The Strings Seminar

For the second year running, the London Guildhall Summer School's course in jazz, rock and studio music included a five-day strings seminar, led by violist Tanya Kalmanovitch. All instruments - violin, viola and cello - were represented. Classes focused on scale studies, transcription and improvisation, and there was also a special session on South Indian rhythmic syllables and patterns, with material from lessons given by Dr Karraikudi Subramaniam. Among repertoire performed by the string ensemble were McCoy Tyner's "Passion Dance" and Henry Mancini's "A Shot In The Dark". The latter was played by the whole group, with piano, bass and drums, at the final concert, and got an enthusiastic reception from the large audience.

This year's strings seminar was even better attended than last year's, and it looks as though this highly enjoyable event is set to become an annual fixture.

Further information at http://www.guildhallsummerschool.com and http://www.tanyakalmanovitch.com