Playing in a Duo

We’re delighted to be welcoming duo James Delarre & Saul Rose, who have been here before with other bands but not as a pair, for a deep dive into what it takes to play as a duo (or trio). They want to equip you with new skills, technique and repertoire, and build on what you already know, to give you a broader understanding of the subtle dynamics of small ensemble playing.

You’ll be looking at tune arrangement for a concert setting, song arrangement and accompaniment (and how to choose songs that work within your vocal and instrumental range), and tune arrangement and selection for playing for dance.

This is a brand new course, and over the three days and four evenings, you can expect guided learning in big and small groups, some self-led time in small groups, and optional one-to-one time if required.

One of the great things about our midweek courses is the extra time they allow for impromptu workshops and informal time together as a group. The tutors look forward to sharing some great sessions in the bar, and maybe a glass or two of wine, with you!

Who is it for?

This course is aimed at instrumentalists who already play in duos or trios and would like an extended course dedicated to improving their small ensemble skills. Don’t worry, though, if you don’t already have a duo partner or they can’t make it. We’ll be able to pair you up with someone in a similar position so that you can still get the most out of the course.

All intermediate and advanced instrumentalists and singer-instrumentalists are welcome, but there will be particular emphasis on fiddle and DG melodeon. If you’re a keen to take part as a singer, please get in touch with us to discuss what opportunity there may be for you to get involved.

You will need to be able to learn by ear but you won’t need to be able to sightread. James and Saul plan to send out sheet music to be learned in advance, so some degree of notation reading would be useful.

The Team

Fine musicians and longtime friends, James Delarre (Topette!!, Mawkin) & Saul Rose (Faustus, Eliza Carthy) are masters of their craft and well known for their outstanding musicianship and exquisitely delivered traditional tunes and songs. Their latest record, ‘Kith & Kin’, celebrates the pair’s enduring friendship and expanding families and was hailed as ‘good news for every folk music fan’ by Bright Young Folk. The duo intertwine seamlessly; dancing around the tunes between the notes, finding space and air, and breathing fresh energy into the music.

‘Sheer joy of music-making oozes through every track.’ (Living Tradition).