes. One time we had about half a class full playing spare when my partner teacher said look its easy E, EFF off.

Years ago Bob had a few pupils come along to a first lesson. He pressed his valves down and asked if anyone knew what these were called. “Buttons” replied pupil 1. “no” pointing to buttons on his shirt, “ these are buttons”. “Keys” said pupil 2, “No” said Bob, thinking this is going well, he took out his car keys and said “these are keys”. Knobs said pupil 3.

Have a well deserved break everyone and see you in September when we will do it all again.

Martin

KEYBOARD AND GUITAR DEPARTMENT – NICOLA WALKER

Well the end of term seems to be approaching at a ridiculously fast rate……………….will there ever be time to fit everything in which still needs to be done?

SCHOLAR CONCERTS

The scholar concerts begin thiss week – so I hope you are all able to support your scholars and they are feeling suitably prepared for the event.

BATTLE OF THE BANDS

Our grand final will take place at Queensbridge on Monday 2nd July, commencing at 7.00 p.m. Please join us if you fancy a lively evening. We have seven excellent bands in the final – I don’t envy the judges! The winning band will then perform at the Gala concert in the Adrian Boult Hall on the following Tuesday, 10th July.

GUITAR DAYS

Well done to Adam for organising two great days for our guitar pupils during the week before half term. I was fortunate enough to take part in one of them and can say from first hand experience that a fabulous time was had by all. (Helped of course by the glorious weather we had……..remember that??)

SEPTEMBER

As always, we are waiting for schools to complete their order forms and return them to us in order to commence thinking about timetabling. I know that some of you may have some requests regarding the schools in which you teach, just as some

schools also have changes they may wish to make. This year, more than ever before, the mammoth task of trying to complete the jigsaw will be a difficult one.

I very much hope to be able to accommodate everyone’s wishes if possible, so if there are particular thoughts you wish to share with me please email/text them to me so there is a written record. I am hoping to begin timetabling during the last week of term with a view to it being completed during the first week of the holiday.

As you know from the last training day, we are taking on a considerable number of new WCIT classes in September – this is an area of teaching we need to succeed with if we wish schools to order us back! Please make sure you can attend the final training day on Friday 20th July (a.m.) as we shall be spending some time on resources and preparation for WCIT.

I hope you all have an enjoyable end to this very busy term and have some successful concerts with your pupils. I hope you will be able to make it to one or more of the gala concerts in the penultimate week of term. Check the list of events on the back of this bulletin for details of ‘what’s on’!

In case I don’t see you before the end of term – have a great summer break!

Nicola

Something to make you smile……………………………….

‘What is the difference between a guitarist and a Savings Bond? Eventually a Savings Bond will mature and earn money ‘Why was the piano invented?So musicians would have a place to put their beer.’

Guitar and Keyboard - Adam Hickman

PRIMARY GUITAR DAYS – MONDAY 28 TH MAY AND FRIDAY 1 ST JUNE 2012

This year the Primary Guitar Days were held at a new venue – the Midland Arts Centre. I am pleased to say both days were a success and approximately 80 children were involved from over 25 different schools. For many it was their very first ensemble experience and feedback since the event from parents and pupils has been very positive. The final concert also featured a performance by students from the Birmingham Conservatoire who kindly agreed to come and perform, both duos were really inspiring for the children. Hopefully, some of the children who took part will be keen to join Area Ensembles in September!

A big thank you to the following staff who were tutors on the day; Frances Griffin, Nick Chamberlain, Dean Noble, Rob Jackson, Marek Orszulik, Nicola Walker, Baden Hollingworth, Tom Reed, Paula Ewer, Simon Jennings and Will Wood. Also, many thanks to all BMS guitar teachers who nominated students to attend – all involved had a great day!

ROCK GUITAR DAY – MONDAY 30 TH APRIL 2012

The Rock Guitar Day successfully ‘rocked’ the Midland Arts Centre with 37 children involved from 18 different schools across the city. The students were absolutely fantastic and worked tremendously hard during the rehearsals and the final concert was a real highlight featuring some excellent solo performances from four electric guitar scholars.

