28th - 30th October 2011
Wind Band Weekend
Europa Gatwick Hotel, London
A weekend of music making aimed at all wind, brass and percussion players with an opportunity to rehearse and perform a variety of music culminating in an informal concert on the Sunday afternoon. wbfsecretary@virginmedia.com

The charismatic and ever affable Stephen Nagy leads his hand-picked team of coaches on the Kerry Camden Autumn Advanced Wind Course, for which we are seeking players of flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon and horn. Participants are welcome to bring their own choices of music but Stephen always ensures that a range of both mainstream and more unusual work is available. You should be an experienced and confident sight reader, and pre-formed groups who apply must be willing to do at least some mixing and matching with other players if asked. As we are looking for as ideally balanced a course as possible, we might not be able to confirm your place immediately upon booking and ask for your patience. Tel: 01462 459446 info@benslow.org www.benslow.org

Playing primarily as a clarinet choir drawing from Reynard Music's large and diverse library. A wide selection of clarinet quartet & quintet music will also be available for voluntary sessions.
Middle Aston offers de-luxe accommodation & cordon bleu food. Grade 4+ probably needed for enjoyment. Director: Michael Watkins. Tel: 01604-845-885  http://reynard.dpwww.co.uk/

6th November 2011
The 2011 BIG Double Reed Day.
Guildhall School of Music & Drama, London, UK
Detailed plans are still being drawn up but it will run along similar lines to last year with a schedule covering masterclasses, reed clinics, try the cor anglais/contra bassoon/baroque oboe/baroque bassoon, recitals and massed ensembles. There will also be trade stands for the major retailers supplying accessories, music and an opportunity to try a wide range of instruments. Specialist repairers will be present. There will be a separate section for beginners and the youngest players which will be planned and delivered by specialist teachers. http://www.bigdoublereed.com/ news_events.php

13th November 2011
RNCM Saxophone Day
Royal Northern College of Music, Oxford Road, Manchester
John Harle, Sam Andrae, Julian Arguelles, Andy Scott plus many more in this annual saxophonic jamboree of recitals, workshops masterclasses etc. http://www.rncm.ac.uk/