Whether you’re a first-time attendee or completely new to the world of banding, we’re thrilled to welcome you to the Wessex Band Summer School. A week of fantastic music-making, learning, and friendship awaits at Sturminster Newton in the heart of the beautiful Dorset countryside. Here’s a few top tips for you to make the most of your time with us…
Before the Course Starts
Engage with course members past and present on social media. Introduce yourself, ask any questions you like, don’t be shy! We’ve all been where you are and are more than happy to help ensure you have the best week possible.
Keep an eye out for your welcome pack! This will be hitting your inbox a few weeks before the start of the course and contains key information to make sure you’re all set for the course, including all the fun things going on the campsite this year, the list of course members and the music list.
If you’re around/on the campsite during #SetupSunday then this is a great way to meet some new friends, get familiar with the school layout and ask a few questions of our committee members before a note is even played! Simply monitor our social media channels in the run up to the course to see when/where to meet and then come along to help us set up for a very special week of music. Extra helpers are always incredibly appreciated.
Monday
Arrive in plenty of time on Monday morning, especially if you are travelling from further afield than the campsite! Drop off your instrument and set up your music stand in the rehearsal room for your chosen band for the week. These are well sign posted throughout the school but if you’re unsure there are always plenty of people around to ask. Our friendly music staff and committee members will all be wearing their Wessex lanyards so you can spot them a mile away! There is also the on-site canteen to visit for a very reasonably priced breakfast and/or snack to get you fuelled up for the day.
Introductions will take place at 8.45am in the main hall. Don’t be afraid to ask someone if you’re not sure where this is… or follow the crowd! This session is vitally important as you will be told everything you need to know for the week and be introduced to the most important people during Wessex, the music staff.
Camping
- There’s a great list available on our website here for what to bring during the days on the course. If you’re camping on the school field, there’s also a few more things to consider:
- Pack for a British summer! Even if the days are scorching hot it can get quite cool at night so be prepared.
- You won’t regret those few extra pegs to stop your tent blowing away if the weather gets particularly feisty… You don’t want to experience the feeling of watching your tent fly away!
- Get involved! There’s always plenty of activities going on for all ages.
The Concerts
Both of the concerts are held at The Exhange in Sturminster Newton, a short walk/drive from the school and field. Be there in plenty of time to help set up and, if you’re in the training band, for a concert run through.
Whether you’re playing in the Training Band concert or not, attendance is mandatory for all! Make sure you block this out in your calendar for the final Saturday, before the Brass and Wind Band concert later on. The Training Band concert is the highlight of the year for many of us so make sure you don’t miss out!
There is usually a fair amount of chaos in between the two concerts. Simply be patient and listen to the music staff during this time and it will all run smoothly.
And finally…
If in doubt, ask. We’re an incredibly friendly bunch we promise!
Be a sponge! (This will make more sense after the introduction from our Course Musical Director, Michael Fowles)
We’re all really looking forward to the course this year and hope you are too.