News & Events

News and Events

London Mandolin Ensemble monthly Mandolin & Guitar Workshops, Covent Garden, London WC2, from 21st September 2024

Our monthly mandolin and guitar workshops continue in Autumn 2024 from 21st September, 11.00-1.00 on Saturday mornings at Crown Court Church of Scotland in Covent Garden, London. A new monthly beginner workshop series is also planned. For further information, and to register, email: [email protected]

The Mandolin in London, CD by Artemandoline, released May 2024

The Mandolin in London is a new CD by Baroque ensemble Artmandoline, released in May 2024 on the Deutsche Harmonia Mundi label. It contains 13 original compositions by Weber, Valentine, Merchi and other notable 16th & 17th century composers, with programme notes by Paul Sparks. The CD can be ordered from Amazon as well as other retailers: www.amazon.co.uk/Mandolin-London-Artemandoline/dp/B0CXG22XFP/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1QYM4D2LXOZ6I&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.xAO88xnGxHAzl8UuXPFcWmRAa5rjHCsXDlH65jVKS26eTwQ49HQKYl1sDXR-gA92v5SzKWx-rXTBB8IdS6_XVGn_dJ-LnioAn4Wf_amZVS6dS9iLJJQd-KuYvPxVW9PSMA45ITqf9uC8V9jYdWQ2zihs66mrs9-3MU0trzQ0uLv9yQu6c6PH8ZoaWKc-2cmURzCISKyYCmPr0uXGI6_db-tYj0PK8EYMsPUAi-kmkcI.bQCURsYZnwA8gxyi4Iufj6jp9C-atkK7ngaTFd-CMEw&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+mandolin+in+london&qid=1715430265&sprefix=%2Caps%2C96&sr=8-1

Accademia Mandolino e Chitarra, Castel Gandolfo, Italy, 11th-18th August 2024

Registration for the International Mandolin & Guitar Academy opens on 1st March 2024. The Academy will be held again in Castel Gandolfo, near Rome, from 11th - 18th August. Courses and workshops focus on learning and mastering plectrum instruments and classical guitar. The Academy welcomes participants of all musical levels to engage with and experience ensemble music.
www.accademiamandolino.com/

Alon Sariel Mandolin Course, Forum Articum, Georgsmarienhütte, Germany, 19th-23rd August 2024

Mandolinist Alon Sariel will offer another masterclass at the Forum Artium campus in Georgsmarienhüte, Germany, on the border with Germany and the Netherlands, from 29th-23rd August. The course will be held in a concentrated working atmosphere, preparing new repertoire and engaging in chamber sessions. There will also be individual lessons in technique and interpretation. For more information about this course, fees and registration:
www.forum-artium.de/en/alon-sariel-lecturer/

Chris Thile's Acousticamp 2024, Pacific Grove, California, USA 22nd-26th August 2024

Acousticamp 2024 is a 4-day event for players and music lovers of all ages, levels, interests, and tastes. Whether you are a master player, a beginner, or just an enthusiastic fan, this four-day camp offers activities and workshops for you. You will have the experience of working closely with a special group of artists, referred to as our Faculty, handpicked by mandolinist Chris Thile. The environment is non-competitive and isstrictly about immersing oneself in the joys of music and the lovely surroundings! Details via the link: christhileacousticamp.com/

Avi Avital & Hamilton de Holanda, Cadogan Hall, London, 16th September 2024

Avi Avital and Hamilton de Holanda, two of the most world-renowned mandolinists, play together for the first time in a charity concert to benefit children and adolescents with cancer.
Joined by the Brazilian string ensemble São Paulo Chamber Soloists and percussionist Amoy Ribas, they present a programme with Baroque mandolin concertos by Bach and Vivaldi alongside special new arrangements of Brazilian works by composers such as Radamés Gnatalli and Ary Barroso.
Multiple Latin Grammy-winner Hamilton de Holanda’s rhythm and improvisation meets virtuoso and exclusive Deutsche Grammophon artist Avi Avital in this unique concert.
Tickets available here: cadoganhall.com/whats-on/avi-avital-and-hamilton-de-holanda-music-for-the-cure/?utm_campaign=14593001_Orchestral%20-%20autumn&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Cadogan%20Hall&dm_i=1OE8,8OS15,F3A212,102I0J,1

Simon Mayor - Mandolins at Settle 2024, Settle, Yorkshire 29th September - 3rd October 2024

Simon Mayor's Mandolins at Settle is being held at the the Falcon Manor Hotel, Settle, Yorkshire from 29th September to 3rd October.
From Simon: This year I’ll be using a combination of favourite pieces from recent years alongside new material, some easy, some challenging, in a broad mix of musical styles. Ensemble playing remains at the heart of these gatherings and we’ll be aiming to polish the sound of our mandolin group as much as possible over the four days.
Music (in both standard notation and tablature) and guide sound files will be sent out well in advance. The main sessions are in the mornings. The afternoons are less structured but there’ll be things to do: I’ll be inviting guest speakers and tutors (watch this space for details), and you’ll have time for some informal playing.
For booking and info: mandolin.co.uk/booking-form-mandolins-at-settle-2024/

PAST EVENTS

Unconventional Bach - Workshops and masterclass with Alon Sariel, British Columbia University, Canada, 1st - 3rd August 2024

EMV Artist-in-Residence Alon Sariel invites bowed and plucked string players to explore Bach’s music between the bow and the plectrum. In the tranquil atmosphere of the University of British Columbia campus, Sariel will lead the workshop’s orchestra, coach chamber ensembles and hold public masterclasses. A wide range of topics will be discussed, from better understanding of harmony to creating performance possibilities. The orchestral/chamber sessions will concentrate on early music (works by Bach, Marcello, Vivaldi, Geminiani and their contemporaries), the repertoire for the private coaching is up to the student.

Sheet music for the orchestral/chamber sessions will be sent two weeks after the subscription deadline. Participants will have the opportunity to receive coaching on their piece(s) of choice, preferably Bach’s solo music.

This course is intended for musicians of intermediate/advanced level, amateurs and professionals, interested in historical performance practice. Registration closes on 15th May 2024. For further details:
www.earlymusic.bc.ca/unconventional-bach-course/?fbclid=IwAR2aUVSpiifSb6JR2dp6SBWB-j4f1pnN0JpC75TWgNWJcPaddxCLuQRT3mc_aem_AR5lmDb1bmhDrd3UHzJ0Cnx39BdvNpXcWBfgjxciAnEzgvg9_svi5vZwndpOpIKnniV35I21pxfdOnlz41KKQnM3

8th Mutinae Plectri Summer Music Campus, Bienno, Italy 2nd-6th July 2024

Mutinae Plectri is organizing the 8th summer Music Campus 2024. The Campus will be held, as last year, in the wonderful setting of the Hermitage of Saints Peter and Paul in BIENNO (BS), from Tuesday 2nd to Saturday 6th July 2024. Tutors are Miki Nishiyama (mandolin), Roberto Melangola (guitar) and Davide Pancetti (theory and joint activities).The registration deadline is set for 15th April, and more details can be obtained from: [email protected]

The American Mandolin & Guitar Summer School 2024, Bristol, Rhode Island, USA, 17th-22nd June 2024

AMGuSS (The American Mandolin & Guitar Summer School was founded in 1986 to promote the art of ensemble playing for the guitar and mandolin family instruments. This year the Summer School take place from 17th-22nd June in Rhode Island, USA. Each session combines classical study with a dollop of Brazilian Choro music, in workshops, small chamber ensembles and an all-school plucked-string orchestra. AMGuSS is dedicated to improving musicianship and broadening the musical horizons of its students. Founded by Marilyn Mair, this years guest artist is Evan Marshall.
For more information: www.marilynnmair.com/about/workshops/amguss/

Mandolin World Retreat with Mike Marshall & Caterina Lichtenberg, Umbria, Italy, 3rd - 7th June 2024

The Mandolin World Retreat will be held at a working farm resort (agritourismo) near Monte Cucco, Umbria, Italy from 3rd - 7th June 2024. Instructors are Mike Marshall and Caterina Lichtenberg, with special guest guitarist Peppe D'Agostino. The retreat will include bluegrass, classical, swing, jazz and Brazilian styles, along with workshops, open mic/jam sessions and faculty performances. Registration is now open, and further details of the event, along with booking, can be found here: www.musicworldretreats.com/mandolin-world-umbria-2024

Mandolin & Guitar workshop with Raffaele La Ragione, Crown Court Church, Covent Garden, London, Sunday 26th May 2024

Italian mandolin virtuoso Raffaele La Ragione is visiting London for a concert with La Serenissima on Thursday 23rd May at St Martins-in-the-Fields, Trafalgar Square, London.
www.stmartin-in-the-fields.org/calendar/la-serenissima-raffaele-la-ragione-vivaldi-mandolin-concerto/
We took the opportunity of this visit to arrange a mandolin and guitar workshop with him on Sunday 26th May from 3.00-5.00pm at LME's rehearsal venue, Crown Court Church in Covent Garden, WC2B 5EZ. The workshop will be dedicated to Italian chamber and orchestral music, and is open to mandolinists and guitarists - we look forward to seeing you there! Information and details about the workshop, along with registration, can be obtained by emailing:
[email protected]

La Serenissima & Raffaele La Ragione, St Martin-in-the-Fields, London, 23rd May 2024

Virtuoso mandolinist Raffaele La Ragione joins La Serenissima for an evening of Vivaldi Concertos, featuring Vivaldi's famous Mandolin Concerto. Raffaele is an outstanding performer, with a keen interest in original repertoire for the mandolin. The concert will be held on Thursday 23rd May, 7.30-9.30pm at St Martins-in-the-Fields, Trafalgar Square, London. It promises to be an evening of Baroque Venice! Tickets and info here:
www.stmartin-in-the-fields.org/calendar/la-serenissima-raffaele-la-ragione-vivaldi-mandolin-concerto/

The Venice Mandolin Festival, Venice, Italy, 1st - 4th May 2024

The Venice Mandolin Festival, organised by Lars Forslund and the Mandolin Academy, takes place in Venice 1st - 4th May, with concerts in the heart of Venice and in Lido. The Festival Orchestra will give a concert of Vivaldi's music, and other concerts will be performed by guest orchestras, individual participants and small ensembles. The Festival closes with an Opera and Gala concert, followed by a Carnival Party.
For details: mandolin.academy/

The 12th Edition of Protagonista il Mandolino Concert Series, Modena, Italy, 21st October 2023 - 18th May 2024

The 12th Edition of 'Protagonists of the Mandolin' Concert series takes place in Modena, Italy from 21st October 2023 to 18th May 2024. The series will include concerts from mandolinists Mauro Squillante, Roi Dayan, Marine Moletto, Salvatore Maria Sclafani, and Rebecca Della Ragione, as well as masterclasses, conferences and exhibitions of paintings and musical instruments. The series is run by the Ensemble Mandolinistico Estense, and details can be found via this link: mandolinoestense.it/rassegna-musicale/protagonista-il-mandolino-xii-edizione/

London Mandolin Quintet at The Paxton Centre, Crystal Palace, London, Sunday 7th April 2024

As part of The Paxton Centre's ongoing Eclectics music series, London Mandolin Quintet returns to the Paxton Centre in Crystal Palace on Sunday 7th April 4.00-6.00pm with a programme of Baroque and contemporary music, including music by Vivaldi, Cecere, Jobim, Piazzolla, Ricardo Sandoval and Stephen Lalor. Admission is free, with a retiring collection. Tickets bookable via Eventbrite:
www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/eclectics-london-mandolin-quartet-tickets-768900731787

The BMG Festival, Churchill College, Cambridge, UK, 5th - 7th April 2024

The biennial BMG Festival, run by the British BMG Federation, takes place from 5th - 7th April 2024 at Churchill College, Cambridge. The weekend covers workshops, masterclasses, rehearsals and contests, as well as concerts by Raffaele la Ragione and Andrea di Vitis, and the Israeli Plectrum Orchestra.
Booking information and the weekend syllabus are available here: bbmg.org.uk/bmg-festival-2024/

Mandolin World Retreats with Mike Marshall & Caterina Lichtenberg, Benicia, California, USA, 8th-10th March 2024

Registration is now open for the three day Mandolin World Retreat 2024 with Mike Marshall and Caterina Lichtenberg. It is being held in Benicia, California, USA from 8th-10th March 2024, and includes the opportunity to touch on all styles of mandolin music, from bluegrass, swing, jazz, Brazilian Choro to classical mandolin, as well as learning chord theory. An intensive course, the Retreat will end with a final concert by the student ensemble and Mike and Caterina. Special guests are David Benedict and Tabitha Agnew Benedict. Details via the link:
www.musicworldretreats.com/mandolin-world-2024-1?fbclid=IwAR3pHG0lSJzFR1kflGPrL7hI_nsjJJ1byQYXo5fYdesCABoElZhI2LZq3uA

Music in the Museum: Duo Napolitano, Wardown House, Luton, Beds, 3rd March 2024

Nigel Woodhouse and Forbes Henderson - Duo Napolitano - will perform at Wardown House Museum and Gallery, Old Bedford Road, Luton LU2 7HA on 3rd March from 2.00-4.00pm. The duo will present a programme of music from the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries, including works by Vivaldi, Handel, Scarlatti, Scheidler, Villa-Lobos and the Italian mandolin virtuoso Raffaele Calace. Further information and tickets are available here:
www.culturetrust.com/whats-on/music-museum-duo-napolitano

London Mandolin Quintet at St Margaret's Putney, London, 18th February 2024

As part of St Margaret's concert series, London Mandolin Quintet will give a concert at St Margaret's Putney, Putney Park Lane, London SW15 5HU on Sunday 18th February at 4.00 pm. The programme will feature a mix of baroque and contemporary music by Vivaldi, Handel, Piazzolla, Raffaele Calace, Ricardo Sandoval, Leroy Anderson. Entry is free, with a retiring collection.

