Pathfinder Chamber Weekend

"RNCM Pathfinder offers the opportunity to practise performance, to encounter music through composition and to experiment through improvisation by offering workshops and creative sessions in these three areas and a wide range of genres"

RNCM Pathfinder has been one of my favourite programmes to work with, full of creative and experimental young musicians of all abilities. For the 2nd year I took the lead for the Jazz Ensemble for Pathfinders, chamber music weekend.

When I was first sent the instrument line-up, I will admit I had concerns- 2 pianos, drums, harp and viola, a very unconventional combo for a jazz group. But I sooned relished the excitement of arranging the parts at the possibilities.

The repertoire we covered was Fly Me To The Moon, Green Onions and Sway.

Fly Me To The Moon was a particular highlight, essentially a harp solo accompanied by the band with a viola counter melody. Our harpist relished he challenge of performing a complex scored out improvisation.

Green Onions meanwhile featured brilliant solos from both our keys players (one on a funky organ synth for the melody). And Sway gave a great opportuntiy for our drummer to show off their latin fills.

For only a day and half of rehearsal this was an extremely accomplished performance by these young musicians.