The Serpentarium 2009
Cape Cornwall, 22-25 May
The Serpentarium is a biennial gathering of all who are interested
in the serpent and related instruments: players, makers, restorers and
collectors.
There will be coaching sessions and ensemble playing. The general aim
is to stimulate enthusiasm for the instrument whilst having fun.
The eighth happening of this biennial event will again be hosted by
Nigel Nathan and his wife Thelma Griffiths at Boswedden House in
the far west of Cornwall (the closest we can get in England to our friends
in the USA!). Phil Humphries of, amongst other things, the London
Serpent Trio, will once more be at hand to guide our musical meanderings.
Complete beginners are welcome; also players of related instruments
such as the ophicleide, bass horn, Russian bassoon and the early cimbasso. The
programme will include coaching at all levels, playing in small groups,
and the ritual performance of some of the large-scale pieces that have
been written for such occasions. The London Serpent Trio library, a
large collection of arrangements, and pieces written specially for the
group by composers including Simon Proctor, Judith Weir, and P.D.Q.
Bach, will be there for the plundering. If possible - and desirable
- arrangements will be made for a public performance.
The Serpentarium spans the U.K.’s late Spring Bank Holiday weekend. It
starts with dinner at 6pm on Friday 22nd May, but you are welcome to
arrive any time before that and hang out or explore. It finishes at
tea time on Monday 25th May.
The Serpentarium will be residential with space for 14-16 in the house,
a camping option and overflow accommodation nearby. Since this
is a holiday weekend, this latter may not be available for late bookers
who may therefore be forced to camp – so book early! Most
rooms will be shared. If you have a world-class snore, or other
unsocial habits, we can let you have one of the two single rooms –
first come, first served. If you want a double room with your partner,
let us know.
The total cost is £210 (£150 for campers) for the three
days, all found. Non-playing partners £165. A £60/$110/€80
booking deposit secures a place.
For those of you who would like to make a longer holiday of it in order
to explore this beautiful and fascinating part of the world, you will
be welcome to come early/stay on as regular B&B guests (at £29
per night).
Do come and be part of another convivial Serpentarium.
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