Béla Fleck and band in concert 'My Bluegrass Heart', Cadogan Hall, London, 4th February 2024

Béla Fleck's The Grammy award-winning album, My Bluegrass Heart is the third chapter of a trilogy which began with the 1988 album, Drive, and continued in 1991 with The Bluegrass Sessions.
Fleck’s band will spotlight a multi-generational gamut of the best of bluegrass players, all sporting a myriad of Grammy Awards and nominations, as well as gigantic piles of IBMA awards for their instruments: fiddler Michael Cleveland, mandolin virtuoso Sierra Hull, celebrated multi-instrumentalist Justin Moses, bassist/multi-instrumentalist Mark Schatz, and the amazing Bryan Sutton on guitar.
For tickets: cadoganhall.com/whats-on/bela-fleck-and-the-flecktones-2024/

International Italian Mandolin and Guitar Accademia, 7th Winter Edition, Verona, Italy, 2nd - 7th January 2024

The 7th Winter Edition of the International Italian Mandolin and Guitar Accademia, directed by Carlo Aonzo, takes place in Verona, Italy from 2nd-7th January 2024. The course suits players of any level: amateur musicians, conservatory students, professionals, teachers, soloists and concert performers willing to expand and improve their own repertoire, as well as absolute beginners willing to approach the instrument for the first time. Players of mandolin, mandola, mandocello and guitar are all welcome. The course is led by Carlo Aonzo, Michele De Martino (mandolin) and Roberto Margaritella, Balen Lopez de Munain (guitar).
Information and reservations: www.accademiamandolino.com/info-verona

Avi Avital mandolin and Il Giardino Armonico at Wigmore Hall London, 23rd December 2023

Israeli mandolin virtuoso Avi Avital and Il Giardino Armonico, conducted by Giovanni Antonini, will be in concert at Wigmore Hall on Saturday 23rd December. The concert starts at 7.30 pm, and promises to be a musical feast! The programme includes music by Handel, Bach, Vivaldi and C.P.E. Bach.
Information and tickets vis this link: www.wigmore-hall.org.uk/whats-on/202312231930

The 8th International Madeira Mandolin Festival, Funchal, Madeira, 17th - 19th November 2023

The 8th edition of the Madeira International Mandolin Festival, under the artistic direction of the Madeira Mandolin Association, takes place in Funchal, Madeira from 17th - 19th November. The Baltazar Dias Municipal Theater presents a set of concerts by internationally recognised artists such as Duo Pace Poli Cappelli (Italy) and Avi Avital and Ohad Ben-Ari (Israel), featuring a unique offering in this musical genre, and includes masterclasses (November,18th), in addition to the 38th Regional Meeting of Tunas and Orchestras, with the participation of regional mandolin groups, on November 19th.
For information: eventsmadeira.com/en/event/international-mandolin-festival/

CANCELLEDLondon Mandolin Quintet Chamber Concert, Crown Court, Covent Garden, London WC2B 5EZ, 20th November 2023

***CANCELLED*** DUE TO MAJOR SOUND ISSUES AT THE VENUE, AND WILL BE REBOOKED IN THE NEW YEAR. London Mandolin Quintet invites you to a chamber concert of contemporary music at Crown Court Church of Scotland Hall, Covent Garden, London. The concert features music and arrangements by composers for the classical mandolin, performed by Anna Lombardi & Maxine Wiltshire /mandolin, Tom Smith & Ryan Chan /guitar and Dean Minot /contrabass.
The concert starts at 8.00 pm, and is an hour long, with no interval. Admission is free, with a retiring collection.
For further information e-mail [email protected]

London Mandolin Quintet in concert at The Paxton Centre, Crystal Palace, London SE19 2AE, 22nd October 2023

London Mandolin Quartet returns for a second Sunday afternoon concert on 22nd October at the Paxton Centre, 52 Anerley Hill, London SE19 2AE. The quartet is joined by double bassist Dean Minot. The concert starts at 3.00pm, with a programme of mainly contemporary music, and is part of the Paxton Centre's 'Eclectics' music series.
Anna Lombardi (mandolin), Ryan Chan (guitar), Tom Smith (guitar) and Maxine Wiltshire (mandolin) are all classically trained musicians who have studied at conservatoire level, and have performed individually and as a quartet in the UK, USA, Germany, Spain, Japan, Hong Kong, Czech Republic, Belgium, France, Sweden, Hungary, Slovakia, Luxembourg and Italy.
Further details: www.thepaxtoncentre.co.uk/whats-on/2023/10/22/eclectics-london-mandolin-quartet

Simon Mayor's Mandolin Retreat, Settle, Yorkshire, 24th-28th September 2023

The annual, four-day Mandolin Retreat with Simon Mayor will take place 24-28 September 2023 at the much loved Falcon Manor Hotel, Settle, N Yorks. This year Simon will be using a ‘best of’ repertoire of pieces from recent years – regulars will have the chance to polish old favourites. Ensemble playing remains at the heart of these gatherings and the aim is to polish the sound of the mandolin group as much as possible over the four days.
Music (in both standard notation and tablature) and guide sound files will be sent out well in advance. The main sessions are in the mornings. The afternoons are less structured but there will be things to do: guest speakers and tutors, and time for some informal playing.
Further details via the link:mandolin.co.uk/booking-form-settle-2023/

Mike Marshall & Caterina Lichtenberg Mandolin World Retreat, Ortigia, Sicily, 4th - 8th September 2023. SOLD OUT

Master mandolin instructors, Mike Marshall and Caterina Lichtenberg, will once again be taking their “Mandolin World Retreat” to Ortigia, Sicily, Italy from 4th - 8th September. Mike and Caterina have an amazing ability to target specific areas where students are struggling and provide step-by-step guidance to help them overcome their musical challenges. They will touch on all styles of mandolin playing from Bluegrass, Swing, Jazz and Brazilian Choro, improvisation and chord theory to the entire history of Classical mandolin techniques spanning 300 years. Mandolin World Retreat will offer a small number of students the opportunity to work hands-on with Mike and Caterina in person, and do so in gorgeous Siracusa, Sicily.
For further information and registration:www.musicworldretreats.com/mandolin-world-sicily-2023

Nickel Creek in concert at The Barbican, Silk Street, London EC2Y 8DS, 1st September 2023

Nickel Creek is mandolinist Chris Thile, violinist Sara Watkins and guitarist Sean Watkins. Together a sum of more than their staggering parts, the trio revolutionized bluegrass and folk in the early 2000s and ushered in a new era of what we now recognize as Americana music.

Nickel Creek's performance celebrates the release of their latest album Celebrants—a bounty of 18 disparate but loosely connected songs written collectively during a creative retreat in Santa Barbara in early 2021.
Tickets here: www.barbican.org.uk/whats-on/2023/event/nickel-creek-support

Jacob Collier, Madison Cunningham, Chris Thile at Union Chapel London, 31st August 2023

An evening With Jacob Collier, Madison Cunningham and Chris Thile on Thursday 31st August, at Union Chapel, Islington, London, at 9.00pm. Tickets are on sale from 28th July:
www.livenation.co.uk/show/1432094/an-evening-with-jacob-collier-madison-cunningham-and-chris-thile/london/2023-08-31/en

Nickel Creek at the Towersey Festival, near Buckingham, Bucks, 27th August 2023

Nickel Creek - mandolinist Chris Thile, violinist Sara Watkins and guitarist Sean Watkins - play the Towersey Festival in Buckingham on 27th August, as part of a UK promotional tour of their new album Celebrants.
Festival Tickets available via the link: www.towerseyfestival.com/

17th Edition of the International Mandolin & Guitar Accademia, Castel Gandolfo, Italy, 13th - 20th August 2023

Registration is now open for the International Mandolin & Guitar Accademia, which takes place 13th-23rd August 2023 at Castel Gandolfo, near Rome, Italy. The week-long, residential course is open to all levels of mandolin, mandola and guitar players and incorporates workshops, orchestral rehearsals and concerts. Tutors are Carlo Aonzo, Michele de Martino, Fabio Galluci (mandolin & mandola), Roberto Margaritella, Ricardo del Prete (guitar).
Further details here: www.accademiamandolino.com/info-xvii-accademia

The London Bluegrass Band, Green Note, Camden Town, London, 12th August 2023

From the small but thriving bluegrass scene in London, the London Bluegrass Band emerged in 2021 from its roots in sessions and jams across the city. The collective, dedicated to showcasing and fostering the bluegrass scene in the capital, is made from a diverse, international group of musicians who love bluegrass old and new, and love sharing it! The line-up consists of:- IBMA Momentum Vocalist 2021 nominee Leanne Thorose on vocals and mandolin - Singer, player and luthier extraordinaire, Cedric Thorose on Dobro and vocals - 'Papa' Tommy Amenta from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on guitar and vocals - London Bluegrass Band director and British Bluegrass News editor Chris Lord on banjo - prolific performing artist Pete 'Hutch' Thomas holding it down on double bass. Tickets £12.00, available via the link:
allevents.in/london/the-london-bluegrass-band/200024644154102

Chris Thile's Acousticamp, Glen Cove, NY, USA 30th July - 3rd August 2023

Mandolin virtuoso Chris Thile and a team of instructor/collaborators will lead an acoustic camp at The Mansion, Glen Cove, NY, USA from 30th July - 3rd August. They will explore acoustic music practice, performance and composition, and the camp will be bookended by concerts from Nickel Creek and Punch Brothers.
For booking details, visit the website: christhileacousticamp.com

Urbino Musica Antica with Mauro Squillante, Urbino, Italy, 24th - 28th July 2023

Organised by FIMA, the Italian Foundation for Early Music, Urbino Musica Antica is an international early music festival.
The city immerses itself in a magical atmosphere where music is the absolute protagonist: master classes and many concerts will be at the centre of an intense week that will attract hundreds of musicians and enthusiasts to attend singing lessons, medieval, Renaissance and Baroque music and to follow the scheduled shows.
Courses on the early mandolin will be led by Mauro Squillante, and is open to mandolinists who wish to deepen the historically informed practice applied to the Neapolitan mandolin, the four-, five- and six-course Baroque mandolin and other plectrum instruments of the period between the end of the 17th century and the early years of the 19th.
Registration for the course is via the link: www.urbinomusicaantica.com/about-5-20

Marilynn Mair's Mandolin Week at Summer Keys, Lubec, Maine, USA , 10th - 14th July 2023

From July 10-14, 2023 Marilynn Mair returns to Lubec, Maine, USA for her annual mandolin week at SummerKeys. If the intensity of group music camps isn’t your thing, SummerKeys presents a calmer option. You’ll have a daily hour-long private lesson with Marilynn, plus a daily class with the other mandolin students on ensemble musicianship. You’ll also have a private practice space, plus concerts, lectures, and time to explore nature, all in the bucolic seaside town of Lubec, Maine. Enrolment is limited to 6 students. More information, and a sign-up page are available here: https://summerkeys.com/

Mandol'in Marseille Festival 2023, Marseille, France, 7th - 11th July 2023

The 3rd edition of the Mandol'In Marseille Festival takes place at the Marseille Conservatoire from 7th - 11th July. Initiated and organised by mandolinist Vincent Beer-Demander, a 3 day workshop will be led by Hamilton de Holanda and Ricardo Sandoval, and is open to all mandolin and guitar players. There will be a final concert at the end of the workshop on July 10th at the Mandol'in Marseille Festival.
An International Mandolin Competition will also be held on July 10 and 11 with Hamilton de Holanda as president of the jury, accompanied by Ricardo Sandoval, Claudio Mandonico and Vincent Beer-Demander.
For further information e-mail: Maud Négrel at: [email protected]

Mutinae Plectri 7th Musical Campus for Mandolin & Guitar, Benno, Brescia, Italy, 5th - 9th July 2023

The 7th Musical Campus, organised by Mutinae Plectri, will take place 5th - 9th July in Benno, Brescia, Italy. Tutors Miki Nishiyama (mandolin) Roberto Melangola (guitar) and Davide Pancetti (theory, joint activities) will lead attendees through a programme covering individual classes, ensemble and orchestral rehearsals and other events. For further information, contact Cecilia Vaccari at [email protected]

Carlo Aonzo Mandolin Workshop, Milwaukee, USA, 15th - 18th June 2023

Registration is now open for the Carlo Aonzo Mandolin workshop, taking place on 15th-18th June in Milwaukee, USA. The workshop includes four days of mandolin orchestra rehearsal with six hours of instruction each day. The workshop is geared to intermediate and stronger players, and is limited to a maximum 42 attendees. At the end of the workshop there will be an informal concert, open to the public. Further details and registration via the link: www.carloaonzomandolinschool.com/the-workshop

London Mandolin Quartet at The Paxton Centre, Crystal Palace, London SE19 2AE, 21st May 2023

London Mandolin Quartet will give an afternoon concert on Sunday 21st May 3.00-5.00pm, at The Paxton Centre, 52 Anerley Hill, London SE19 2AE, in the first of a new music series 'Eclectics' hosted by The Paxton Centre.
The programme consists of a selection of Baroque and contemporary works, reminiscing on the Golden Era of the mandolin in the UK, when 150 performers, conducted by B.M. Jenkins, performed at Crystal Palace in 1899. Admission is free, with optional donation. Info and tickets via the link: www.thepaxtoncentre.co.uk/whats-on/2023/5/21/eclectics-london-mandolin-quartet

Giovanni Battista Maldura and the Invention of the Roman Mandolin - book by Lorenzo Lippi & Donatella Melini

Renowned luthier Lorenzo Lippi and researcher Donatella Melini have written a book on the life and work of Giovanni Battista Maldura (1859–1905), a renowned musician and tireless entertainer of Rome’s musical life in the second half of the 19th century. He was also an undisputed innovator of a new concept of mandolin making, an instrument of which he was recognised as a great virtuoso.
The need to restore the legitimate role of the figure of Maldura arises at a time when the mandolin is regaining, after a few decades of oblivion, its rightful place in the musical and cultural history of Italy, finally freeing itself from the stigma of the second half of the 20th century that bound it predominantly, if not sometimes exclusively, to a mostly popular soundscape. This book – written in two voices – brings together Maldura’s two souls: that of a brilliant teacher and musician, and that of a luthier, two souls that were never too far apart.
An English version of the book can be purchased at Amazon here: www.amazon.co.uk/Giovanni-Battista-Maldura-invention-mandolin/dp/8831444212/ref=sr_1_4?crid=1DVD4WZYPIZ6B&keywords=Maldura&qid=1671362742&sprefix=madura%2Caps%2C104&sr=8-4

The Venice Mandolin Festival, Venice, Italy, 3rd - 6th May 2023

The Venice Mandolin Festival arranges an entire concert festival and invites mandolin orchestras from all over the world to exchange concerts and cultural exchanges between different countries. Music lovers and amateur players of mandolin, mandola and guitar of all levels, mandolin & guitar orchestras, professional soloists and conductors are invited to enjoy great music and art in Venice in the spring of 2023. The Festival begins on May 3rd, and ends with a Gala Concert on 6th May.
Further information here: mandolin.academy/

Avi Avital & Ksenija Sidorova, Wigmore Hall London, 26th March 2023

Mandolinist Avi Avital and accordionist Ksenjia Sidorova are in concert at Wigmore Hall London at 7.30pm on 26th March 2023. Their programme includes music from Bartók, Falla, Fauré and more. Priority booking opens on 19th October, with general booking from 1st November 2022.
Details via the link: wigmore-hall.org.uk/whats-on/avi-avital-ksenija-sidorova-202303261930

Concert series 11th Edition of Protagonista di Mandolino, Modena, Italy, 19th November 2022 - 29th April 2023

The 11th edition of the Protagonista di Mandolino, hosted by Ensemble Mandolinistico Estense takes place in Modena, Italy from 19th November 2022 - 29th April 2023. The concert series includes music from world class mandolin and guitar players, including Leonardo Lospalluti, Carlo Aonzo and Sebastiaan de Grebber. www.mandolinoestense.it/index.html

Mike Marshall & Caterina Lichtenberg Mandolin World Retreat, Benici, California, USA, 3rd - 5th March 2023

Listen to, learn from and play with two of the most versatile mandolinists of our time - Mike Marshall and Caterina Lichtenberg. Not only will you get a chance to learn from these mandolin masters, but there will be plenty of time for actual playing with other students, as part of an ensemble, and even with Mike and Caterina on stage for the final concert. The week-end will be a relaxed, intimate gathering with others who love the mandolin and who come together to meet new musical friends, enjoy good food and wine, make music.
More info and registration here: www.musicworldretreats.com/mandolin-world-2023-mike-marshall

Simon Mayor's Mandolin Weekend, Halsway Manor, Somerset, 20th - 22nd January 2023

The overwhelming success of Simon’s ‘Halsway Manor Mandolin Workshop Weekend’ over the last three years prompted immediate requests for this return visit.
Simon will cover all right & left hand techniques including position shifting, tremolo, decoration, tone production & more. There will also be the opportunity to accompany songs with singers from Hilary James’ Voice Workshop which runs alongside this event.
Information and booking via the link: halswaymanor.org.uk/event/simon-mayors-mandolin-weekend-4/

International Italian Mandolin & Guitar Accademia, Santeramo, Puglia Italy, 2nd - 7th January 2023

The 6th Winter Edition of the International Italian Mandolin & Guitar Accademia takes place in Santeramo, Puglia from 2nd - 7th January. The course suits players of any level: amateur musicians, conservatory students, professionals, teachers, soloists and concert performers willing to expand and improve their own repertoire, as well as absolute beginners willing to approach the instrument for the first time. It will include ensemble and orchestral work, workshops and concerts for the plucked string instrument family.
Tutors are Carlo Aonzo, Salvatore Della Vecchia, Michele de Martino (mandolin) and Roberto Margaritella, Vito Nicola Paradiso (guitar).
Further info is available via the link: www.accademiamandolino.com/info-puglia

Sierra Hull, UK tour dates 1st - 6th December 2022

American mandolin player Sierra Hull will tour the north of England in December 2022. Dates are: 1st December - The Live Room at Caroline Street Social, Shipley, Yorkshire, 3rd December - Biddulph Town Hall, Biddulph, Staffordshire, 6th December - The Greystones, Sheffield. Tickets and info: www.ents24.com/uk/tour-dates/sierra-hull

Watchhouse in concert, 02 Shepherds Bush Empire, London, 22nd November 2022

North Carolina’s Watchhouse, formerly known as Mandolin Orange, tour their new and reformed sound and their latest stunning body of work from their self-titled studio album. Their London appearance takes place on Wednesday 22nd November, 7.00pm at O2 Shepherds Bush Empire. Tickets available via this link: www.academymusicgroup.com/o2shepherdsbushempire/events/1378926/watchhouse-tickets

Vivaldi
Gloria
Bassoon concerto in E RV484
Mandolin Concerto in C RV425 - Soloist Raffaele Esposito
Oboe & Violin Concerto RV 548
Violin Concerto Winter
St George’s is transformed into a candlelight auditorium taking us back to the Chiesa di Santa Maria Della Pieta in Venice where Antonio Vivaldi worked and performed many of his compositions.
100 candles will adorn the stage and the Bristol Ensemble along with the Fitzhardinge Consort will perform some of Vivaldi’s greatest works including the stunning Gloria and concertos for Bassoon, Mandolin and of course Winter from the Four Seasons. For tickets: www.bristolensemble.com/product/viva-vivaldi-16-november-2022/

Viva Vivaldi - Bristol Ensemble with the Fitzhardinge Consort & mandolinist Raffaele Esposito, St George's Bristol, 7.30 pm, 16th November 2022

Chris Thile 2022 Autumn European Tour, UK dates 9th - 13th November 2022.

