Volume 23, June 2011 - New England Conservatorium of Music

MASTERCLASS
Masterclass with Alice Rickards
On Monday afternoon, the 2nd May, Eliza Scott,
Jess Wright, Emma Scott and myself attended a
violin masterclass with Alice Rickards. Alice currently
works in Edinburgh, Scotland playing the violin
with the BBC Scottish Orchestra. We were joined by
Wendy Huddleston, providing piano collaboration.
Alice asked that everyone play a piece that they had
been working on. She then offered her ideas for
improvement and technique development. Alice
paid special attention to showing Emma and I some
techniques for tall people, making it easier and more
comfortable to play – this type of advice is always
helpful. It was a very rewarding experience from
which everyone gained greater understanding of
their piece and general playing.
We thank Alice very much for coming and sharing
her exceptional musical understanding and helping
young students rise to the best of their potential.
Special thanks also go to Wendy, who joined us despite
her very busy schedule of Eisteddfod preparation
and practice for another major performance.
Lucy Isaac Alice working with Lucy
A weekend with Peter Rejto May 2011
Peter assisting Ali van Duijhoven with her fingering, accompanied by Sue Metcalfe
8 NECOM NEWS JUNE 2011
few weeks prior to the ei-
A steddfod we were treated
to a fantastic weekend of
cello lessons and a masterclass
from Sydney cellist Peter
Rejto.
Peter, with his vast teaching
experience, has a very effective
way of communicating
how to get around the cello.
His performing career has
also been extensive, so with
his own well thought-out
and consolidated technique,
he was able to talk through
and demonstrate what was
required.
He worked with a number of
different students of all ages,
and it was wonderful to see
him tenaciously bringing out
the best in the music, and in
the students.