I thought I would just give you my take on the course; which may be a bit bias as I started it about five weeks ago. I am a mature student, so first of all it isn't all about kids; there are four of us oldies in this year's intake. I started because it is a wonderful way to learn about a subject dear to my heart, have music tuition from some fantastic musicians; a previous comment mentioned some of the full time lectures but on top of that there are guest lecturers all the time too many to mention. For me the highlights are lectures from really interesting people who have first hand experience of our living traditions.

I do not agree with the previous comment about stage presents or the 'rising stars' tag. I have found all my fellow students a group of people who are enthusiastic and enjoy making music and I have not seen any egos that need putting in place. (as yet). Remember the 'Rising stars' nights are something we all are strongly (and rightly) encouraged to take part in, as part of developing and gaining performance experience; what was seen that night may have had more to do with nerves than anything else. The previous comment said that the word was that the students had to be coerce into attending local folk cubs, Oh so not true, many of my fellow student go to the Bridge most weeks alas not me as I have a mandolin lesson on Tuesdays so stay in and practise but I have been to other sessions ( when work load permits, and it is hard work) ect and there is always a spattering there.

In conclusion is it a good course? For me, I have only been here for five weeks I am learning so much and met some interesting and great people. I think that a course like this is not only about the academic content but also about skilled practitioners passing on their skill and knowledge of our tradition to the next generation.

PS The villan. Don't wish, do

(I wish I could have done that when I was young. Lucky buggers)


Paul