A big thank you to the following staff who were tutors on the day; Wes Bonham, Will Wood, Tom Reed, Simon Jennings, Alan Mason and Dean Noble.

CENTRAL ENSEMBLE GUITAR AUDITIONS

Central Ensemble Guitar Auditions were held on Thursday 10th May 2012, all three groups were over-subscribed and all places have now been filled. Those who were unsuccessful in applying to BSTGE have all been offered a place in Area Ensembles for September. Many thanks to all staff who nominated and encouraged students to audition. It was particularly encouraging to see students who were unsuccessful last year return this year and gain a place.

Have a great summer!

Adam

FOR SALE

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Google it for more details or email me at tempestroger@hotmail.com.

I have put a couple of samples on my website www.rogertempest.co.uk (click on 'entertainment' then'saxjazz'.

Many Thanks

Roger

PERCUSSION AND WORLD MUSIC DEPARTMENT – HARJIT SINGH

Dear Members of Department,

I hope all teaching in schools and the ensembles is going well and we are now preparing for the concerts for this term.

A BIG thank you to all the percussion staff who have worked hard getting the pupils ready for auditions and also a big thank you to Sarah and Vicky for audition evenings which had the highest turn out for years. It was very successful over two days with good results….

All this work has now made a difference to other ensembles where we needed percussionists and these places are now full…….WELL DONE

Also well done to Stephon, Gurdeep, Jagdev and Harjinder who were involved in gala and area concerts, keep the good work going!!!Serial numbers and stickers if you need any more, email or txt me so I can sort this out.

Any changes that effect a school on your timetable MUST be notified as soon as possible to Head of Department and Admin staff, you cannot make any changes without consulting the above mentioned??

AST support is available if any one wishes to have their expertise and guidance in areas of music education?

I would like to thank all the other members of the department with the great work they deliver in schools and the input they have in the department.

Have a good summer break and see you in the new term.

Harjit

STRING DEPARTMENT – SALLY HOBBS

Hi everyone,

I hope you had a restful half term and are ready for the final push!

I wanted to briefly give you some feedback on the recent auditions.

Personally it was fantastic to be involved again after missing out last year. It is always an insightful overview of ‘where we are at’ as a department across all instruments and ensembles and a special thanks goes to the panellists who so generously gave up their time - I couldn’t have done it without you! Results are on their way but of course you are welcome to call me about individual pupils and reports are available for feedback. I have already sent through the full lists to conductors and you are welcome to see those as well.

Moderation is always a concern of course but I spent a lot of Sunday time looking at both reports, talking to staff and then Emily, myself and Heather considered and collated. I feel confident that we have some really strong sections - the standard overall was better than I remembered and there are candidates who reached the required standard but are on the waiting list for a place.

With the exception of double basses - just two - and violas -a section of only four at BSSO level all other ensemble sections are full and with competent players -hurrah! There is also a cunning plan to re-audition some weak 2nd year Concert Orchestra violinists in September with a view to converting them to viola with lots of help and additional rehearsal time with Ian.

Orders are slowly trickling in-anything you can do to speed up the process is gratefully received! And now is the time to talk to me about your schools and thoughts for next year, this will hopefully link through to the professional conversations that you had - a good time to reflect and review? I have completed visits now so Wednesdays and Fridays are good to catch me in the office for a chat and a cup of tea…

Since our departmental meeting is now incorporated into the last day of term will you all please come with some feedback on your year, additionally I would like to discuss elective teaching in some depth. We will also decide on lower and upper string priorities with a view to spending more time on these in September. Please contact me if you have any other Agenda items you would like to see included.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank Emily for being such a fantastic assistant this year and to congratulate Verena Lauer on her appointment for next year, I t has made such a difference to have the assistants’ input these past few years.

I look forward to seeing as many of you as possible at the forthcoming Scholar and Gala concerts.

