CLARINET & SAX WEEKEND (2025)
Saturday 22nd & Sunday 23rd November
Join us here at Dawkes in Maidenhead for a fun & inspiring weekend of Clarinet & Sax related events at our store!
Our next Clarinet & Sax Weekend is now LIVE for bookings! We’re running things slightly differently this time by offering 1 x day for Clarinet, and 1 x day for Saxophone.
Each day has 2-3 tutors who will lead a varied program of events. The only requirement is that attendees are Grade 3+:
Group Ensembles: So attendees can play more!
Masterclass/Workshops: Learning through demo & discussion
Live Performances: A chance to be inspired by the best!
Prices start from £15
Tickets NOW AVAILABLE!
Saturday 22nd & Sunday 23rd November
Clarinet Day
The weekend starts on Saturday with our dedicated Clarinet Day. We will have two professionals leading a variety of sessions, as outlined below. Firstly we welcome clarinettist Peter Cigleris (Backun Clarinet Artist) who is in demand as a soloist and chamber musician around Europe. Peter has appeared on BBC Radio Three’s In Tune programme playing live with the Tippett Quartet.
As a solo recording artist Peter has a growing discography. Peter’s most recent release ‘Rediscovered’ on the Cala Signum label has Peter as soloist with the BBC National Orchestra of Wales featuring four British clarinet concertos, of which three are world premiere recordings.
NOTE: We encourage you to bring your instruments and play during the ensemble and masterclass/workshop sessions.
10am: Welcome & Registration
10.30am-Midday: Clarinet Ensemble Playing
Midday-1pm: Break for Lunch
1pm-2.30pm: Masterclass Session (volunteer players welcome)
2.30pm-3pm: Performance ft. Peter Cigleris & Accompanist
The afternoon carries on with Simon Bates (Yamaha Performing Artist) who will be delivering his interactive ‘Introduction to Melodic Jazz Improvisation’ workshop. This is aimed at anyone who wants to take their first steps into simple improvisation on the Clarinet but need a guiding hand. Simon breaks through the jargon to deliver his easy to use technique for any player. The day will finish with Simon giving a 50 minute ‘set’ with his pianist.
4pm-5.30pm: Intro to Melodic Jazz Improvisation (Workshop)
6pm-7pm: Simon & Accompanist Jazz ‘Set’
Saturday 22nd November
Saxophone Day
We’ve packed this day with ALL things Saxophone with lots of opportunity for you to play! We’re delighted to be joined by three highly regarded performers; Alastair Penman, Gerard McChrystal & Jenni Watson. Not only will there be group ensemble playing, but we’ll be inviting volunteers to perform in the masterclass sessions. The day will finish up with an inspirational performance featuring all three visiting professionals.
NOTE: We encourage you to bring your instruments and play during the ensemble and masterclass/workshop sessions. (Sop, Alto, Tenor, Baritone)
10am: Welcome & Registration
10.15am-Midday: Sax Ensemble Playing (with Alastair & Gerard)
Midday-1pm: Break for Lunch & Selmer Quiz (with prizes!)
Afternoon Sessions: Jenni Watson will be joining us & attendees can choose from a variety of sessions:
1pm-2pm: Masterclass Session #1 (x3 Options: Gear/Set-Up Advice - Composition - Performance Masterclass)
2.15pm-3.15pm: Masterclass Session #2 (x3 Options: Live Electronics - Extended Techniques - Performance Masterclass)
3.30pm-4pm: Performance ft. Alastair, Gerard & Jenni
Sunday 23rd November
