Oboe Holiday began in 2004 to help fulfill the needs of growing oboists.  A group of 10 students, one pianist (Lee Jordon-Anders), a repairman (Brian Seaton) and myself gathered around my piano in my living room for a week-long day camp.  The setting was intimate where lots of learning took place at an affordable cost.  The camp culminated in a participant recital at Lee’s beautiful house where proud parents and friends gathered to witness the growth that everyone had experienced over the week.

 

Oboe Holiday is designed with growing needs of developing oboists in mind, whether they are self-taught or have had private instruction, to help them more easily achieve the joy of making music.  Daily afternoon classes are designed for all levels to assist the musician in discovering more about themselves through the art of playing the oboe.  Discussion classes are designed to enable the performer to be more present and in control of his or her skills through breathing, performance focus, reed making, self-evaluation, learning good habits, as well as general instrument care and repair.  This year we will also discuss careers in music since there are many graduating seniors!  The classes provide a nurturing environment with other like-minded students at all levels.  Generally, these classes are designed to help the student find their inner guidance to better direct their personal energies.

 

Basic materials are provided.  Additional supplies for some classes are available for separate purchase, IE: Breath Builder ($15).  Participants need to bring with them a notebook for keeping notes, instruments, reeds and music….and a willingness to learn.

 

Repertoire class allows the performer to gain the rewarding experience of working with a professional pianist, Lee Jordan-Anders, while unaccompanied pieces are also explored.  Participants can bring their own solo or may get assigned one appropriate for their ability level.  Focusing on self awareness and providing constructive commentary on the performance of others, this class culminates with a recital in an artfully unique performance space followed by a reception.

 

Brian Seaton of North American Oboe House, a nationally acclaimed oboe repairman, will be back again to teach classes as well as to provide his repair services for student and professional musicians.  Each student gets a chance to make general adjustments on their very own instrument.  His service appointments are available to anyone in the community and can be booked thru me.

 

So, if you are or know of a budding oboist who may enjoy some direction or one that can improve his or her skills to become more deeply involved in their experience feel free to recommend this day camp.  The affordable rates and convenient time schedule make this an easy and rewarding experience for all involved.  Daily refreshments are provided.