Chris Thile tours Europe, promoting his solo album 'Laysongs', published by Nonesuch. Laysongs' centrepiece is the three-part “Salt (in the Wounds) of the Earth,” which was inspired by C.S. Lewis’s The Screwtape Letters. The album also features a song Thile wrote about Dionysus; a performance of the fourth movement of Béla Bartók’s Sonata for Solo Violin; “God Is Alive, Magic Is Afoot” based on Buffy Sainte-Marie’s adaptation of a Leonard Cohen poem; a cover of bluegrass legend Hazel Dickens’ “Won’t You Come and Sing for Me,” and “Ecclesiastes 2:24," original instrumental loosely modelled after the Prelude from J.S. Bach’s Partita for Solo Violin in E Major.
November UK tour dates are: Wednesday 9th - St George's Bristol, Thursday 10th - Warwick Arts Centre Coventry, Friday 11th - Queen Elizabeth Hall London, Saturday 12th - Royal Northern College of Music Manchester, Sunday 13th - The Glasgow Royal Concert Hall Glasgow.
Details and tickets via the link: serious.org.uk/events/chris-thile

The Carrivick Sisters, Cecil Sharp House, London, 9th November 2022

The Carrivick Sisters are one of the UK's top young bluegrass and folk acts. Twins Laura and Charlotte perform their original songs and instrumentals along with a few carefully chosen covers on guitar, mandolin, fiddle, dobro, and clawhammer banjo.
Having grown up in South Devon, an area rich in folklore and legends, much of their original material is inspired by their local surroundings and history, as well as their passion for old stories and American folk music. Their London concert takes place on Wednesday 9th November, 7.30pm at Cecil Sharp House, 2 Regents Park Road, London NW1 7AY.
Tickets available here: www.efdss.org/whats-on/26-gigs/11169-the-carrivick-sisters

Simon Mayor's Mandolins at Settle Workshop, Yorkshire, 16th - 20th October 2022

The Mandolins at Settle workshop, led by Simon Mayor, takes place at the Falcon Manor Hotel, Settle, Yorkshire, from 16th-20th October. Simon's preference is to teach through tunes, discussing matters of technique as they crop up. He covers basic right and left hand positions, tremolo, position shifts, playing in closed positions, use of the plectrum and tone production, improvisation, and much more. His aim is to de-mystify the mandolin as much as possible, whether that be finding your way around the neck, or understanding some of that dreaded music theory! Music in both notation and tablature is sent out in advance, along with mp3 files.
For further details: mandolin.co.uk/workshops/

7th Madeira Mandolin Festival, Funchal, Madeira, 13th - 16th October 2022

The 7th Madeira Mandolin Festival takes place in Funchal, Madeira from 13th - 16th October. The internationally renowned festival is one of the largest of its kind in the world. Madeira has a centuries old tradition in the mandolin, and provides a unique meeting place for plucked string instrumentalists. There will be film exhibitions, concerts with international artists, orchestras and tunas, chamber music and masterclasses. Further information regarding the event and programme via this link: www.madeiramandolinfestival.com/en

Cremona MusIca International Exhibitions & Festival presents the Second Edition of “Cremona Mandolini In Mostra” inside the Acoustic Guitar Village Area, Cremona, Italy, 23rd - 25th September 2022

Cremona Musica International Exhibitions and Festival (23-25 September 2022) is the number one Exhibition for high-quality musical instruments taking place every year in Cremona, hometown of Antonio Stradivari and international pole of musical instruments. Within the Acoustic Guitar Village, mandolins will be center stage with the project "Mandolini in Mostra", now at its second edition after the great success of last year. It is a great national and international event focusing on mandolin, the plucked instrument deeply rooted in Italian traditions.
"We will describe its history and evolution during the years, we will analyze its making and constructions and also address execution and interpreting techniques - explains Alessio Ambrosi, Artistic Advisor of Cremona Musica and organizer of this event with the cultural association Armadillo -. For the first time, the greatest mandolin experts from all over the world will come together here in Cremona".
Artistic director of the event is Maestro Carlo Aonzo, internationally renowned mandolinist, who will rely on the precious cooperation of Maestro Lorenzo Frignani, instrument maker and great expert of historical instruments.
Among the international guests of Cremona Musica, Mike Marshall, American mandolinist who will perform live, Alex Timmerman, collector and expert from the Netherlands and Ugo Orlandi, Maestro and teacher, will be actively involved in the following program:
- Masterclass on the Baroque solo repertoire (technique and improvisation: Vivaldi, Cecere and Giuliani) held by Maestro Carlo Aonzo will take place on Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 September from 10 to 12; details and registration at this link: http:// www.cremonamusica.com/acoustic-guitar-village/
- Exhibition of historical instruments by the master luthier Lorenzo Frignani (every day inside the Acoustic Guitar Village exhibition area).
- Conference "The Art of the Mandolin" meeting with contemporary luthiers; moderator Lorenzo Frignani. At the speakers' table the mandolin exhibitors of the "Luthier’s Row” of the AGV.
- Conference-round table "The teaching of the mandolin: where are we?" curated by Lorenzo Frignani and Carlo Aonzo. Speakers Ugo Orlandi, Alex Timmerman and various teachers of music schools and conservatories.
- Conference "Discovering the true Paganini of the Mandolin: Pietro Vimercati",speakers Alex Timmerman, Ugo Orlandi, Carlo Aonzo. Introduction by Lorenzo Frignani.
- Conference "Faithful copy of historical mandolins: how close can we get to the original instruments?" In a path that winds through music, history and science, the results obtained in the copy of a specimen of baroque mandolin by luthier Joseph Filano will be illustrated. Speakers Martino Quintavalla and Federico Gabrielli.
- Conference-concert on the figure of Raffaele Calace and the plectrum and plucked instruments of the time, by Roberto Guarnieri on guitar and Eugenio Palumbo on mandolin
- Presentation of the book "Il Mandolino Blues" - From Mississippi to the Mediterranean, roots, developments and modern styles - Edizioni Fingerpicking.net - Foreword by Mike Marshall, Carlo Aonzo, Rich Del Grosso. With the participation of the authors Stefano Tavernese and Lino Muoio, the publisher Reno Brandoni and the artists Carlo Aonzo and Mike Marshall.
- Review of orchestras, plucked ensembles, mandolin clubs from various parts of Italy. There will be: Popular Mandolin Orchestra (Carderara di Reno, Bologna), Le Pizziche (Rome), Estense Mandolin Ensemble (Modena), Amici del Mandolino Orchestra (Milan), Tita Marzuttini Orchestra (Udine), City of Milan plectrum orchestra, Mutinae Plectri (Modena), Gino Neri Orchestra (Ferrara), Eliante Orchestra (Switzerland) and other mandolin clubs.
The performances will be held on the Open Stage and on the Classic Stage, Zelioli Lanzini Room.
Maestro Carlo Aonzo will perform in the Gala Concert which on Friday September 23rd in the Auditorium of the Museum of the Violin and in the public open air concert on Saturday 24th at 8pm in the Federico II courtyard in front of the Cremona Cathedral with free entrance.
The complete program and schedule of performances and conferences will be published on http://www.acousticguitarvillage.net/en/cremona-2022/program/ and on the events page of www.cremonamusica.com

International Mandolin & Guitar Accademia, Genova, Italy, 14th - 21st August 2022

Registration is now open for the 16th Edition of the International Mandolin & Guitar Accademia. Founded by Carlo Aonzo, this years edition features tutors Carlo Aonzo, Michele de Martino (mandolin), John Kirk (North American Folk & Old Time mandolin), Fabio Gallucci (mandolin & mandola), Roberto Margaritella & Cristiano Alasia (guitar). The residential course includes workshops, ensemble and orchestral work, classes, concerts and conferences. Further information and registration via this link: www.accademiamandolino.com/info-xvi-accademia

Mandol'in Marseilles Festival, Marseilles, France, 9th - 13th July 2022

The Mandol'in Marseilles Festival, organised by mandolinist and composer Vincent Beer-Demander, welcomes the Orchester National à Plectres de France! You are invited to join a group of musicians from all over France for a week of work sessions and rehearsals that will culminate in a magnificent concert on July 13, 2022 alongside prestigious artists.
Registration is required before May 15, 2022. Further details available via these links:compagnievbd.fr/mandolin-marseille-festival/ & www.cmf-musique.org/actions/orchestre-national-densemble-a-plectre/

Mandolin & Guitar Musical Campus, Modena, Italy, 6th - 10th July 2022

Hosted by Mutinae Plectri of Modena, Italy, the 6th Music campus for Mandolin and Guitar takes place from 6th - 10th July 2022. It will be held at the Centro Tabor, in Gaiato di Pavullo in the province of Modena. The course will include individual lessons, orchestral work, concerts and conferences. The tutors are Miki Nishiyama (mandolin), Roberto Melangola (guitar) and Davide Pancetti (theory, analysis and orchestral activity). Registration is required by 1st April. For further information visit www.ottocorde.it or e-mail [email protected]

The American Mandolin & Guitar Summer School, Rhode Island, USA, 27th June - 2nd July 2022

Founded in 1986, The American Mandolin & Guitar Summer School was one of the first annual American summer schools for these instruments. Run by Director Marilynn Mair, this year's edition takes place from 27th June to 2nd July at the Roger Williams University, Bristol, Rhode Island, USA. Each session combines classical study with an exploration of folk and world music, in workshops, small chamber ensembles and an all-school plucked-string orchestra.
For further details: www.marilynnmair.com/about/workshops/amguss/

The Art of Mandolin Making by luthier Alfred Woll

Well-respected German mandolin maker, Alfred Woll, has written a magnificent manual on the method of constructing beautiful traditional (Neapolitan or bowl back) mandolins based an his long career making these instruments.
His aim was to share his experience to enable new generations of instrument makers to continue the art. His manual first describes the evolution and history of these instruments before describing the method of construction in exquisite detail and with wonderful photos of every stage of construction. The book is available to purchase via this link: en.edition-mando.de/mandolinenbau/

David Braid, Journey Time premiere, Brunel Museum, London Thursday 22nd June 2022

The world premiere of the evening-long work Journey Time (music and words) by David Braid, takes place at the Brunel Museum Tunnel Shaft – Susanna McRae (soprano), David Black (guitar), Wanshu Qiu (viola), David Braid (mandolin), Stefan Inglis/All Electric Ensemble (sound design). Brunel Museum, Railway Avenue, Rotherhithe, London, SE16 4LF – Canada Water tube station (Jubilee line).
More info and booking details via this link: thebrunelmuseum.com/events/event/22799/

13th annual River of the West Mandolin Camp, Corbett, Oregon, USA, 9th - 12th June 2022

The 13th Annual River of the West Mandolin Camp, takes place on 9th-12th June, in Corbett, Oregon, located in the majestic Columbia River Gorge just 20 miles east of Portland, Oregon.
The instructors, chosen for their mandolin playing distinction and exceptional teaching abilities, include Don Stiernberg, Carlo Aonzo, Grant Flick and Camp founder Brian Oberlin. During the four days of mandolin immersion, each attendee will experience seven 90 minute workshops from all four teachers, ensemble rehearsals and performance, structured and non-structured jams, faculty concerts, open-mic concert, bonfire jam, meals, and lodging. The maximum student capacity is 55 which makes for smaller classes from some of the best mandolin players and teachers in the world.
Further details via the link: www.mandoberlin.com/river-west-camp.php

Carlo Aonzo Mandolin Workshop, Milwaukee, USA, 2nd - 5th June 2022

The Carlo Aonzo Mandolin Workshop 2022 will be held in Milwaukee, USA from 2nd-5th June 2022. It is hosted by the University of Wisconsin, and will take place on campus. The workshop consists of four days of mandolin orchestra rehearsal, with six hours of instruction each day - the last day includes a recital. This year the music includes Italian, Modern and Baroque repertoire, and sheet music will be sent out in advance.
Further information is available via this link: www.carloaonzomandolinschool.com/the-workshop/

London Mandolin Quartet in concert, Edenbridge Parish Church, Edenbridge, Kent, 28th May 2022

Hosted by Edenbridge Music and Arts Trust, London Mandolin Quartet will give a concert on Saturday 28th May, 7.00pm, at Edenbridge Parish Church, Ss Peter & Paul, Edenbridge, Kent
TN8 5BD.
Anna Lombardi, Tom Smith, Tom Newell and Maxine Wiltshire will perform a varied programme of Baroque and modern music. Concert and ticketing details are available via this link: www.edenbridgemusicandartstrust.org.uk/2022/the-london-mandolin-quartet/

Classical Mandolin Society of America - Call for Scores, closing submssion date 15th May 2022

The Classical Mandolin Society of America will hold a “New Music Reading Session” at its upcoming convention in Kalamazoo, Michigan, September 21-25, 2022.

CMSA is interested in receiving submissions of new works for mandolin orchestra, from which a selection will be read through by an ensemble of convention participants conducted by Dr. Jim Bates, Director of Orchestral Activities at Otterbein University, Columbus OH, and CMSA “En Masse” orchestra conductor.

