An Open Day will be held at Canolfan Gerdd William Mathias (Music Centre), Galeri Caernarfon on Saturday 22 July between 10 -4pm. A range of events for young people will be held throughout the day; all free of charge, giving a taste of what is offered by the Centre.
This dynamic Centre was established in 1999 in Caernarfon providing opportunities in music education for people of all ages and abilities through lessons on instruments and voice by experienced tutors, theory lessons, ensembles, choirs and much more!
A highlight of the Open Day will be celebrating ‘Steps Music’s 10th birthday. Steps Music is a project that presents the fundamental elements of music in a fun and educational way for young children from 6 months to 7 years old. At 1pm there will be a class for children aged 4-7 years, and a class for children aged between 6 months and 4 years with their parents at 2pm. To follow, we will enjoy musical performances by former Steps in Music pupils and tutors at a party with games and cake.
The project was established by the William Mathias Music Centre and musician Marie-Claire; who is a postgraduate student at the University of Sheffield studying for an MA in Psychology in Music Education. The scheme has managed to bring an inspirational musical curriculum to communities in north Wales, reaching into nurseries, nursing homes and schools. Marie-Claire said:
“It is exciting to see how the way we have used music to empower individuals as a whole has had such a powerful and positive impact on so many people. As a music tutor I’m so proud to see former pupils of the project growing in the music community, and looking forward to hearing them perform on the day.”
Two workshops will be held during the day. A woodwind workshop at 10am with tutors Rhiannon Mathias, Marie-Claire and Elin Roberts, and voice Masterclass with tenor Huw Llywelyn at 2pm. Offering opportunities for young pupils to learn in groups is important to the Centre, providing opportunities for individuals to perform and work together with other musicians who share the same interest.
Free taster lessons are also offered during the day on the drums, guitar and piano with tutors Graham ‘La’ Land, Neil Browning and Diana Keyse. There will also be an opportunity to enjoy live music performances by pupils and tutors at the Galeri Café Bar. Weather permitting, the day will end with a performance by Hidden Talents and Arfon Wyn on the Dock at 3: 30pm.
The event is held with the support of Tŷ Cerdd. All activities are free of charge, and there is a warm welcome to everyone. To express your interest, or for further information please contact the William Mathias Music Centre on 01286 685 230.