Sally

“It is not the brains that matter most, but that which guides them - the character, the heart, generous qualities, progressive ideas.” Dostoyevsky

VOCAL DEPARTMENT – RUTH ROBERTS

Hello Everyone,

The busiest time of the year is upon us. Rehearsals for our three Gala events have started well:

Music Theatre Choir has welcomed some new singers and the sound is a promising balanced three parts. The upper register is particularly sonorous – so well done vocal teachers for their input!

Primary Gala Choir massed rehearsal filled Ladywood Arc earlier this week. 311 singers came prepared to warble and confident with the repertoire. Sarah Baker’s wonderful backing track resources have really made an impact to the quality of singing this year. You will receive and email for pointers to work on in your schools choirs before the big day on Wednesday 11th July.

Secondary Gala Choir satellite rehearsals are up and running and the repertoire is proving popular.

Thank you to all staff involved in these projects. As ever, they are always a team effort. Singing along and a sense of humour are a perfect antidote to the millions of things to do!

TIMETABLES 2012/2013 Some but not all of you have replied in regard to your timetables next year.I’d be grateful if you would answer these questions and send them via email to me as soon as you can.

Are your working hours changing next year?Are your working days changing next year?Are your working times changing next year?Have any of you schools told you they reducing their order of hours?Have any of your schools told you they intend to increase their order of hours?Do you have any preferences regarding schools?Do you have any other information relevant to timetabling for next year? Draft timetabling will be happening during Gala week (w/b 9th July) and in earnest on Monday 15th July. I would be grateful if I get in contact on these dates for you reply promptly so that the jigsaw can be completed as painlessly as possible. JUBILEE SONG SUCCESS Sarah Baker has composed a very catchy Jubilee song which she posted on the TES website. It became very popular and was downloaded repeatedly so…..we’re trying to get to perform it during the Queen’s visit in July. Congratulations Sarah and watch this space!

SEPTEMBER….. Our inset in September will be about looking at the year ahead and target setting for pupils. All staff should make every effort to attend in order to be fully briefed about the department’s direction for the year ahead.

STAFF NEWS We say goodbye and au revoir to a number of staff this term. Wioletta Francis starts her maternity leave just before the end of term and Carly Richards begins her maternity leave towards the end of the holidays. We wish them every happiness with welcoming their new arrivals and look forward to hearing all their news. Naomi Green is moving onto pastures new. She is returning to the classroom at St Matthews Primary. We wish her every success in her new position and insist she

stays in touch. Naomi joined BMS in 2002 and has been a caring and active member of the vocal department. Thank you so much for all your hard work and music making over the years.

STAFF SOCIAL…… I’ll be sending a round robin email to arrange things……. See you all soon at the Scholar Concerts/ Gala Concerts etc The summer holidays are just around the corner! Ruth

WOODWIND DEPARTMENT – CIARAN O’DONNELL

It is hard to believe there is only five weeks left! I sent you all a nice email last month to thank you for the great work you’ve done over the last term which was really busy. I won’t repeat myself here but I’ve done a little checklist of things for you to think about between now and the holidays...then you can relax.

All pupil profiles should have been completed and handed out now.

If you had pupils taking ABRSM examinations, the certificates and mark sheets are in an envelope on my desk for you to collect.

Elective letters should have been approved by Head Teachers and be out with your Y4 classes now so that they have plenty of time to work out numbers for next year.

You should think about coming to one of the end of year Gala concerts – they are so good and if you get a date in your diary now you won’t be disappointed - w/b 9th July.

Staff Summer BBQ at my house will be on Saturday 14th July from 7.00pm. This will be a well-earned evening of fun and frolics. Please bring something to drink. I will provide the meat but it would be helpful if any budding chefs wish to bring some side dishes.

You should book your professional conversation with me. It’s not compulsory but it’s helpful before I begin the timetabling process.

You should have some idea of what schools are ordering next year – gentle polite reminders are good at this time of year.

Let John know about any potential cancellations...or if you feel a school are wobbling in terms of re-ordering. He will contact them.

