Piano players of all abilities are being invited to a free masterclass, hosted by world-class pianists and Birmingham Conservatoire, in Dudley next month.
The Piano Masterclass Day is being held on Saturday October 7 at Netherton Arts Centre.
It is part of the annual Dudley International Piano Competition.
The masterclass will be hosted by world-class pianists Gordon Fergus-Thompson, John Humphreys and Daniel Browell, along with advanced students and teachers from Birmingham Conservatoire.
Each participant will have a short lesson at which they will be able to play some music they are learning. Everyone will get a minimum of 10 minutes, with advanced players getting more time. Students will be grouped together based on standard, with each session split into three rooms.
The first session takes place from 11am to 12.30pm, with the second session running from 1.15pm to 2.45pm. In between, from 12.30pm to 1pm, there will be performances from the tutors.
The Dudley International Piano Competition has been one of the UK’s leading piano competitions for around half a century.
The preliminary and semi-final rounds take place at Dudley College on October 21 and October 22 respectively, and are free to attend for spectators.
The final will take place at Symphony Hall in Birmingham in November.
Councillor Ian Kettle, cabinet member for culture, said:
“This is an excellent opportunity to get advice from some amazing pianists, and there will be an informal performance from the tutors and students of the Conservatoire between sessions.
“The preliminary round and semi-final of the competition itself at Dudley College are free to attend.
“We would urge people to do so, and take advantage of a fantastic opportunity to hear world-class performers playing on their doorstep.”
To register for the master classes, email dpa.cs@dudley.gov.uk with your name, the session you wish to take part in and your approximate level, for instance working towards grade 2, or preparing for A level recital.