Terms and Conditions:

No entry fee.
No restrictions on age, nationality, or prior experience. For composers who are new to writing for mandolin orchestra, a guide is available, written by Joel Hobbs, Director of the Austin (TX) Mandolin Orchestra.You can request a copy by sending an email to [email protected].
We are especially interested in receiving submissions from women and underrepresented minorities, in accordance with the CMSA “Mandolins Make A Difference” initiative (https://classicalmandolinsociety.org/outreach/).
Applicants may submit only one composition for consideration.All compositions must be unpublished and not previously performed.
Performance length of approximately 7 – 12 minutes.Multi-movement suites are acceptable.
Required Instrumentation: Mandolin #1, Mandolin #2, Mandola (CGDA and Octave), Mandocello, Classical Guitar, and Contrabass.Please note: Additional parts for other bowed (violin, viola, violoncello), wind, keyboard, or percussion instruments essential to the score will not be considered in evaluating the submission; and, if the work is selected, cannot be performed at the reading session.
Composers will retain copyright, publishing and all public performance rights after the reading session.
Deadline for submission is May 15, 2022. Please submit one PDF copy of the score prepared using standard music notation software (Sibelius, Finale, etc.) and a midi-realization by email to [email protected]. No handwritten scores or physical recordings will be accepted.
Dr. Bates will select the works for performance at the reading session.His decisions are final.Selected works will be announced by June 15, 2022.
If selected, composers agree to provide CMSA with instrument parts meeting our requirements by July 15, 2022.
An honorarium of $150.00 will be paid to composers whose works are selected for the reading session.
Composers of selected works are welcome to attend the reading session, but CMSA cannot provide any funds (e.g. travel, accommodations) for this purpose. Composers of selected works will be provided with feedback and a recording of the session after the convention.
Questions? Email [email protected] or fill out the contact form at https://classicalmandolinsociety.org/contact/

David Braid, Mandolin+1 Concert series - 13th May 2022

David Braid is curating the Mandolin+1 series of concerts across London, the last of which will take place on 13th May 2022 at St Bride's Church, Fleet Street, London.
Mandolin+1 series – No. 6 with David Black (guitar)
Friday 13th May 2022 at 1pm, St Bride's Church, Fleet Street, London EC4Y 8AU (free/retiring collection)

The Mandolin in Milan & Lombardy in 18th & 19th Century - a Conference presented by Maestro Ugo Orlandi & Tiziano Rizzi, 12th - 15th May 2022.

Ugo Orlandi & Tiziano Rizzi present a series of presentations on the mandolin in Milan & Lombardy during the 18th and 19th centuries, which will take place in Milan. A unique event for those who love the mandolin and want to know more. The conferences will be streamed and can be followed via the Facebook page of the Milan Conservatoire (you need to be logged in to Facebook to follow the link):
www.facebook.com/pages/Conservatorio-Di-Milano/294581940731524

Venice Mandolin Festival, Venice, Italy 4th - 7th May 2022

The Venice Mandolin Festival invites music lovers and amateur players of mandolin, mandola and guitar of all levels, plucked string ensembles and orchestras, professional soloists and conductors from all over the world to play concerts in Venice in the spring of 2022. The Festival will be arranged with the participation of young Italian opera singers, choir singers and professional musicians, promoting concerts and cultural exchanges between different countries. For further information contact Lars Forslund via this link: www.mandolin.academy/

Sean Shibe in concert at St Martin in the Fields, Central London, 1st April 2022.

Bach meets Steve Reich and Scottish lute songs encounter the New York underground in this latest musical exploration from guitarist Sean Shibe. The concert takes place at St Martin in the Fields, London, on 1st April, 7.30-9.30pm. The programme includes anonymous music from Scottish Lute Manuscripts, Bach's Suite in E Minor, Julian Eastman's Buddha and Steve Reich's Electric Counterpoint.
For details and tickets: www.stmartin-in-the-fields.org/whatson-event/baroque-meets-minimalism-sean-shibe-plays-bach-and-steve-reich/

Banjo Mandolin Guitar Federation Festival 2022, Edinburgh, 1st - 3rd April 2022

The BMG Federation Festival takes place this year from 1st - 3rd April at Merchiston Castle School, Edinburgh. The residential event is hosted by the Edinburgh Mandolin and Guitar Orchestra, and welcomes participants from the UK and beyond The weekend will include concerts, workshops, ceilidh and Open-stage, contests and orchestra performances. A syllabus and booking forms are available via this link: www.bbmg.org.uk/festival/

Mandolin Masterclass with Maestro Ugo Orlandi, Naples, Italy, 28th March - 2nd April 2022

A mandolin masterclass with Maestro Ugo Orlandi is being hosted by the Accademia Mandolinistica Napoletana. The event will take place at Piazzetta Museo Filangieri 247, Naples, Italy, from 28th March - 2nd April 2022. In addition to the masterclasses, a concert by Ugo Orlandi and Mauro Squillante will take place on 1st April.
E-mail for further details: [email protected]

Royal College of Music Museum, Prince Consort Road, London SW7 2BS

The Royal College of Music Museum maintains one of the richest and most relevant collections of music-related objects in the UK and Europe. Standing in excess of 15,000 items, it represents a range of music-making activities over a period of more than five centuries.

After undergoing extensive redevelopment, the Museum reopened to the public in October 2021. As an interactive space, it hosts regular performances by RCM musicians and the opportunity for you to create your own music in the Weston Discovery Centre. As well as musical instruments, the Museum tells its story through art, including an iconic portrait of Farinelli and a remarkable Tischbein featuring an instrument from the collection displayed alongside. Here's a YouTube link giving an overview of the museum: youtu.be/7fBXM-YY2bc

There are several historical mandolins in the collection. Visiting times must be booked in advance - more details via this link: www.rcm.ac.uk/events/details/?id=2322626

Mandolin World Retreat with Mike Marshall & Caterina Lichtenberg, Benicia, California, USA 18th - 20th March 2022

Join Mike Marshall and Caterina Lichtenberg for three days of mandolin bliss. Listen to, learn from and play with two of the most versatile mandolinists of our time. No matter your skill level, Mandolin World Retreats will take your playing to the next level.
The Retreat will touch on all styles of mandolin playing from Bluegrass, Swing, Jazz and Brazilian Choro, improvisation and chord theory to the entire history of Classical mandolin techniques spanning 300 years. This retreat is an immersive Mandolin intensive experience that also doubles as a fun-filled week-end getaway. Registration is now open, via the link: www.musicworldretreats.com/mandolin-world-2022-mike-marshall

West London Sinfonia, Gustav Mahler Symphony No. 7, St Barnabas Church, Pitshanger Lane, London W5 1QG, 12th March 2022.

Mandolinist Maxine Wiltshire joins West London Sinfonia for a performance of Gustav Mahler's Symphony No 7 on Saturday 12th March 2022, 7.30 pm. The symphony was written in 1904/05, and describes a musical journey from dusk, through night, until dawn. The mandolin is scored for the fourth movement. Tickets are available (online only) from the West London Sinfonia website: westlondonsinfonia.org/buy-tickets/

Craig Ogden in Concert with BBC Concert Orchestra, Southbank Centre, London, 9th March 2022.

As part of the BBC Concert Orchestra Season 2021/2022, Craig Ogden performs the world premiere of a new work, The Alabaster Chambers - David Knott's guitar concerto for guitar and orchestra, inspired by poet Emily Dickinson. The concert takes place on Wednesday 9th March, from 7.30 pm. at The Southbank Centre, London and tickets are on sale via this link: bbc.in/3p0DvgF

Miloš Karadaglic Homage to Segovia, Saffron Hall, Saffron Walden 20th February 2022

On Sunday 20th February Miloš will perform a Homage to Segovia. The concert takes place from 3.00-4.30 pm at Saffron Hall, Audley End Road, Saffron Walden CB11 4UH. His programme contains works by Fernando Sor, J.S. Bach, Isaac Albeniz, Villa-Lobos and Carlo Domeniconi. Tickets and further information available via the link:
www.saffronhall.com/whats-on/view/milos

Craig Ogden, Lunchtime Chamber Music Concert, Leeds Conservatoire, 2nd February 2022

As part of the Leeds International Concert Season, guitarist Craig Ogden will give a lunchtimeconcert at Leeds Conservatoire on Wednesday 2nd February, 1.05pm. His programme includes works by Dowland, Berkeley, Coste and the Walton Bagatelles. Admission is free, no booking required.
Further details via the link: www.leedsconcertseason.co.uk/whatson-event/3976/?venue=1404/#

Simon Mayor's Mandolin Weekend, Halsway Manor, Somerset, 21st - 23rd January 2022

Simon Mayor is one of the world’s leading mandolin virtuosos and composers for the instruments. His many faceted career includes his own series on BBC Radio 2, an album in the Classic FM Top Ten chart and causing mayhem at a Canadian humour festival, but his most thrilling moment was a journey through the square window on BBC’s Playschool!
Mandolinists, mandola players, mandocellists and mandobassists are all invited to this group experience involving some ensemble playing (with easy parts to follow). All ability levels are welcome, with the exception of complete beginners who may find themselves struggling. Ideally you’ll be able to get from start to finish of a fairly simple tune without stalling, and you’ll be able to read music or tablature to a reasonable standard (if you’re an experienced player but have only ever played by ear, tablature is very easy to learn). If you’re a guitarist or violinist trying a mandolin for the first time, you should be OK, but this is otherwise not going to be suitable for a beginner. PDFs of music/tablature and sound files will be sent out in advance.
halswaymanor.org.uk/event/simon-mayors-mandolin-weekend/

5th Winter edition of International Mandolin and Guitar Accademia, Santeramo in Colle, 28th December 2021 - 1st January 2022

Registration is now open for the 5th Winter Edition of the International Italian Mandolin and Guitar Accademia, which takes place this year in Santeremo in Colle, Puglia. Tutors are Carlo Aonzo, Michele de Martino (mandolin), Vito Nicola Paradiso and Roberto Margaritella (guitar). More info is available via this link: www.accademiamandolino.com/info-puglia

Sierra Hull, UK tour, various dates 3rd - 8th December 2021

In her first 25 years alone, singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist Sierra Hull hit more milestones than many musicians accomplish in a lifetime. After making her Grand Ole Opry debut at the age of 10, the Tennessee-bred virtuoso mandolinist played Carnegie Hall at age 12, then landed a deal with Rounder Records just a year later.
Now 28-years-old, Hull is set to deliver her fourth full-length for Rounder: an elegantly inventive and endlessly captivating album called 25 Trips. UK Tour dates -
8th Dec. - The Met, Bury, Lancs
9th Dec. - Kings Place, London
Tickets available here: www.ents24.com/uk/tour-dates/sierra-hull

The Classical Mandolin Society of America Convention in the Cloud, 12th-14th November 2021

The 35th annual Classical Mandolin Society of America convention takes place virtually from 11th - 14th November 2021. The convention will include a steady stream of activities, including workshops and panel discussions with renowned musicians and educators, hangout sessions, honours and awards, and the general meeting. Convention concerts, workshops, and OnDemand media will be available to registrants until the end of 2021. Guest artists include the Alexandrov-Skliar Duo, Buzz Gravelle, Tim Connell, Evan J. Marshall and August Watters.
classicalmandolinsociety.org/convention-2021/#myaccount

Na-Mara Duo, Brunel University, Uxbridge, Middlesex Friday 12th November 2021

Na-Mara Folk Duo, Rob Garcia and Paul McNamara, will give a lunchtime concert at Brunel University, Middlesex from 1.00-2.00 on Friday 12th November. The programme is based around their new album 'Sisters and Brothers'. Admission is free, details here: www.brunel.ac.uk/life/get-involved/brunel-arts/Concerts-and-performances/Lunchtime-concerts/2021-22/Na-Mara

London International Early Music Festival, Blackheath Halls, 23 Lee Road, London SE3 9RQ, 10th - 13th November 2021

The London International Festival of Early Music takes place 10-13th November 2021 in Blackheath, London. From makers to performers, and recitals to competitions, visit the four-day festival with a myriad of events designed to inspire, educate and entertain. Not only is it an opportunity to meet makers, try out instruments, and to hear some of the world’s most acclaimed performers in recital, but it is also a chance to network and meet with others in the early music field. Tickets for the exhibition and concerts are available via this link:
lifem.org/pages/tickets

Avi Avital & Arcangelo at Wigmore Hall, Thursday 28th October 2021

Reviving the tradition of the mandolin as a serious instrument for the concert and recital halls, Avi Avital was the first proponent of the mandolin to be nominated for a Classical GRAMMY. More than 100 works have been composed specially for him, some 15 of them concertos. With a leading period ensemble and conductor he focuses on music from the Baroque period, including arrangements of works originally conceived for other instruments. For tickets:
wigmore-hall.org.uk/whats-on/avi-avital-arcangelo-202110281930

Simon Mayor, Mandolins at Settle, Falcon Manor Hotel, Settle, 17th - 21st October 2021

From Simon Mayor: While the two regular weekend Mandolin Retreats I’ve hosted over the last few years at Kenwood Hall, Sheffield and Halsway Manor, Somerset continue to be very popular, Falcon Manor in Settle will be a longer, four day gathering. Group playing will still be an important part, but I’m planning on covering fewer pieces than on my weekend courses, and using the extra time to polish the ensemble sound. You’ll also get a chance to play in smaller groups, and to play a solo or two if you feel up to it (I hope you do). Your skill level is not the important thing here; it’s simply a chance to push your boundaries a little and to learn from each other in what – as veterans of these things will know – is always an atmosphere of wonderful camaraderie and mutual support.
Booking and further details via the link: mandolin.co.uk/booking-form-settle-2021/

The Consortium for Guitar Research prize, closing entry date 15th September 2021

The Consortium for Guitar Research at Sidney Sussex College, Cambridge, is offering an annual Research Prize of £200 for original research into the history of the guitar, or closely related plucked instruments, during the period 1540-1940. Entries from scholars, performers, instrument makers and collectors are invited. The research must be previously unpublished. The opening date for submissions is 15th April, closing date 15th September 2021. For details: https://guitarconsortium.org/.../new-the-consortium.../

15th International Mandolin & Guitar Accademia, Genoa, Italy 15th - 22nd August 2021

The 15th Edition of the International Mandolin & Guitar Accademia, directed by Carlo Aonzo, will take place in Genoa Nervi, Italy from 15th - 22nd August 2021. Tutors are Carlo Aonzo, Vincent Beer-Demander, Michele De Martino (mandolin) and Roberto Margaritella, Vito Nicola Paradiso (guitar). The week long Accademia includes classes, ensemble and orchestral music works, workshops, conferences and concerts.
Registration is now open for students of mandolin, mandola, mandocello and classical & flamenco guitar. For further details: www.accademiamandolino.com/info-xv-accademia

Avi Avital and the Academy of St Martin in the Fields online concert, Friday 9th July 2021

Avi Avital and the Academy of St Martin in the Fields perform a virtual concert on Friday 9th July 2021, from 7.30-8.30pm. The programme includes: Biber – Battalia à 10, Avner Dorman – Mandolin Concerto, Bach arr. Avital – Concerto for Violin in A minor, Grieg – Holberg Suite. Tickets for the online event cost £10, and the concert will be available to view for 30 days. To book: www.stmartin-in-the-fields.org/whatson-event/avi-avatal-and-the-academy/

12th annual River of the West (virtual) Mandolin Camp, 11th-13th June 2021

The 12th annual River of the West (virtual) Mandolin Camp on 11th-13th June 2021 is being held online via Zoom meetings. The instructors are Camp founder Brian Oberlin, Don Stiernberg, John Reischman, Evan Marshall, Cynthia McDermott and Andrew Collins. At this three day event of mandolin immersion, there will be twelve 90' workshops and three 60' concerts. The schedule is based on the pacific time zone and classes will run from 9:00 am – 5:30 pm daily with concerts starting at 6:00 pm. A multitude of short and long breaks are built into the schedule. The maximum student capacity is 60 and the cost is $250.00. Further details available via this link: www.mandoberlin.com/river-west-camp.php

Centrum Online Choro Workshop, 17th & 24th April, 1st May 2021

Centrum’s International Choro Workshop is known for its remarkable faculty - Dudu Maia, Anat Cohen, Jovino Santos Nito, Douglas Lora, Alexandre Lora, and Daniela Spielmann - all of whom will be back for the 11th edition and online version in 2021. Included will be Special Topics sessions, instrumental master classes, and a live-streamed concert. Further information and registration via the link: centrum.org/centrum-choro-workshop/?fbclid=IwAR0OP3Tmj53wl8lvvuHkSt8dnz3LBQ_l6Z0yNprJadDUgy2rYCt5BDSm51g