TRAINING DAY MORNING – FRIDAY 20 TH JULY 9.30 – 12.30 On this morning we will have a departmental meeting to start. During this meeting I would like you to bring to mind areas where you feel you would benefit from training next year. I have some ideas on this but I would like you to have a think before the meeting. I would also like your feedback on how we have met the departmental targets individually and as a team this year. To remind you they were:

To inspire and motivate children and young people to play ‘musically’ as well as accurately, particularly in preparing for central ensemble auditions. (monitored in concerts/ events/ auditions/ chamber concert strategy for staff)

To continue with the expansion of sharing and contributing to the woodwind resources in dropbox. (monitored through the folder and supported through ICT training in January at Hillcrest Dotcom centre)

To investigate, improve and disseminate a repertoire tree including linked compositional activities for embedding key skills for all instruments. (Assistant Head of Woodwind – working party – spring training day)

We will then have a think about what we might like to prioritise for next year. As always, I think this should come from you with my input instead of the other way around - so it is important to think about it before the meeting.

ENSEMBLE VACANCIES

We have some vacancies in central ensembles next year. We could take some late auditions for the following instruments/ ensembles should you wish to offer this opportunity to pupils:Flute Choir - grade 3 standard – could accept 6/ 7 more studentsTraining winds – grade 3 / 4 standard – Oboe and Bassoon vacanciesConcert Band – grade 5 standard – Flute Vacancies

Have a productive end to the term.

Many thanks,

Ciaran

SING UP - CLAIRE HOLLOCKSSing Up (www.singup.org)

1. Sing Up Membership Sing Up has now become a membership organisation, as it is no longer funded by the government.

a. School MembershipSing Up are charging schools for an annual package including full access to the website and training. At present the price has been lowered to include two free months in July/August. There are offers for different sizes of schools. Please encourage your schools to subscribe. Details are on the website. Sing Up is such a useful resource especially for staff less confident teaching singing and also it means you can get access through your school.

b. Local Provider Membership/ Music Service

As the Music Service will be a deliverer of training for Sing Up we are allocated 5 user IDs until July with access to the website, limited downloads and other localised training. I am selecting those at present but am exploring access options. After July only named staff delivering training will have full access. Obviously we have more than 5 members of our service who use Sing Up! The membership package for music services is still not operational yet although I am still assured it is on its way. So, in the meantime again ……

c. Friends membership/ Individual MembershipAnyone who has registered with Sing Up before is now automatically a “friend” of Sing Up and anyone new can register for this too on www.singup.org. Being a “friend” is free and gives you limited access and downloads as follows –Full access to 10 songs from the digital songbook (inc. public domain downloads)30 second previews of songs / Lesson & activity plans & video tutorialsThere is an individual package available for freelancers at a cost of £60 a year. Having looked at what this offers beyond the “friend” status, the only significant thing is 1000 streams of songs directly into the classroom. It only gives you 12 downloads of choice including copyright material and you still have to buy the Sing Up magazine. I have suggested to Sing Up that people who have invested in this might expect at least a digital magazine. There are other small advantages with this package e.g. money off training etc.

To conclude then, at present, I would suggest all staff make do with the limited “friend” resources until we are informed about music service membership. Do go on the website and look at the membership packages in the meantime.

2. Sing Up Magazines

The following people still have outstanding magazines that can be collected if you are dropping into the Music Service offices –

Jade Bultitude Alastair Wingate (2) Laura Mattison (2) Dan Robertson (2) Liz Peake Alison Timms Alastair Wingate (2) Gill Steventon Ruth Woolley Elizabeth Wrighton Jac White Laura Ashton (2) Sarah Wright-Owens Katie Stevens (2) Sophie Hickman Jane Allin Ian Foster Helen Ashwood

Wishing you a very successful final half term

Claire

ENSEMBLES – HEATHER CLEMSON

CENTRAL ENSEMBLES

GALA CONCERTS 9 TH – 13 TH JULY 7.00PM Help Please??If there are any of you who would be able to offer help during any part of a Gala Concert day and/or for the stage change in the interval – at the Adrian Boult Hall or Symphony Hall – please let me know as soon as possible – the help needed is a bit like the life of a viola player: some dull

repetitive moments, some off beat moments - interspersed with occasional frantic moments!

