Rewire! Improvisation Workshop

A Classical Creative Workshop with Christchurch Symphony Orchestra first violinist, Cathy Irons.

Rewire! is an improvisation workshop for anyone who plays or is learning an orchestral instrument. It's heaps of fun and we play with Pachebel's Canon turning it into different styles from Waltz, to Reggae, to Hip Hop, among other musical activities.

Improvisation is fun, creative and a great way to get to know your instrument and other musicians just like you! Nothing too hard - everything will be clearly explained, you'll learn the skills you need and soon you'll be jamming along in our friendly supportive environment.

Improvisation provides a valuable link between theory, harmony, aural training and playing your instrument. You'll understand more about music, be motivated and freshly inspired.

Who can attend:
Open to all musicians who play orchestral instruments (except drums/percussion/piano)

Registration essential through this form: https://forms.gle/VcmuGzfitTzh9EYz6 especially if you play a transposing instrument!

All improvisation and playing abilities are welcome
Basic ability to read music notes on a stave is recommended, but not essential

Things to Bring:
Instrument, music stand, pencil, eraser, manuscript paper - and a sense of adventure!

Venue: Room 25 (next to hockey turf), 555 Gladstone Road, entry through Stanley Road gate.

Cathy Irons is a first violinist in the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra and also plays in her cross-over Classical Jazz Quartet, which annually tours South Island. Cathy is passionate about encouraging creativity in others, and through the CSO Community Engagement Programme has worked in primary and high schools, Corrections and with people with disabilities, receiving two national awards from Arts Access.

She annually stage manages at the Gisborne International Music Competition and together with the general manager Mark La Roche, has given music residencies at Wainui, Cobham and Matapuna. This year she will work at Tauauwhi, using music as a medium for expression, connection and creativity with men with domestic challenges. Cathy is currently a mentor for American jazz violinist, Christian Howes' online Creative Strings Academy.

What do others say?
"I just loved every minute of the course. You are such an engaging and enthusiastic and diplomatic presenter! As a beginner, and an old one at that, I was very hesitant to enrol, but you created such a welcoming and non-threatening environment that I was more than comfortable muddling through my mistake-ridden attempts. It was lots and lots of fun."
Adult, flautist
"I was very happy as this programme nurtured both beginners, intermediate players and the more advanced. Cathy was so supportive of all of us and helped us determined by our skill and knowledge of more modern and unknown to us. I liked how she was always open to answer questions on the topics and gave guidance on how to improve."
Teenager, violinist
"You are a fantastic teacher! Improv is just what my daughter needs to really enjoy making beautiful music, without any pressure. Perfect :)"
Mother of a 10 year old

A Classical Creatives Workshop. We're here to support you on your musical journey.
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