British BMG Federation Online Festival, Saturday 27th March 2021

The British BMG Federation Online Festival takes place this Saturday 27th March. The one day event includes workshops and concerts, and is open to all - details and booking available via this link: https://www.bbmg.org.uk/festival/

Classical Mandolin Society of America Convention in the Clouds, 13th - 15th November 2020

The Classical Mandolin Society of America is holding a Convention in the Clouds for 2020 - a three day virtual event with top-notch performers, workshop presenters and performers. Performances, webinars and workshops take place with Natalia Korsak & Matthias Collet, Hilary James & Simon Mayor, Plektra with Stephen Lalor and more, along with an Open Mic event, and En Masse Orchestra conducted by Jim Bates, all from the comfort of home! The convention is open to members and non-members of CMSA. For more details, registration and fees for this event, use the following link: classicalmandolinsociety.org

*Cancelled - British BMG Federation Festival, Edinburgh, Scotland, 27th - 29th March 2020

The biennial British BMG Federation Festival takes place in Edinburgh 27th-29th March 2020. The Festival is being hosted by the Edinburgh Mandolin and Guitar Orchestra, and the weekend will include concerts, workshops, informal playing and contests. There will be a range of stall holders with musical instruments, accessories & publications, plus crafts & produce. For more information, and to register: www.banjomandolinguitar.org/rally.htm

Mandolin Beginners Workshop, The Stables, Wavendon, Milton Keynes, 22nd March 2020

A Mandolin Beginners workshop for Adults/15+ takes place on Sunday 22nd March 2020 from 10.00-3.00. The workshop is being held at The Stables, Wavendon, Milton Keynes MK17 8LU. The workshop will introduce both melody and rhythm instrument styles of playing. It will look at basic technique, simple tunes, chord shapes and progressions, and playing as a group, and is suitable for those who have some basic experience of stringed instruments (such as guitar, ukulele, banjo, bazouki, violin) and who can play basic open chords and a few scales or tunes. An ability to read tablature is useful but not essential.
Cost of the workshop is £37.00, and booking details can be found via the link: stables.org/workshop/mandolin-beginners

Na-Mara in concert at Brunel University, Uxbridge, Middlesex, 20th March 2020

Renowned folk duo Na-Mara, Paul McNamara and Rob Garcia, return to Brunel University for a Friday lunchtime concert on Friday 20th March, 1.10 - 1.50 pm. It will be held at the Beldam Restaurant, Eastern Gateway Building, Kingston Lane, Uxbridge, and their programme is based around their new album 'Sisters and Brothers'. Admission is free.
For details: www.brunel.ac.uk/life/get-involved/brunel-arts/Concerts-and-performances/Lunchtime-concerts/2019-20/Brunel-Friday-lunchtime-concert-Namara

Mike Marshall & Caterina Lichtenberg Mandolin Safari, South Africa, 5th - 11th February 2020

MISWA Music Safaris and Mandolin World Retreats present the Mike Marshall and Caterina Lichtenberg Mandolin Safari. The 6 day Mandolin safari in South Africa includes a full South African cultural tour, where you will experience South African wildlife, culture, music, dance, arts and crafts, fine South African cuisine and playing mandolin with Caterina and Mike.
During the workshop sessions, you can expect practical, hands-on instruction providing first hand musical encounters with Mike and Caterina. Mike is known as a Bluegrass and New-grass Master who also plays Classical and Brazilian music and Caterina is a world renowned Classical Mandolin player and Professor of Mandolin at the Music Conservatoire in Cologne, Germany.
A wide variety of mandolin styles and approaches will be covered. Students will be divided into groups according to their primary style of choice, whether Bluegrass or Classical, with the opportunity to expand musical horizons and repertoire by learning new songs and techniques.
Personalized and tailored instruction, an al fresco ‘bush performance’ by Mike & Caterina and the added bonus of jamming alongside them in the heart of one of the most beautiful settings in Africa will make it an unforgettable music safari experience.
Places are limited to 16 participants, and further information can be found via this link:
www.mswiamusicsafari.co.za/mike-marshall-caterina-lichtenberg-mandolin-safari/

Transatlantic Sessions with guest artists Sierra Hull & Tommy Emmanuel, Royal Festival Hall, London, 6th February 2020

Today’s finest Celtic and Americana musicians revisit shared roots and forge new common ground in the tenth appearance ofTransatlantic Sessions at Southbank Centre.
The project’s founding musical directors are Shetland fiddler legend Aly Bain and 14-time Grammy-winning Dobro master Jerry Douglas. They lead a house band that includes John Doyle, Michael McGoldrick, Russ Barenberg, John McCusker, Donald Shaw and James Mackintosh.

They are joined by the remarkable mandolin player, tone-true vocalist, and recording artist Sierra Hull, who was the first woman to win the prestigious IBMA Mandolin Player of the Year, and Tommy Emmanuel CGP, widely acknowledged as a master of the solo acoustic guitar.

The show brings together the best of Nashville, Ireland and Scotland in a format that affords the musicians the opportunity to play together for the love of the music they are playing. Transatlantic Sessions originated as part of the award-winning Pelicula/BBC TV series of the same name.
Tickets: www.southbankcentre.co.uk/whats-on/127938-transatlantic-sessions-2020

Bluegrass Masterclass with Sierra Hull, Glasgow, Scotland, 1st February 2020

Three-time winner of the IBMA Mandolin Player of the Year Award and co-founder of the First Ladies of Bluegrass, Sierra Hull will dig deep into the essential techniques needed to play any form of acoustic music on the mandolin. This workshop will explore the repertoire of traditional Bluegrass, Folk and American music while later diving into the world of creating original compositions. Tickets via Celtic Connections:
www.celticconnections.com/event/1/bluegrass-masterclass-with-sierra-hull

Miloš at Wigmore Hall, London, 25th January 2020

Guitarist Miloš Karadaglić gives a solo concert at London's Wigmore Hall on Saturday 25th January at 7.30 pm, playing arrangements of works conceived for lute and piano, as well as some classic Beatles songs. Under 25's are eligible for free tickets. Booking and concert details via the link:
wigmore-hall.org.uk/whats-on/milos-karadaglic-guitar-202001251930

Simon Mayor's Mandolin Weekend, Halsway Manor, Somerset, 24th - 26th January 2020

Renowned mandolinist Simon Mayor holds his 4th annual mandolin workshop at Halsey Manor in Somerset from 24th - 26th January. Simon will cover all right & left hand techniques including position shifting, tremolo, decoration, tone production & more. There will also be the opportunity to accompany songs with singers from Hilary James’ Voice Workshop which runs alongside this event.
Mandolinists, mandola players, mandocellists and mandobassists are all invited to this group experience involving some ensemble playing (with easy parts to follow).
Details from Halsway Manor: halswaymanor.org.uk/event/simon-mayors-mandolin-weekend/

Winter Edition IV - International Mandolin and Guitar Accademia, Sorrento, Italy, 2nd - 6th January 2020.

The IV Winter Edition of Carlo Aonzo's International Mandolin and Guitar Accademia takes place again in Sorrento, Italy, from 2nd - 6th January 2020. The course is suitable for players of all levels, from beginners to concert performers, and includes ensemble and orchestral playing, workshops,concerts and private classes. Mandolin, mandola, mandocello and guitar players are all catered for. Full board and all events are included. Follow the link for further information and to register: www.accademiamandolino.com/info

London Mandolin Quartet at The Foundling Museum, London, Sunday 15th December 2019

London Mandolin Quartet celebrates the music of George Frideric Handel and his fellow composers in this family-friendly concert at The Foundling Museum. Initiated by Thomas Coram, Handel supported the new Foundling Hospital, the UK's first children's charity, with royalties
from the Messiah. The concert takes place at 3.00 pm on Sunday 15th December at The Foundling Museum, 40 Brunswick Square, London WC1N 1AZ. Admission to the concert is included in the museum entry ticket, and there will be a Christmas cracker making event for children afterwards! foundlingmuseum.org.uk/events/handel-friends/

Monthly Mandolin Ensemble Classes, 14th December 2019

Sergio Vacca's monthly Mandolin Ensemble classes continue in London. The last date for this year is Saturday 14th December from 2.00-4.00 pm. The classes are fun and informative, and cater for beginning to intermediate players. The ability to read music notation is a requirement.
Please note the change of venue for the remainder of 2019: Classes will take place at 49 Great Ormond Street, WC1N 3HZ.

London Mandolin Ensemble in concert, with special guest Raffaele Esposito, at St Ethelburga's, London, Friday 6th December 2019.

For our last ensemble concert of 2019, LME presents an evening of mandolin music, featuring brilliant young Italian mandolinist Raffaele Esposito. The programme covers a range of music, including the famous Vivaldi Mandolin Concerto, and a fun UK premiere! The concert takes
place on Friday 6th December, 7.30 pm, at St Ethelburga's, 78 Bishopsgate, London EC2N 4AG.
Tickets can be purchased via this link: www.trybooking.co.uk/NQR

Guest artist biography

Raffaele Esposito was born in Sorrento, Italy in 1999, and began studying the mandolin at eleven years of age, under the guidance of Maestro Michele de Martino, and later with Maestro Nunzio Reina. He regularly takes part in masterclasses with world-famous concert performers, and has collaborated with various orchestras in Spain, Luxembourg, Germany, Croatia, France and Portugal.
In 2017 he won two important awards in the mandolin world: first prize at the Estudiantina Bergamesca International Competition, with special mention for the best performance of music by the composer Raffaele Calace, and second prize (the first was unassigned) at the International Competition for Solo Mandolin in Modena.
Raffaele is currently completing his graduate studies in classical mandolin under the guidance of Maestro Ugo Orlandi at the Giuseppe Verdi Conservatoire in Milan.

Concert with Mandol'in Progress and Moonlight Mandolin Orchestra, Cambridge, 7th December 2019

An evening of mandolin music, featuring artists Mauro Squillante, Gaio Ariani, Valerio Fusillo and the Moonlight Mandolin Orchestra takes place on Saturday 7th December at St Andrew's Street Baptist Church, Cambridge CB2 3AR. A series of afternoon workshops will take place on the same day. Tickets and details available via this link: www.moonlightmandolins.org/details-of-next-concert/

London Mandolin Quartet, St Olave's Church, London, Wednesday 27th November 2019.

London Mandolin Quartet sets sail on a voyage of mandolin music across Europe - the programme will include classical and world influences. The lunchtime concert takes place on Wednesday 27th November, 1.00-2.00 pm at St. Olave's Church, 8 Hart Street, in the City of London. Admission is free, with donations to St Olave's.

London International Early Music Festival, Blackheath, London, 7th - 9th November 2019

The 2019 London International Early Music Festival takes place from 7th - 9th November at Blackheath Halls, 23 Lee Road, Blackheath, London SE3 9RQ. Instrument makers, publishers and Early Music sellers come to the Festival to exhibit, and workshops and concerts are included in the programme of events.
Tickets and further information from The Early Music Shop via this link: earlymusicshop.com/pages/the-london-festival-of-early-music

Simon Mayor's Mandolin Retreat, Kenwood Hall, Sheffield 1st - 3rd November 2019

Simon Mayor's annual Mandolin Retreat takes place at Kenwood Hall, Sheffield, from 1st - 3rd November 2019. Guest mandolin tutor Polly Bolton will also teach alongside during the weekend.
Group playing is an important part of the event, with the chance to play in a mandolin orchestra. All aspects of mandolin technique are covered in the sessions, as well as music theory, and learning how to choose a varied repertoire with pieces that relate in some way to particular aspects of playing. PDFs of music/tablature and sound files are sent out well in advance. Registration and booking details via this link: mandolin.co.uk/booking-form-sheffield-2019/

Opal Flutes and London Mandolin Ensemble in concert, Dulwich, South London, 26th October 2019

Join us for this unique concert, hosted by Opal Flutes, on Saturday 26th October, 6.00 pm at St Clement with St Peter Church, Friern Road, Dulwich, London SE22 0AY. Based on the theme of British Discoveries, the programme will feature British music from Baroque to pop, with some new arrangements for flute and mandolin orchestra. We look forward to seeing you there...

Classical Mandolin Society of America Convention, Bloomington-Normal, Illinois, USA, 9th - 13th October 2019

The annual CMSA Convention takes place this year in Bloomington-Normal, Illinois, USA from 9th - 13th October 2019. In addition to pre-convention workshops,there will be open mic concerts, daily workshops, late night sight reading and other 'jams' together with en masse ensemble performance. Guest performers this year are Sebaastian de Grebber (mandolin), Naeim Rahmani (classical guitar) and Fabio Giudice (liuto cantabile and mandolin) . For further details: classicalmandolinsociety.org/convention-2019/

5th Bluegrass & Oldtime Mandolin Workshop, South Petherton, Somerset, UK, 28th - 29th September 2019

After 4 highly successful years, Jesper Rubner-Petersen is returning to South Petherton for the 5th Annual Mandolin Workshop.
During this two-day workshop, participants will be introduced to a number of different playing approaches and song forms. Drawing on a mix of traditional tunes and Jesper’s own modern arrangements, players gain new insights into both rhythm and improvisational playing, allowing them to stretch out and take their playing in new directions.
This year the workshop will be held at the Over Stratton Village Hall (TA13 5LL), less than a mile from South Petherton and just off the A303 roundabout.
The course is limited to only 16 places, ensuring Jesper can give all participants personal instruction and feedback. There will also be two short breaks each day for refreshments (e.g. coffee, tea and homemade cakes) allowing participants to share ideas or even have mini-jam sessions.
For booking and further information: jrpmandolin.com/?fbclid=IwAR0-jvGL6Ru0QqN5RQELKH8yp5yYePiFOs8g69mpiW2GvFAUFDiLu66XA_w

XIV International Mandolin & Guitar Accademia, Genova, Italy 18th - 25th August 2019

Registration is now open for the annual International Mandolin & Guitar Accademia, which takes place on 18th - 25th August in Genova Nervi, Italy. In addition to director Carlo Aonzo, teachers include Michele de Martino, Roberto Margaritella, David Surette, Sabine Spath, Francesco Mirarchi and Elio Rimondi. The week long course covers classes, ensemble and orchestral works, workshops, conferences and concerts. For further information and registration:
www.accademiamandolino.com/xiv-accademia

'Captain Corelli's Mandolin' stage production, various venues UK Tour 13th April - 31st August 2019

London Mandolin Ensemble's Sergio Vacca has coached both lead and understudy on mandolin, for this stage adaptation of 'Captain Corelli's Mandolin'. He has also recording incidental mandolin music for the show. The play marks the 25th anniversary of the Louis de Bernières novel, and the UK tour starts on 13th April. The play transfers to the Harold Pinter Theatre inLondon for 9 weeks from 4th July to 31st August.
Tour dates and tickets here: www.captaincorellismandolin.com/tour-dates

The Marshall Mandolin Summit, Marshall, Michigan, USA, 8th - 11th August 2019

The Marshall Mandolin Summit is a four-day mandolin experience held in Marshall, Michigan on August 8-11, 2019. The weekend will feature personalized instruction from world-renowned mandolin players including Mike Marshall, Caterina Lichtenberg, Don Stiernberg, John Reischman, and Sierra Hull, as well as once in a lifetime performances from the artists.
Registration is now open. Further details via this link: marshallmandosummit.com/registration/

Festival International de Mandoline de Castellar masterclasses, Provence-Alpes-Cote D'Azur, France, 19th - 21st July 2019

As part of the Festival International de Mandoline de Castellar, the organisers have arranged three days of masterclasses from 19th - 21st July 2019. Tutors are Carlo Aonzo and Sabine Marze (mandolin) and Anne Sophie Llorens (guitar). The course will include individual lessons and ensemble playing. Concerts with guest performers will take place 17th - 20th July. For further information e-mail: [email protected]

Mandolin/Italian Music workshop with John T. La Barbera, Tenuta Ippocrate, Montefredane, Campania, Southern Italy, 8th - 14th July 2019

The workshop takes place 8th - 14th July 2019 at Tenuta Ippocrate, Montefredane, Campania, Italy, and covers Italian traditional folk music, ensemble and chamber music, mandolin repertoire (Classical, Italian Traditional & Brazilian Choro) and accompaniment techniques.
Directed by John T. La Barbera, the workshop provides an excellent opportunity for professional and non professional musicians to experience ensemble playing. The repertoire will include a wide variety of styles from various world folk traditions, Jazz, Popular, Brazilian, Classical, and also original music.