`Space`Concert 1 - Monday 9th July Adrian Boult HallCompere: Edward SmithTraining Wind Ensemble, Training Jazz Ensemble, Steel Band, Azaad Dhol GroupTurves Green Area Rock Band, North Area Percussion Ensemble, Concert Brass Band

`Earth`Concert 2 - Tuesday 10th July Adrian Boult HallCompere: Ian HayesTraining Brass Band, Recorder Sinfonia, Music Theatre Choir, String SinfoniaBattle of The Bands 2012 Competition Winner, Flute Choir, Jazz Ensemble

`Fire`Concert 3 - Wednesday 11th July Symphony HallCompere: Michael ColliePrimary Schools` Gala Choir, Percussion Ensemble, Training Guitar EnsembleBrass Band, Symphony Orchestra

`Air`Concert 4 - Thursday 12th July Symphony HallCompere: Michael CollieSecondary Schools` Gala Choir, Training Percussion Ensemble, Guitar EnsembleConcert Band, Concert Orchestra

`Water`Concert 5 - Friday 13th July Adrian Boult HallCompere: Stuart BirnieJunior String Orchestra, Guitar Sinfonia, CBSO Young Voices, Brass EnsembleRecorder Ensemble, Wind Orchestra.

COMPLIMENTARY TICKETS FOR BMS CONCERTSI would like to encourage any members of staff who work with pupils who are in, or who may have auditioned for the ensembles, to please take advantage of our complimentary tickets to Music Service concerts. It is great for pupils to know that you are seeing them perform in a different context and that you are supporting their musical development.

There are a limited number of complimentary tickets available to staff on a first come first served basis – please ring the office if you wish to reserve a ticket for a particular concert.See Gala Concerts above.

We thank Alison Timms for all her wonderful work with Junior Strings over the last seven years as she will hang up her JSO baton after their Gala Concert on the 13th. We wish her well for a slightly more relaxed future.

VACANCY – CONDUCTOR: JUNIOR STRING ORCHESTRA

Applications are invited for Conductor of the Junior String Orchestra, which rehearses every Saturday morning during term time from 9.15 – 11.45am at King Edward High School for Girls, Edgbaston Park Rd, Birmingham, B15 2UB A minimum of three concerts is given each year.

Entry level is from Grade 3. Payment for this post is at the sessional conductor rate (currently £33.52 per hour) for 2.5 hours per week.

Apart from the weekly commitment of conducting at scheduled rehearsals, it is expected you will be available to conduct the Junior String Orchestra at all concerts. Conductors plan rehearsals and concerts, deploy tutors and provide music for the group. If you wish to apply please send a letter of application, together with a copy of your CV, detailing relevant experience, to Heather Clemson (heather.clemson@birmingham.gov.uk) at the Music Centre by Friday 6th July.

Interviews, during which applicants will be expected to take part of a rehearsal, will take place in September.

VACANCY – PERCUSSION TUTOR: CONCERT BRASS BAND

A Percussion Tutor is required for Birmingham Schools` Concert Brass Band. The band rehearses every Monday from 6.30 – 8.45pm during term time at Swanshurst School, Brook Lane, Billesley, B13 OTW. A minimum of three concerts is given each year, and a wide repertoire is covered. Payment for this post is at the sessional rate (currently £27.07 per hour) for 2.00 hours per week.The Percussion tutor will be responsible for coaching the ensemble – by agreement with the conductor. Apart from the weekly commitment of attending and tutoring at scheduled rehearsals, it is expected you will be available to attend all concerts. If you wish to apply please send a letter of application, together with a copy of your CV, detailing relevant experience, to Heather Clemson (heather.clemson@birmingham.gov.uk) at the Music Centre by Friday 6th July.

