Recorders, Percussion, and Traditional Music with Nina Stern and Glen Velez
Classes in recorder technique, beginning and advanced percussion, traditional music.
Enrichment and growth opportunities for percussionists, recorder players, music teachers and others.
Recorder virtuoso Nina Stern and preeminent frame drummer Glen Velez will present a series of classes at the Amherst Early Music Festival this summer in New London, Connecticut. Based on their own researches into melodies and rhythms from across the globe and from the Middle Ages to the present, Nina and Glen have assembled a rich repertoire for music lovers to learn and enjoy: dances of the Balkans, eighteenth-century Armenian songs, estampies from Medieval Italy, and more.

Here are some of the class descriptions!
Traditional Repertories: Flutes and Drums Around the World
[FD2.2] Stern, Velez; an exploration of traditional music from all over the globe, with special emphasis on music from the Middle East, Armenia, and Eastern Europe; open to students new to the repertory and those wanting to improve their skills. Students will explore the rhythms of the regions through percussion instruments and the melodies through their chosen instrument. We’ll also delve into adding percussion to Medieval and Renaissance melodies and ensemble music. For players of all instruments (recorder, flute, viol, lute etc.) and percussion. (Late AM 11-12:15)
Tambourine and Frame Drum
[Per3.2] Velez; use of drum language will allow us to delve more deeply into the tonal possibilities of the tambourine and the frame drum. Finger rolls, pitch bends, and articulation of the jingles will be thoroughly explored. For those with some experience with a tambourine or a frame drum. Drums will be provided. If you have a tambourine or a frame drum, bring it. (Early PM 1:45-3:00)
Tambourine and Frame Drum for Beginners
[PerBeg4.2] Velez; learn the basics of several tambourine and frame drum techniques that are applicable to early music or any musical situation. Arabic, South Italian, Basque and South Indian source materials will be drawn upon. No experience necessary. Drums will be provided. If you have a tambourine or a frame drum, bring it. (Late PM 3:30-4:45)
In addition to classes with Nina and Glen, students will be able to choose from classes in other subjects, including vocal music, medieval and renaissance repertory, instrumental improvisation, large group playing, beginning instruments and more. Not on our mailing list? Please join our mailing list to stay in the loop.