All players are welcomed. The only requirement is that you can read music on your instrument. The workshop will be divided up into Beginners (for playing accompaniment, harmony parts), Intermediate and Advanced, (for playing the main melodies and for soloists).

Italian Music Workshops are based on LaBarbera's books, Traditional Southern Italian Mandolin and Fiddle Tunes, and Italian Folk Music for Mandolin (Mel Bay Publications).
This intermediate level workshop is hands-on and also includes the historical background of the music, techniques and repertoire of the songs, ballads, serenades, Neapolitan villanelle and authentic tarantella and pizzica music. Studies include mandolin techniques with preparatory technical studies; students will learn the Italian style of tremolo, picking, and rhythms that accentuate the music. A Final concert by participants will be held at the Tenuta.
For further information:
www.johntlabarbera.com/summerworkshopinitaly?fbclid=IwAR0CustCYABjSUnKR3bebQvs8aG-av_uwuqBzn7HEvYYWukcoABL1M96lkE

Mutinae Plectri 5th annual Mandolin and Guitar Music Campus, Modena, Italy, 10th - 14th July 2019

The 5th annual Mandolin & Guitar Campus, organised by Mutinae Plectri, takes place 10th-14th July in Modena, Italy. The course covers individual lessons, mandolin orchestra and chamber music, and other events include teacher's concert, a musicological conference and a final concert by attendees. Tutors are Miki Nishiyama and Sergio Zigiotti (mandolin), Roberto Melangola (guitar), Maria Cecilia Vaccari (mandolin ensemble) and Davide Pancetti (music analysis and harmony). For further information e-mail: [email protected]

Choro Workshops in London, various dates June - July 2019

The series of choro workshops with Clea Thomasset (flute, vocals) and Jonathan Preiss (7 string guitar) continues on 13th July from 2.00-5.00 pm at Willesden Green Library, 95, High Road, London NW10 2SF. The workshops are for intermediate or advanced players who wish to expand their knowledge and repertoire of Brazilian Choro. For further details:
www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/choro-workshops-with-clea-thomasset-and-jonathan-preiss-tickets-55232598188

The American Mandolin & Guitar Summer School, Roger Williams University, Bristol, Rhode Island, USA, 24th - 29th June 2019

The annual American Mandolin & Guitar Summer School, founded in 1986, takes place on 24th - 29th June 2019. Run by mandolinist Marilynn Mair, the summer school aims to develop your musicianship and interpretation skills through rehearsals, sectionals, and a concert performance. There will also be small ensemble coaching, workshops, concerts and informal jam sessions. Registration is now open, and is limited to 35 players. For more information:
www.marilynnmair.com/about/workshops/amguss/

Mandolin Orange, Islington Assembly Hall London, 15th May 2019

Mandolin Orange is an Americana/folk duo based out of Chapel Hill, North Carolina. The group was formed in 2009 in Chapel Hill, North Carolina and consists of the group's songwriter Andrew Marlin (vocals, mandolin, guitar, banjo) and Emily Frantz (vocals, violin, guitar). Mandolin Orange has produced five albums of Marlin's original works bearing the stamp of folk, country, bluegrass, gospel and pop, all mingled in a unique melange perhaps best described simply as modern American roots music. Their music is characterized by strong, tight vocal harmonies and virtuosic musicianship. In the last three years, the group has toured to general acclaim throughout the U.S and Europe, including appearances at Austin City Limits, South-by-Southwest, Telluride Bluegrass Festival, Newport Folk Festival, Pickathon, and Merlefest.

They will visit London on 15th May 2019 at Islington Assembly Hall, Upper Street, London N1 2UD, 7.00pm.
www.musicglue.com/mandolin-orange/events/ebf4a090-d3d6-0136-b89d-4a5c4adb2434

May 2019 Dates for Mandolin Ensemble Classes at Westminster Music Library, Victoria, London

Plucked string classes, run by Sergio Vacca, for beginners and intermediate mandolin, mandola and mandocello players, continue in London. The last session before the summer break will take place on 11th May from 2.00-4.00 at Westminster Music Library, 160 Buckingham Palace Road, SW1W 9UD. Advance registration is required. For further information and booking contact:
[email protected]

London Mandolin Ensemble in concert - 'A Programme of British music featuring the work of Eileen Pakenham', Saturday 27th April, Harpenden, Herts.

Simon Mayor's Settle Mandolin Retreat, 31st March - 4th April 2019

Simon Mayor has put considerable energy into group mandolin workshops. He has taught at numerous international festivals including the Classical Mandolin Society of America, the Goderich Celtic Roots Festival (Ontario, Canada) and the International Guitar Symposium (Iserlohn, Germany). He also teaches regularly in the UK at The National Centre For Folk Arts (Halsway Manor, Somerset) and at his own Mandolin Retreats.
The weekend will be a great opportunity to meet like-minded people and to learn to play as an ensemble. So while some tunes will be melody only, some will be arranged in parts specifically for ensemble playing.
The Settle Mandolin Retreat takes place from 31st March - 4th April 2019 at Falcon Manor Hotel, Settle, in the Yorkshire Dales. For further information: mandolin.co.uk/workshops/

The 17th March Mandolin Festival, Concord, New Hampshire, USA, 1st - 3rd March 2019

The 17th annual March Mandolin Festival will be held March 1-3, 2019 at the Concord Community Music School in Concord, New Hampshire. This year, the Festival features Canadian newgrasser Andrew Collins, Irish and old-time from Flynn Cohen, bluegrass with Alan Epstein, and festival organizer and tune-monger David Surette, with special guest vocalist Susie Burke. This two-day event offers group lessons and workshops on a variety of topics, jam sessions, and an evening concert. As in past years, the Festival will present a March 1, Friday night concert featuring the same performers over on the seacoast; this year the show will be returning to the Stone Church in Newmarket, one of the Seacoast’s premier venues for live roots music (this is a separate ticket from the Concord events).
For further info:
www.ccmusicschool.org/index.php/music-school-concerts-events-calendar/eb-event-calendar-full/public-events/workshops/196-march-mandolin-festival-2019

London Mandolin Quartet: 'Handel and the Mandolin' at St Olave Hart St, EC3R 7NB, 6th February 2019

London Mandolin Quartet pays homage to Handel and to his close friendships with some of the great Baroque composers. Sergio Vacca (mandolin), Maxine Wiltshire (mandolin) John Maw (octave mandola) and Alexander Hart (guitar) will perform specially arranged works by Handel.
The lunchtime concert takes place on Wednesday 6th February, 1.00-2.00 pm, at St Olave Hart Street, London EC3R 7NB.
Free admission, with donations to St Olave's.

Simon Mayor Mandolin Weekend, Halsway Manor, Somerset, 25th-27th January 2019

The overwhelming success of Simon’s ‘Halsway Manor Mandolin Workshop Weekend’ over the last three years prompted immediate requests for this return visit – and here it is!
Simon will cover all right & left hand techniques including position shifting, tremolo, decoration, tone production & more. There will also be the opportunity to accompany songs with singers from Hilary James’ Voice Workshop which runs alongside this event.

Mandolinists, mandola players, mandocellists and mandobassists are all invited to this group experience involving some ensemble playing (with easy parts to follow). For further info and bookings:
halswaymanor.org.uk/event/simon-mayor-mandolin-weekend/

International Mandolin & Guitar Accademia, Sorrento, Italy 26th-30th December 2018

The third Winter edition of the International Mandolin & Guitar Accademia, directed by Maestro Carlo Aonzo, takes place 26th-30th December2018, in the beautiful surroundings of Villa Crawford, Sorrento. The five day course will include workshops, sectional, ensemble and orchestral rehearsals, as well as individual lessons and concert performances. Registration is now open, and further details can be found here:
www.accademiamandolino.com/info-iii-edition

Avi Avital & the Venice Baroque Orchestra at Wigmore Hall, London, 22nd December 2018

Israeli mandolinist Avi Avital returns to Wigmore Hall, with the Venice Baroque Orchestra on Saturday 22nd December 2018, with a programme of music by Geminiani, Vivaldi and Paisiello. Avi Avital is dedicated to giving the mandolin a higher profile, his mission involving commissioning new pieces, but his focus for this concert is original or attributed works and arrangements from 18th-century Italy, including his own transcriptions.
For details and booking: wigmore-hall.org.uk/whats-on/avi-avital-venice-baroque-orchestra-201812221930

Choro workshop, at Latin American House, London - 15th December 2018

TransversArte continue a new season of choro workshops, with Cléa Thomasset (flute, vocals) and Jonathan Preiss (7-string guitar). The last workshop of the year will take place on 15th December from 3.00-6.00 at Latin American House, 10 Kingsgate Place, London NW6 4TA.

Open to all instruments, this will be a great opportunity for intermediate amateur players to professional musicians, willing to improve their Choro playing, or simply discover the interpretation of this genuine Brazilian instrumental music genre.

For details contact TransversArte at www.transversarte.com

Classical Mandolin Society of America Convention 2018, Santa Rosa, California, 14th - 18th November 2018

This year's CMSA Convention is being held at the Flamingo Hotel, Santa Rosa, California from 14th-18th November, and is being hosted by the Aurora Mandolin Orchestra, the Gravenstein Mandolin Ensemble and the San Francisco Mandolin Orchestra. There will be open mic concerts, daily workshops, late night sight reading and other 'jams' together with en masse ensemble performance. Guest performers this year are Dorina Frati and Takumi Mamiya. For further details: classicalmandolinsociety.org/convention-2018/

Punch Brothers, Barbican London, 16th November 2018

Punch Brothers specialise in turning traditional Roots music on its head – using Bluegrass as a starting point to explore and experiment a plethora of other genres. The band wear their diverse influences on their sleeves, paying homage to Bach one minute and referencing the Beach Boys the next. What shines through this diverse tapestry of inspiration however is the breath-taking level of virtuosity displayed by the five players. Their natural musicianship thrives in a live environment as they move fluidly from the melancholic to the frantic with surprising spontaneity.
Formed by Chris Thile in 2007, Punch Brothers have carved a niche as a band bringing Bluegrass into the 21st century. The group released their album, The Phosphorescent Blues, in 2015 to widespread praise and released their follow-up LP in July 2018.
Their concert at the Barbican is on 16th November at 7.30.pm.
www.barbican.org.uk/whats-on/2018/event/punch-brothers

London Mandolin Quartet concert at Handel House Museum, Tuesday 6th November 2018

London Mandolin Quartet pays homage to Handel and to his close friendships with some of the great Baroque composers. Sergio Vacca (mandolin), Maxine Wiltshire (mandolin) John Maw (octave mandola) and Alexander Hart (guitar) will perform specially arranged works by Handel.
The concert takes place on Tuesday 6th November, 6.30 pm, in the Music Room, Handel House Museum, 25, Brook Street, Mayfair, London W1K 4HB.
For booking details: handelhendrix.org/whats-on/events/handel-and-the-mandolin/

Simon Mayor and Hilary James Mandolin & Voice Retreats at Kenwood Hall Hotel, Sheffield. 5th-7th October 2018

Simon’s next scheduled mandolin workshop weekend is a return visit to what is fast becoming an annual event at the very comfortable Kenwood Hall Hotel in Sheffield. As last year, Hilary James will be running a concurrent voice workshop and they will combine the singers and mandolinists in the last session to form a massed choir and mandolin orchestra for a few pieces.
For bookings and rates: mandolin.co.uk/booking-form/

Classical Guitar Masterclass with Craig Ogden, Hawkwood College, Stroud, Glos, 20th - 22nd August 2018

A classical guitar masterclass with Craig Ogden takes place 20th - 22nd August at Hawkswood College, Stroud, Glos. The masterclass is aimed at Grade 8 + students, covering technique (with particular focus on the right hand),interpretation, preparation for performance, ensemble skills, relaxation, concentration and more. For advanced players, from keen amateurs to college students and professionals. More information via the link: www.hawkwoodcollege.co.uk/courses-and-events/arts/classical-guitar-masterclass---craig-ogden

The Marshall Mandolin Summit, Marshall, Michigan, USA, 11th - 12th August 2018

XIII International Italian Mandolin & Guitar Accademia, Genoa, Italy, 12th - 19th August 2018

The XIII International Mandolin & Guitar Accademia takes place this year from 12th - 19th August in Genoa. Run by Director Carlo Aonzo, this course is one of the highlights of the mandolin year. Tutors for mandolin are Carlo Aonzo, Michele de Martino, Sabine Spath and David Surette. Guitar tutors are Katsumi Nagaoka and Roberto Margaritella, with Alessandro Graziano overseeing ensemble music.

The course covers workshops, ensemble and orchestral work, classes, conferences and concerts. It is open to players of mandolin, mandola, mandocello and guitar at all levels. Registration is now open for the course, and further details can be found via this link:
www.accademiamandolino.com/genova-2018

Masterclasses with Dorina Frati, Villa Bernocchi, Premeno, Italy, 5th - 12th August 2018

Italian classical mandolinist Dorina Frati will hold a series of masterclasses in mandolin and chamber music from 5th - 12th August at Villa Bernocchi, Premeno, Italy. More information via this link:
www.accademiavillabernocchi.com/mandolincourse.htm

Joao Bosco Quartet & Hamilton de Holanda, Union Chapel, London, Friday 27th July 2018

Legendary MPB Brazilian Singer-Songwriter João Bosco brings his Quartet and special guest bandolinist Hamilton de Holanda to London for one night only.
João Bosco released his solo, self-titled debut album in 1973 on RCA Brazil. The album featured his 'Bala Com Bala' composition which was covered in the same year by Elis Regina. João is famed in the Jazz-Dance scene for 'O Ronco De Cuica' from his 1976 'Galos De Briga' album which was championed by Gilles Peterson, Snowboy, Kevin Beadle and others.
João has worked with Chico Buarque, Milton Nascimento, João Donato, Lee Ritenour, Eliane Elias and many more.
Hamilton de Holanda is a Brazilian Bandolinist who has won several Latin Grammys. He is known for his mixture of Jazz & Choro and for his instrumental virtuosity. His first group Dois de Ouro was formed with his brother Fernando César and he has collaborated with Joel Nascimento, Yamandu Costa and many more.

Alon Sariel - 'The Oriental Mandolin' Workshop, Crown Court Church of Scotland, London, Saturday 14th July 2018

An exciting opportunity to meet and study with virtuoso mandolinist Alon Sariel in London. This will be a refreshingly different workshop, covering a number of styles, including Arabic, Asian Pentatonic, Balkan and Jewish traditional music, in relation to the mandolin, while touching on matters such as arranging, intonation, ornamentation and rhythm. The workshop takes place on Saturday 14th July, 2.00-5.00, at Crown Court Church of Scotland, Russell Street, Covent Garden, London WC2B 5EZ.
For further details, contact [email protected]

26th American Mandolin & Guitar Summer School, Rhode Island, USA, 25th - 30th June 2018

Marilynn Mair's 26th American Mandolin & Guitar Summer School (AMGuSS) has announced June 25-30, 2018 as the dates for their annual session, held on the waterfront campus of Roger Williams University in Bristol, Rhode Island, USA.
Daily coaching over five full days, in both orchestra and small ensemble settings, focuses on creating a meaningful dialog between the accomplished faculty of five music professionals, and AMGuSS students, with the aim of improving overall musicianship and instrumental technique.
Repertoire to be studied in the ensembles includes a mix of Baroque, Classical, and Brazilian masterworks. The addition of evening concerts, daily classes, and informal jam sessions guarantees that AMGuSS will expand students' concept of what it is possible for them to achieve as musicians.

