Accordion Weekend Level 1-3

Our accordion workshop weekend is a chance for Level 1 to Level 3 accordionists to grab a whole bag of pick’n’mix techniques and tips from three brilliant players and tutors.

Course leader Paul Hutchinson leading UK folk accordionist and composer Amy Thatcher and (replacing Tamsin Elliott) musician and historian Danny Pedler.

The weekend offers workshops honing technique, repertoire and interpretation of folk tunes and accompaniment, as well as a chance to look at creating your own tunes and playing together. There will also be time for informal evening sessions and tune sharings.

Who is it for?

This course is for Beginner to Intermediate players. We recommend having a look at our accordion course levels to find out if this course would be suitable for you.

You’ll need to be able to read music, and in the higher levels, know your way around your instrument with some degree of confidence. If you consider yourself to be Level 1, a willingness to learn is key! You’ll also need to have your own instrument.

The Team

Paul Hutchinson studied piano and church organ before being persuaded at the age of 17 to take up the accordion and form a ceilidh band. Since then he’s become one of the best-known and in-demand players on the folk scene. In the UK and beyond, he was one half of duo Belshazzar’s Feast, and a member of Hoover the Dog, Pagoda Project (with Karen Wimhurst), and PLF. Paul is a regular tutor and musician at Halsway Manor, and has been the accordion tutor for EFDSS at Cecil Sharp House.

Amy Thatcher a North East England-based accordionist, is one of the UK’s leading folk musicians, known for collaborations with Kathryn Tickell, Sting, The Shee, and Monster Ceilidh Band. A Newcastle University Folk Music graduate, her career includes international performances, solo albums, and cross-genre projects, earning acclaim for her innovation in global folk music.

Danny Pedler (Tarren, Pedler//Russell) is a musician and historian rooted in the English Folk tradition. Performing with Accordion, Hurdy-Gurdy and voice Danny works with traditional tunes, songs and tales to make new music that moves people. Danny believes that Folk music is a unique vehicle for raising modern issues; a musical culture deeply rooted in humanity that unites us and allows us to talk. Stylistically, Danny's music is inspired from rhythms found in southern England, especially his native East Anglia. He grew up learning morris tunes and his distinctive accordion style prioritises the lift and bounce of this music while incorporating versatility and finesse.

Tamsin Elliott is no longer able to join us due to an amazing opportunity to go and work with the Liverpool Philharmonic over this weekend. We wish Tamsin lots of luck with the project!