Interviews, during which applicants will be expected to take part of a sectional rehearsal, will take place in September.

VACANCY – PERCUSSION TUTOR: TRAINING BRASS BAND

A Percussion Tutor is required for Birmingham Schools` Training Brass Band. The band rehearses every Thursday from 6.00 – 7.45pm during term time at Swanshurst School, Brook Lane, Billesley, B13 OTW. A minimum of three concerts is given each year, and a wide repertoire is covered. Payment for this post is at the sessional rate (currently £27.07 per hour) for 1.5 hours per week.

The Percussion tutor will be responsible for coaching the ensemble - by agreement with the conductor. Apart from the weekly commitment of attending and tutoring at scheduled rehearsals, it is expected you will be available to attend all concerts. If you wish to apply please send a letter of application, together with a copy of your CV, detailing relevant experience, to Heather Clemson (heather.clemson@birmingham.gov.uk) at the Music Centre by Friday 6th July.

Interviews, during which applicants will be expected to take part of a sectional rehearsal, will take place in September.

VACANCY – TROMBONE TUTOR: CONCERT ORCHESTRA

A Trombone Tutor is required for Birmingham Schools` Concert Brass Band. The band rehearse every Thursday from 6.30 – 8.45pm during term time at St Paul`s School for Girls, Vernon Rd, Edgbaston, B16 9SL. A minimum of three concerts is given each year, and a wide repertoire is covered. Payment for this post is at the sessional rate (currently £27.07 per hour) for 2.00 hours per week.

The Trombone tutor will be responsible for coaching the ensemble - by agreement with the conductor. Apart from the weekly commitment of attending and tutoring at scheduled rehearsals, it is expected you will be available to attend all concerts. If you wish to apply please send a letter of application, together with a copy of your CV, detailing relevant experience, to Heather Clemson (heather.clemson@birmingham.gov.uk) at the Music Centre by Friday 6th July.

Interviews, during which applicants will be expected to take part of a sectional rehearsal, will take place in September.

VACANCY – TROMBONE TUTOR: CONCERT BRASS BAND

A Trombone Tutor is required for Birmingham Schools` Concert Brass Band. The band rehearses every Monday from 6.30 – 8.45pm during term time at Swanshurst School, Brook Lane, Billesley, B13 OTW. A minimum of three concerts is given each year, and a wide repertoire is covered. Payment for this post is at the sessional rate (currently £27.07 per hour) for 2.00 hours per week.The trombone tutor will be responsible for coaching the ensemble – by agreement with the conductor. Apart from the weekly commitment of attending and tutoring at scheduled rehearsals, it is expected you will be available to attend all concerts. If you wish to apply please send a letter of application, together with a copy of your CV, detailing relevant experience, to Heather Clemson (heather.clemson@birmingham.gov.uk) at the Music Centre by Friday 6th July.

Interviews, during which applicants will be expected to take part of a sectional rehearsal, will take place in September.

VACANCY – FRENCH HORN TUTOR: TRAINING BRASS BAND

A French Horn Tutor is required for Birmingham Schools` Training Brass Band. The band rehearses every Thursday from 6.00 – 7.45pm during term time at Swanshurst School, Brook Lane, Billesley, B13 OTW. A minimum of three concerts is given each year, and a wide repertoire is covered. Payment for this post is at the sessional rate (currently £27.07 per hour) for 1.5 hours per week.

The French Horn tutor will be responsible for coaching the ensemble - by agreement with the conductor. Apart from the weekly commitment of attending and tutoring at scheduled rehearsals, it is expected you will be available to attend all concerts. If you wish to apply please send a letter of application, together with a copy of your CV, detailing relevant experience, to Heather Clemson (heather.clemson@birmingham.gov.uk) at the Music Centre by Friday 6th July.

Interviews, during which applicants will be expected to take part of a sectional rehearsal, will take place in September.