Participation is limited to 35 students. As a sell-out is anticipated, early registration is strongly recommended.
Further information via the link: www.marilynnmair.com/about/workshops/amguss/

London Mandolin Ensemble - Make Music Day at Westminster Music Library, 21st June 2018

To celebrate Make Music Day 2018, London Mandolin Ensemble with give an afternoon 'Learn to Play the Mandolin' workshop, and an evening concert of music for plucked strings at Westminster Music Library, 160 Buckingham Palace Road, London SW1 9UD.
We are happy to announce that the workshop is oversubscribed, and that our concert is already fully booked!

Choro Workshop, London, Saturday 16th June 2018

TransversArte and Clube do Choro UK will hold their next Choro workshop with Cléa Thomasset & Jonathan Preiss, on Saturday 16th June 15.00-18.00 at Latin American House, 10 Kingsgate Place, London NW6 4TA.
Open to all instruments, the workshops are a great opportunity for intermediate amateur players to professional musicians, willing to improve their Choro playing, or simply discover the interpretation of this genuine Brazilian instrumental music genre.
The workshops cover different styles of Brazilian choro (maxixe, polca, scottish, samba...) and its original language, discovering choro's historical context and great composers, learning to play together in a regional (traditional choro group) and a roda de choro (traditional choro sessions in circle) and building a collective repertoire.
For further details: www.facebook.com/events/173576599911160

London Mandolin Ensemble - Coffee concert at St John's Hyde Park, London, Sunday 10th June 2018

London Mandolin Ensemble will give a coffee concert on Sunday 10th June 2018 at St John's Hyde Park, Hyde Park Crescent, London W2 2OD. The concert starts at 11.30 am, and features contemporary classical music, written for mandolin ensemble, with a programme that reflects places and countries from around the world. Admission free.

Sergio Vacca's monthly technique and ensemble playing course for mandolin & mandola players

Due to unforseen circumstances, the last date for Sergio Vacca's monthly course for mandolin and mandola players for this term (9th June 2.00-4.00 at Westminster Music Library) has been cancelled. Classes will recommence on 15th September, 2.00-4.00., with a further confirmed date of 6th October 2.00-4.00, at WML.
The course is open to mandolin and mandola players at all levels, and covers essential plucked string techniques as well as ensemble playing practice. For further information and to register for the autumn term, email: [email protected]

Carlo Aonzo Mandolin Workshop, Milwaukee USA, 7th - 10th June 2018

Carlo Aonzo's Mandolin Workshop 2018 will be held June 7-10, 2018 in Milwaukee, USA. The workshop will be hosted by the University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee (UWM) and the whole workshop will be held on UWM's campus.
The music this year will include:

Bach - Art of the Fugue #1 & #2;
Mozart - K525 Serenata, 1st movement (Eine Kleine Nachtmusik);
Victor Kioulaphides - Rondo Galante, based on a theme of Ignaz Pleyel;
Gianluca Fortino - Suite Immaginaria;
Raffaele Calace - Intermezzo, Op. 146

Further details via this link: www.carloaonzomandolinschool.com/the-workshop/

VAMÖ Mandolin and Guitar Seminar, Austria, 30th May - 3rd June 2018

The 37th VAMÖ seminar for mandolin and guitar offers a great atmosphere and lots of music. No matter what level you are, whether you make music by yourself or in a group, whether you prefer classical, folk or popular music, there is something for everyone, ane everyone can take part.

A team of outstanding teachers will help participants to polish their skills. Both individual and group teaching are available, and there is the opportunity to play in ensembles and the participants orchestra. The closing date for applications is 23rd May 2018. Further details here: www.facebook.com/VAMÖ-Mandolinen-und-Gitarrenseminar-1121757747843119/?notif_id=1522830478931340&notif_t=page_invite&ref=notif

New American Mandolin Ensemble & London Mandolin Ensemble in concert, Sunday 27th May, 7.30 pm

As part of their UK tour, the New American Mandolin Ensemble (NAME) will join LME in London for a concert on Sunday 27th May at 7.30 pm. The programme features contemporary works for mandolin and guitar - it should be a great concert! The venue is St. Ethelberga's, 78 Bishopsgate, London EC2N 4AG. Look forward to seeing you there.

The BDZ Eurofestival Zupfmusik, Bruchsal, Germany, 10th - 13th May 2018

The BDZ Eurofestival Zupfmusik is the world's largest festival of its kind for plucked string players. Amateurs and professionals, orchestras and chamber music ensembles, young people, adults, children and seniors, top orchestras from all parts of Germany and around the world, all meet in Bruchsal for four days to celebrate all things plucked string. There are concerts, indoor and outdoor stages, and exhibitions by instrument makers and music publishers too.
For more information on this event: www.eurofestival-zupfmusik.de/node/83

Avi Avital and the BBC Symphony Orchestra at The Barbican, London, Wednesday 9th May 2018

Mandolinist Avi Avital joins the BBC Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Daniele Rustioni, to perform Mohammed Fairouz's Mancolin Concerto at the Barbican, London on Wednesday 9th May 2018, 7.30 pm. Fairouz is an American composer who studied with György Ligeti, Gunter Schuller and Richard Danielpour. The programme includes Ravel's Sheherazade Overture, the UK premiere of Musica Notturna by Giorgio Federico Ghedini and Avner Dorman's Mandolin Concerto as well as Respigi's Pines of Rome.
Booking details via this link: www.bbc.co.uk/events/ebpc8gGyörgy LigetiGyörgy Ligeti

Competition for Grade 1 & 2 secondary school students, Bergamo, Italy, 6th - 8th April 2018

Last call for the 3rd EUROPEAN COMPETITION ESTUDIANTINA BERGAMASCA. Registration closes on 17th March. The competition, which will be in Bergamo (IT) on 6-7-8 April 2018, is open to young musicians aged 11 to 18 (born from 1999 to 2006) and includes final prizes like a Calace mandolin, a Hanika guitar, concerts, registration sessions and scholarships for a total of € 2400. Allowed instruments (solo or ensemble): Mandolin, Mandola, Mandocello, Guitar, Bandurria, Lute, Harp, Double Bass. Further details via the link: www.estudiantinabergamo.it

The Spencer Collection, Royal Academy of Music Museum, London, until 31st March 2018

A current exhibition at The Royal Academy of Music Museum - 'The Spencer Collection: A Musical Banquet'. The exhibition covers the development of plucked string instruments and early guitars, with some wonderful examples on display... It runs until March 2018 at the RAM in Marylebone Road, and entry is free. More info here:
http://www.ram.ac.uk/museum/exhibition/spencer-collection

BMG Festival, Worthing, West Sussex, 2nd - 4th March 2018

The biennial BMG Festival takes place on 2nd - 4th March 2018 in Worthing, East Sussex. The weekend includes workshops, concerts and competitions, and is hosted by The Fretful Federation. Details via the link: www.banjomandolinguitar.org/rally.htm

1st Mediterranean Mandolin and Guitar Accademia, Corsica, 25th February - 4th March 2018

The first Mediterranean Mandolin and Guitar Accademia, directed by Maestro Carlo Aonzo, with mandolinist and composer Vincent Beer-Demander and guitarist Sandrine Luigi, takes place in Corsica, France, from 25th February to 4th March 2018. The course is open to mandolin, mandola, mandocello and guitar players. Further details and registration via this link: www.accademiamandolino.com/eng-corse

Winter Workshop for Mandolin with Keith Harris, St Augustine, Florida, USA, 1st - 5th February 2018

Further details for this workshop can be found via the following link:
www.guitarfoundation.org/blogpost/754189/287486/Mandolin-and-Guitar-Chamber-Music-Workshop-with-Keith-Harris#.WlhXeTxcmE4.mailto

Gary Ryan at Imperial College, London, Thursday 1st February 2018

Virtuoso guitarist Gary Ryan returns to perform a lunchtime recital on Thursday 1st February at the Read Theatre, Level 5 Sherfield Building, Imperial College, South Kensington, London at 1.00 - 1.45 pm.

Simon Mayor Mandolin Weekend, Halsway Manor Somerset, 26th - 28th January 2018

The overwhelming success of Simon’s ‘Halsway Manor Mandolin Workshop Weekend’ over the last two years prompted immediate requests for this return visit. The workshop takes place from 26th - 28th January at Halsway Manor in Somerset.
Simon will cover all right & left hand techniques including position shifting, tremolo, decoration, tone production & more. There will also be the opportunity to accompany songs with singers from Hilary James’ Voice Workshop which runs alongside this event. Mandolinists, mandola players, mandocellists and mandobassists are all invited to this group experience involving some ensemble playing (with easy parts to follow).
Booking via Halsway Manor halswaymanor.org.uk/event/mandolin-weekend/

II Winter Edition of the International Mandolin & Guitar Accademia, Sorrento, Italy, 3rd - 7th January 2018

Registration is now open for the II Winter Edition of the Accademia, with Director Carlo Aonzo, which will be held from 3rd to 7th January 2018 at Villa Crawford, Sant'Agnello di Sorrento (NA), Italy. The course offers individual lessons, ensemble playing, orchestral works, workshops and concerts, and is suitable for participants of every level: musicians, conservatoire students, professionals, teachers, soloists and concert artists who want to widen their repertoire, and for complete novices looking for the first approach to the instrument.
www.accademiamandolino.com/sorrento-2018

Alon Sariel with Concerto Foscari - Telemandolin Album Launch

To mark the 250th anniversary of the death of Georg Philipp Telemann, mandolinist Alon Sariel, with ensemble Concerto Foscari, presents a diverse compilation of remarkable works by the great German composer, playing repertoire that has never been heard before in this musical form.
The album, Telemandolin, was released June 2017 on Berlin Classics - here's a link to one of the tracks:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=zGPvilM2umk&list=PLQt6ev5eI6q_g1jgh2vMB9LsgNbjK1mYl&index=3
The CD is on sale via this link: www.prego-shop.de/sariel-alon-telemandolin-cd

London Choro Workshop on 16th December 2017

The last in this years season of Choro workshops by TransversArte and Clube do Choro UK, with Cléa Thomasset & Jonathan Preiss, will take place on Saturday 16/12/17 15.00-18.00.
Open to all instruments, the workshops are a great opportunity for intermediate amateur players to professional musicians, willing to improve their Choro playing, or simply discover the interpretation of this genuine Brazilian instrumental music genre.
The courses cover:
- the different styles constitutive of the Brazilian musical genre called choro (maxixe, polca, scottish, samba...) and its original language
- discovering choro's historical context and great composers
- learning to play together in a regional (traditional choro group) and a roda de choro (traditional choro sessions in circle)
- building a collective repertoire
Location: Latin American House, 10 Kingsgate Place, London NW6 4TA
Fees: Block booking - 5 sessions: £110 standard, £90 music student. Pay-as-you-go - 1 session: £25/20 early bird, £30/25 regular
For bookings, e-mail [email protected]

Chris Thile and Brad Mehldau at the Barbican, London, 12th November 2017

The only UK concert from an unconventionally brilliant duo, following the acclaimed released of their recent Nonesuch album. Founder member of the Punch Brothers, mandolin virtuoso Chris Thile transcends his bluegrass roots, creating musical fireworks with Brad Mehldau, the most influential jazz pianist of his generation. The concert, part of the London Jazz Festival, takes place on Sunday 12th November, 7.30 pm at the Barbican, London.
efglondonjazzfestival.org.uk/events/chris-thile-brad-mehldau

Simon Mayor - Mandolin Retreat, Kenwood Hall Hotel, Sheffield, 3rd - 5th November 2017

After a successful course last year, Simon Mayor will be holding a second Mandolin Retreat, which includes a public concert with Hilary James. The Retreat takes place from 3rd - 5th November at Kenwood Hall Hotel, Sheffield.
During the course Simon will teach using tunes, discussing matters of technique as they crop up. The course will cover basic right and left hand positions, tremolo, position shifts, playing in closed positions, use of the plectrum and tone production, improvisation, and much more.
The course is open to players of any level, but it does help if you have a reasonable knowledge of how to read either mandolin tablature or standard music notation.
For more info, and booking details: mandolin.co.uk/retreat

CMSA Convention, Milwaukee, USA, 25th - 29th October 2017

The annual convention held by the Classical Mandolin Society of America takes place at the Intercontinental Hotel in downtown Milwaukee, WI, and features guest artists Julien Martineau and Alon Sariel, along with composer-in-residence Victor Kioulaphides and Dr. Jim Bates conducting.
Masterclasses and pre-convention activity are planned, along with music from the Don Stiernberg Trio, Julien Martineau and Rene Izquierdo, Alon Sariel and Elina Chekan, the Milwaukee duo of Mischa Litvin (domra) and Stas Venglevski (accordion) and the Milwaukee Mandolin Orchestra, the convention hosts. At the Saturday evening concert, the convention’s 150+ member En Masse Orchestra will perform music composed by Victor Kioulaphides.
For more info and to register: classicalmandolinsociety.org/2017-cmsa-convention/

3rd Bluegrass / Oldtime Mandolin Workshop, South Petherton, Somerset, 30th Sept - 1st Oct 2017

During this course Jesper Rübner-Petersen will introduce participants to playing Bluegrass/Oldtime mandolin. Musical examples will be drawn from standard tunes of various levels of difficulty, giving players a broad overview of these genres. Both solo playing as well as accompaniment will be explored during the course, allowing participants to learn new techniques and develop and refine their existing playing skills.

Exercises for improvisation and short forays into music theory will round off the course material. In addition to the principal themes of Bluegrass and Oldtime, individual examples taken from swing, Blues and/or New Acoustic Music may also be included in the course.

Participants will be split into small, individual groups at various points in the programme enabling players to alternate between soloing and accompaniment so they can fully explore the tunes and exercises.

