3-day Intermediate course with David Hall

Our 3-day course for Intermediate pianists is designed to allow a bit more space to take things at slower pace and in more depth. It also offers chance for our Lower Intermediates to progress onto the next step if they’ve been considering it a while!

Aimed at pianists around grades 4-6 playing level, the course is led by our Music Director and author of There’s more to playing piano David Hall. Guests can expect his signature inspiration alongside an encouraging and flexible teaching style.

During your stay, David will cover the following topics in his interactive workshops:

• Workshop 1 – Making the most of your weekend. How to:
  – practice efficiently and effectively
  – structure a practice session
  – ensure practice is creative and enjoyable
• Workshop 2 – There’s More to Playing the Piano Part 1
  Exploring intervals, chords and lead sheets. 
• Workshop 3 – There’s More to Playing the Piano Part 2
  Tips for developing sight-reading and aural skills.

There will also be time for private practice on one of our beautiful grand pianos. And for those who would like, our tutor will give three one-to-one lessons on our new Steinway to provide individual pointers and tips.

On the Saturday night, David will perform a private salon concert for retreat guests, which is an opportunity to relax and be inspired with a glass of wine in the magical setting of the main hall of Finchcocks!

We have one grand piano available for every guest in our vaulted cellars, including our new Steinway. Piano conversation will flow freely over coffee and home made biscuits and cakes in between bouts of practice!

During the course of their stay guests will:

• Enjoy access to play on our 9 grand pianos anytime between 7am and 8pm. (There are enough pianos to go round that everyone can play a piano at any given time.)
• Enjoy a one-to-one lesson with our tutor.
• Experience a private recital for retreat guests in the main hall of the family home, performed by our tutor.
• Join and socialise with a group 8 fellow piano enthusiasts during lunch and dinner.
• Dine in style with lunches and three course dinners prepared by our fabulous chef.
• Experience the Finchcocks bubble, hailed as a “paradise for pianists” by BBC Music Magazine and stay in a grade 1 listed country manor.
• Be able to explore the Kentish countryside and local attractions should they wish a trip out.

Plus ones are very welcome on our courses, with a room surcharge dependant on whether they are a playing or non-playing guest. Please ask for further details.

Starting at 10am on the Friday, this extended stay gives upper intermediate pianists chance to really absorb and embed new tips and strategies into their playing. If it sounds of interest, please drop Jenny a line using the form below.