VACANCY – FRENCH HORN TUTOR: TRAINING WIND ORCHESTRA

A French Horn Tutor is required for Birmingham Schools` Training Wind Orchestra. The band rehearses every Saturday from 9.30 – 12.00noon during term time at Selly Park Technology College, 5 Selly Park Rd, B29 7PH. A minimum of three concerts is given each year, and a wide repertoire is covered. Payment for this post is at the sessional rate (currently £27.07 per hour) for 1.5 hours per week.

The French Horn tutor will be responsible for coaching the ensemble - by agreement with the conductor. Apart from the weekly commitment of attending and tutoring at scheduled rehearsals, it is expected you will be available to attend all concerts. If you wish to apply please send a letter of application, together with a copy of your CV, detailing relevant experience, to Heather Clemson (heather.clemson@birmingham.gov.uk) at the Music Centre by Friday 6th July.

Interviews, during which applicants will be expected to take part of a sectional rehearsal, will take place in September.

AUDITION RESULTS

Results will be going out to all pupils from Monday 2nd July.Registration Forms need to be returned by all pupils to the office by Friday 13th July.

AREA ENSEMBLES

An Area Ensembles information flyer will be going out with audition results as appropriate – to those pupils who have not been offered a place in one of our central training (entry level) ensembles.

Profile – Ed Smith – June 2012

I am indebted to my parents for……being musicians themselves, and telling me it wasn’t a good career to go into………..

Cello – why?....There is a picture of me pretending to play an upside-down Viola at 18 Months, I think it was probably staged, I started the cello properly at 5.........

Did school inspire you or did you rebel or perhaps both? I just knuckled down and got through at school, I was inspired by my music making, choirs, orchestras and the people I met through it.

Where did you study after school? Birmingham Conservatoire 1997-2001

You may not know it but I`m really good at…Mountain Biking, and I fall off regularly…….

Desert island disc or discs?....Grieg – Holberg Suite, Dvorak – Cello Concerto, Tchaik 5.............and what do you think you`d like to take with you to the island?…My family, I have two children 5 & 4 who are just so important to me…

You may not know it but I`m no good at – keeping slim

Favourite piece of art or artist? – not really but I love the outdoors, countryside so it would have to be landscapes.

Apart from saving your family - what would you grab as you ran out of your house if it was on fire? Photo Album since the children were born

Ambitions…To be a good father to my children……….

Six words to sum your life up…More of a motto for me ‘Act justly, love mercy and walk humbly with your God’..

Tell us a secret…I actually enjoy my job, and feel very privileged in what I do for BMS.……………Thank you to Ed for contributing his profile this month.

Hope you can all come along and listen to our Gala Concerts – full of sparkling and amazing performances from all your pupils!

Congratulations on another fabulous year – I am very grateful to you all for all your hard work and support.

Happy Hols!

Heather

ENSEMBLES ASSISTANT – BECKY SKINNER

I would just like to say a huge ‘Thank You’ to everyone who has helped me during my year as Heather’s assistant. I can’t believe how quickly this year has gone, it only seems like two minutes since I started in September and here we are in June. All the events have been fantastic this year and I have really enjoyed working with all the ensembles and seeing the amazing work you all do to get them there.

To everyone involved in all the events, thank you so much for making it such and enjoyable year.

Becky

BIRMINGHAM MUSIC SERVICECalendar of Events – July 2012.

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Monday July 2nd Audition Results sent out.

Monday July 9th Gala Concert 1 Adrian Boult Hall 7.00pm

Tuesday July 10th Gala Concert 2 Adrian Boult Hall 7.00pm

Wednesday July 11th Gala Concert 3 *Symphony Hall* 7.00pm

Thursday July 12th Gala Concert 4 Symphony Hall 7.00pm

Friday July 13th Gala Concert 5 *Adrian Boult Hall* 7.00pm

Sunday November 25th Central Ensembles Concert Adrian Boult Hall 2.30pm

Sunday December 2nd BSSO Concert Adrian Boult Hall 7.30pm

Saturday December 8th Christmas Concert Birmingham Town Hall 6.00pm

Saturday December 15th Central Ensembles Concert Adrian Boult Hall 7.00pm