Mackay’s Memoirs Workshop with NYPBS

Sign up to the National Youth Pipe Band of Scotland’s free music workshop, being held on Sunday, June 18 at The National Piping Centre.

This workshop brings together young music-makers in Glasgow to look at Mackay’s Memoirs by Martyn Bennett. Martyn wrote this piece originally for young people to play, and it’s a masterclass in tasteful accessible music for a large ensemble.

Places are free but limited so sign up here now to claim yours!

There’s no need to know the piece already. We’ll be working in creative ways: adding our own parts, learning the rhythms and melodies and using our listening skills. We will have written music on the day but you can also take part learning by ear.

The event is welcoming all abilities, and is open to all instruments and vocalists! For young people aged 12-18, or up to 25 if you identify as having a disability. Places are free but limited so sign up now to claim yours!

For community organisations and schools taster sessions can be arranged via nypb@thepipingcentre.co.uk

The workshops will be lead by tutors from various genres and instrumental disciplines.

The project includes:

• Free access to specially created online learning resources, including videos and new accessible parts to the score!
• The chance to play along to guide tracks and submit your own recordings which will be woven together to form a unique film of the piece.
• Live workshop events where young people will be able to work on the piece with NYPBS players.

Level of Experience

The application for will ask you to state your level of musicianship using the guide below.

• Complete beginner: You haven’t played your instrument before or have just started.
• Level 1: You can play a few scales and some simple melodies/ exercises or basic rudiments.
• Level 2: You will have been playing for 6-12 months and have a basic understanding of technique plus a few tunes under your belt.
• Level 3: You will have been playing for 1–2 years and know a good number of tunes of varying styles.
• Level 4: You will have been playing for a minimum of 2 years and have a good grasp of your instrument.