The course is limited to 16 participants. For further information: jrpmandolin.com/workshops.htm

The Benslow Mandolin Course, Hitchin, Herts. 1st - 3rd September 2017

STANDARD: LOWER/UPPER INTERMEDIATE, ADVANCED
Matt Norman returns with this relaxed, fun weekend at Benslow Music Trust, focusing on the mandolin and mandolin family - mandolas, mandocello, bouzouki etc. The weekend will include masterclasses on technique, the opportunity to play in small ensembles and as a big group. There will also be interesting information on the history of the mandolin and a performance given by Matt Norman. He is a mandolinist in folk and classical styles as well as being an experienced teacher, workshop leader and conductor. He has a relaxed teaching style. This course will suit anyone who can already play the mandolin, and other mandolin family instruments are welcome. You will be expected to read music, which will be sent out in advance.
www.benslowmusic.org/index.asp?PageID=1791

International Italian Mandolin & Guitar Accademia, Acqui Terme, Italy, 20th - 27th August 2017

This year the annual Summer camp of the International Mandolin & Guitar Accademia will take place again in Acqui Terme (AL), Italy, 20-27 August 2017, at the Hotel La Meridiana (the former Seminario Vescovile Maggiore), under the direction of Maestro Carlo Aonzo.
Along with excellent tuition and music, you will be in a wonderful region rich in history, traditions, amazing landscapes, SPA baths and endless vineyards.
Subscribe to the mailling list for important news and updates regarding this edition - registration now open. For further info: www.accademiamandolino.com/

Het Consort at the Edinburgh Festival, 23rd, 24th & 25th August 2017

On their first visit to the Fringe, the well-known Dutch Mandolin Chamber Orchestra Het Consort will give two concerts with highlights of their repertoire. Programmed are, amongst others, the famous Concerto by Vivaldi with Sebastiaan de Grebber and Ferdinand Binnendijk as mandolin soloists, the mesmerizing Autumn Song by Kuwahara, sensual Tangos by Piazzolla and virtuoso Spanish music by Albeniz and De Falla. 'Very good ensemble playing with artistic empathy, well balanced in sound proportion and especially striking in professional control' (Zwolle Courant). 'Ready for the large podia' (Leids Dagblad).
The concerts take place at St Andrew's and St George's West, George Street, Edinburgh on August 23rd at 7.30 pm, and August 25th at 2.30 pm.
On 24th August Het Concert also give a 1.00 pm performance in The Great Hall of Edinburgh Castle. Further details here:
tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on#q=%22Het%20Consort%22

Second International Mandolin Campus, Naples, 3rd - 10th August 2017

The second International Mandolin Campus, organised by Accademia Mandolinistica Napoletana, takes place in Naples from 3rd - 10th August 2017. For further information and bookings, e-mail: [email protected]

Carlo Aonzo and LME in concert, Crown Court Church of Scotland, London, Saturday 5th August 2017

Here's a special date for your diaries! We're delighted to announce that mandolin virtuoso Carlo Aonzo will visit London this summer. On Saturday 5th August, as well as giving a pre-concert workshop for plucked string players, Carlo will join us at Crown Court Church of Scotland, Covent Garden, for what promises to be a very special evening of mandolin music.
LME's guest ensemble leader for the evening will be mandolinist Frances Taylor, who has arranged two of the Baroque pieces that form part of our programme. Our conductor is James Young.
For further information and workshop registration, do send us an e-mail. Admission to the evening concert is free, with a retiring collection. We very much hope you can join us.
[email protected]k

TransversArte & Clube do Choro UK monthly workshop, Saturday 15th July 2017

The next monthly TransversArte & Clube do Choro UK workshop takes place on Saturday 15th July, 3.00-6.00 pm at Latin American House, 10 Kingsgate Place, London NW6 4TA, under the direction of Cléa Thomasset & Jonathan Preiss. To book, e-mail [email protected]
Here's a workshop taster... www.youtube.com/watch?v=xQd_hxORO5I

'Curso Internacional de Plectro y Guitarra 'Pedro Chamorro', Madrid, 29th June - 5th July 2017

The Curso Internacional de Plectro y Guitarra 'Pedro Chamorro' takes place in Madrid from 29th June - 5th July. The classes consist of individual and group sessions, including Early Music using instruments such as the medieval bandurria and laud, as well as improvisation and orchestral sessions using modern instruments. There will also be an opportunity to participate in masterclasses with master guitarist Leo Brouwer. Tutors include Leo Brouwer, Pedro Chamorro, Isabel Ma Abarzuza, Pedro Mateo Gonzalez, Fernando Bustamente, Mari Carmen Simon, Patricia Calcerrada and Francisco J. Garcia. For more information e-mail [email protected]. The event brochure with details can be found here:
drive.google.com/file/d/0B1BLoyv55yBHX3lTd1E0STNaY0k/edit

Sierra Hull at Bush Hall, Shepherds Bush, London, Monday 26th June 2017

Sierra Hull has been recognized from age 11 as a virtuoso mandolin-player, astonishing audiences and fellow-musicians alike. Now a seasoned touring musician nearing her mid-20s,
Hull has delivered her most inspired, accomplished, and mature recorded work to date.
Her new album, Weighted Mind, is a landmark achievement in her career, and is produced by Béla Fleck.
She appears at Bush Hall, Shepherds Bush, London on Monday 26th June at 7.30 pm. For ticket details: www.bushhallmusic.co.uk/events/2017-06-26-bush-hall

Avital meets Avital, Wigmore Hall, London, 10.00 pm Friday 23rd June 2017

Wigmore Lates presents a dialogue between two artists from different worlds who share a rich musical heritage.
Grammy-nominated classical mandolinist Avi Avital and award-winning jazz bassist, composer and oud player Omer Avital draw from Moroccan and North African sounds, folk and classical traditions, Israeli harmonies and Mediterranean rhythms to create a musical melting pot filled with the finesse of chamber music and raw emotional energy of jazz. With Yonothan Avishai on piano and Itamar Doari percussion.
Booking via this link: wigmore-hall.org.uk/whats-on/avi-avital-omer-avital-yonathan-avishai-itamar-doari-201706232200

TransversArte & Clube do Choro UK monthly workshop, Saturday 17th June 2017

The next monthly TransversArte & Clube do Choro UK workshop takes place on Saturday 17th June, 3.00-6.00 pm at Latin American House, 10 Kingsgate Place, London NW6 4TA, under the direction of Cléa Thomasset & Jonathan Preiss.
The workshops cover the different styles of Brazilian choro (maxixe, polca, scottish, samba...) and its original language, choro's historical context and great composers, playing together in a regional (traditional choro group) and a roda de choro (traditional choro sessions in circle), and building a collective repertoire.
Places are limited, and early booking is advised. [email protected]

Mandolin Sisters, Cafe OTO, London E8 3DL, Friday 26th May 2017

Sreeusha and Sireesha are young Carnatic mandolin players popularly known as Mandolin Sisters. The two sisters were encouraged by their parents, and honed their talents on the mandolin. They are the only sisters in India to play carnatic music on mandolin.
Guided first by their father and their earliest guru Vidwan Sri Rudraraju Subbaraju (disciple of Sangeetha Kalanidhi Chembhai Vidhyanatha Bhagavathar and teacher of Sri U.Srinivas) the infant sisters learned and practiced their art. They have also acquired lessons from various vidwans. Their concert takes place on Friday 26th May, 7.30 pm at Cafe OTO, 18-22 Ashwin Street, London E8 3DL. www.cafeoto.co.uk/events/mandolin-sisters/

Gary Ryan lunchtime recital, Imperial College London, Thursday 4th May 2017

Gary Ryan, leading exponent of classical guitar, will perform a lunchtime recital at the Read Theatre, Level 5 Sherfield Building, Imperial College, South Kensington, London at 1.00-2.00 pm on Thursday 4th May 2017.
www3.imperial.ac.uk/newsandeventspggrp/imperialcollege/administration/arts/events/event_9-9-2016-14-17-5

Choro workshop at Latin American House, Kingsgate Place, London NW6, Saturday 22nd April 2017

TransversArte and Clube do Choro UK invite you to their monthly choro workshop on Saturday 22nd April, 15.00-18.00. at Latin American House, 10, Kingsgate Place, London NW6 4TA, with Cléa Thomasset & Jonathan Preiss. The following workshop dates will be 20th May and 17th June.
Open to all instruments, it is a great opportunity for intermediate amateur players to professional musicians willing to improve their Choro playing, or to simply discover the interpretation of this genuine Brazilian instrumental music genre.

Jakob Lindberg at Kings Place Hall 1, London, Saturday 8th April 2017

Jacob Lindberg, whose recordings of Bach are considered definitive, makes a welcome return to the London stage to introduce and perform Bach's Late Lute Works. The concert takes place on Saturday 8th April, 11.30 am at Kings Place Hall 1, and is part of the Kings Place Bach Weekend 2017. The programme includes Bach's Prelude in C minor, BWV 999, Fugue in G minor, BWV 1000, Prelude, Fugue and Allegro in E flat, BWV 998 and Partita in C minor, BWV 997. For further details: www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on/late-lute-works#.WGu1AtSLS9I
Photo: Jakob Lindberg © Mats Lundkvist

Chris Thile at Wigmore Hall, London, Friday 24th March 2017

American mandolinist, singer and songwriter Chris Thile made his name with Grammy Award-winning progressive acoustic music group Nickel Creek before striking out with Punch Brothers and a series of fresh creative projects in the mid-2000s.
Following many years as a guest on the radio show A Prairie Home Companion, Chris succeeds Garrison Keillor as the popular radio show’s host in October 2016. Chris makes a welcome return to Wigmore Hall with a programme drawing on his considerable repertoire of original compositions, as well as contemporary, traditional and classical works. Chris will give a 90' concert on Friday 24th March at 7.30 pm. For bookings:
wigmore-hall.org.uk/whats-on/chris-thile-201703241930

Gary Ryan at the Elgar Room, Royal Albert Hall, London, Friday 10th March 2017

Gary Ryan, one of the world’s leading exponents of classical guitar, will perform a lunchtime recital in the Elgar Room on Friday 17th March, 12.30pm, as part of the Royal Albert Hall's Love Classical Festival.

The British guitarist has performed to international critical acclaim for over twenty years, becoming the first guitarist since John Williams in 1983 to be awarded a Fellowship of the Royal College of Music in 2013 in recognition of his contribution to the instrument.

His celebrated guitar compositions, which are often broadcast on Classic FM, have broadened the instrument’s appeal by combining traditional classical guitar technique with more contemporary guitar styles and a rich variety of musical influences from around the world.

In 2016 Gary Ryan was invited by John Williams to form 6 Hands, a new collaborative guitar trio with the jazz guitarist John Etheridge which will be touring the UK in 2017.
www.royalalberthall.com/tickets/events/2017/gary-ryan-lunchtime-recital/

London Mandolin Ensemble at Westminster Music Library, London, Tuesday 7th March 2017

LME perform an early evening concert on Tuesday 7th March, 6.00-7.00pm at Westminster Music Library, 160 Buckingham Palace Road, London SW1W 9UD. The mixed programme includes Baroque and contemporary concertos for mandolin and guitar as well as Latin American pieces.
Admission is free, but early booking is advised, as seats are limited.
www.westminster.gov.uk/library-opening-hours-and-contact-details#westminster-music-library

Choro workshop with Cléa Thomasset and Jonathan Preiss, London, Saturday 25th February 2017

TransversArte & Clube do Choro UK present a new Choro workshop led by Cléa Thomasset (flute, vocals) and Jonathan Preiss (7-string guitar). Open to all instruments, the workshop will be a great opportunity for all musicians (amateur and professional) to improve their Choro playing or simply discover the interpretation of this genuine Brazilian instrumental music.
The workshop will take place on Saturday 25th February, 3.00-6.00 pm, at Latin American House (Casa Latina), 10 Kingsgate Place, London NW6 4TA.
Further details via this link: www.transversarte.com/what-s-on

The Lute Society Original instruments day: Historic mandolins - a joint meeting with the BMG Federation, The Dutch Church, London, 4th February 2017

The Lute Society will host a joint meeting with the BMG Federation on Saturday 4th February, at the Dutch Church, 7 Austin Friars, London EC2N 2HA. The meeting will focus on historic mandolins, with original instruments from the RCM collection, and private collections. Talks will be given by Paul Sparks, Lars Berglund, Anna Rita Addessi, and Mimmo Peruffo. After the meeting there will be a recital by Davide Rebuffa, Andrea Damiani and Mauro Squillante.
Admission to the meeting is free, with ticket purchase required for the recital, which will end by 6.00pm.
For details of the meeting, and for workshops being held on Sunday 5th February in conjunction with the meeting, contact The Lute Society:
www.lutesociety.org/

Simon Mayor Mandolin Weekend, Halsway Manor, Somerset, 19th - 22nd January 2017

Mandolinists, mandola players, mandocellists and mandobassists are all invited to this group experience involving some ensemble playing. The workshop will cover all right & left hand techniques including position shifting, tremolo, decoration, tone production & more. There will also be the opportunity to accompany songs with singers from Hilary James’ Voice Workshop which runs alongside this event.
For booking and further details: halswaymanor.org.uk/event/mandolin-weekend/

1st Winter Campus of the International Mandolin and Guitar Accademia, Ventimiglia, Italy, 5th - 8th January 2017

Registration is now open for the first Winter Campus of the International Mandolin and Guitar Accademia with Maestro Carlo Aonzo, which takes place 5th - 8th January 2017 in Ventimiglia, Italy.
The course includes a teaching programme for mandolin, mandola, mandocello and classical guitar, and will be taught in Italian, English and German.
For further details: http://www.accademiamandolino.com/

Hilary James and Friends at The Pheasantry, London, 21st December 2016

Hilary James, together with Simon Mayor and Richard Collins, performs blues and music from the Ella Fitzgerald, Jo Stafford and Dina Washington songbooks at The Pheasantry, 152 Kings Road, London SW3 4UT on Wednesday 21st December from 8.30 pm. Further information and booking here: www.pizzaexpresslive.com/whats-on/hilary-james-and-friends

TransversArte & Clube do Choro UK Choro workshop, Saturday 17th December 2016

A new Choro workshop, lead by Cléa Thomasset (flute, vocals) and Jonathan Preiss (7-string guitar), takes place on Saturday 17th December, 3.00-6.00 pm at Book & Kitchen, a very special book shop, restaurant and cultural venue, in the heart of Notting Hill's vibrant neighbourhood.

Open to all instruments, this will be a great opportunity for all musicians (amateur and professional) willing to improve their Choro playing, or simply discover the interpretation of this genuine Brazilian instrumental music.

The workshop fee is £25, and booking is advised, as there will be a limited number of students.
Send an email to Cléa Thomasset at [email protected], to secure your space, and to receive scores and audio links of the tunes.

Mahan Esfahani & Avi Avital at Kings Place, London, Thursday 15th December 2016

As part of the 2016 'Baroque Unwrapped' series at Kings Place, harsichordist Mahan Esfahani and mandolinist Avi Avital join forces to explore the Baroque repertoire for both instruments. The programme includes sonatas and concertos from Scarlatti and Vivaldi, a transcription of Bach's Sonata in G BWV 1019 for violin and harpsichord, and solo keyboard pieces by Couperin.
http://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on-book-tickets/music/mahan-esfahani-avi-avital-scarlatti-vivaldi-bach-couperin#.VYmJlxtViko

Sam Cave - Guitar: The Resonance of Now, Handel's Music Room, London, Sunday 27th November 2016

On the day of Hendrix’s 74th birthday, classical guitarist Sam Cave explores the resonances of the guitar in a programme of contemporary works that pushes the guitar to its limits and presents techniques that Hendrix would ‘totally dig.’
The concert takes place on Sunday 27th November, 2.00pm at Handel's Music Room, 23-25 Brook Street, London W.1. Bookings and further details here: handelhendrix.org/whats-on/events/guitar-resonance-now/

Royal Greenwich International Early Music Festival and Exhibition, Blackheath Halls,
Thursday 10th - Saturday 12th November 2016

The Early Music Festival takes place this year Thursday 10th to Saturday 12th November, at Blackheath Halls, 23 Lee Road, London SE3 9RQ. The Festival holds the world's largest early music exhibition, with around 100 exhibitors, as well as masterclasses, workshops, maker's demonstration recitals and concerts. Tickets and details here:
www.earlymusicshop.com/More/Greenwich_International_Early_Music_Festival.aspx

Classical Mandolin Society of America Convention 2016 in Philadelphia, 2nd - 6th November 2016

The CMSA Convention 2016 takes place this year in Philadelphia, Valley Forge, PA, from 2nd-6th November, with optional pre-convention workshops taking place on 1st and 2nd November.
The annual convention is a chance for members to meet, exchange ideas, and perform, as well as to learn from and be inspired by leading professionals, and is held each fall in a different location in North America.
Activities are included for all levels of players, and include participation in the En Masse Orchestra, 'open mic' concerts and informal jam and sight-reading sessions after hours. The featured performers this year are Modern Mandolin Quartet, Neil Gladd is composer in residence, and Dr Jim Bates conducts the En Masse orchestra.
For further info: https://classicalmandolinsociety.org/events/#!event/2016/11/2/2016-cmsa-convention

London Mandolin Ensemble visit the V&A to view mandolins in the V&A Collection, 1st November 2016

The Sheils Presents...Handel & Hendrix Studio, London, 26th October 2016

Folk group, The Shiels present an energetic and eclectic show with music from diverse influences. Original songs alongside covers of music by Jimi Hendrix, Bessie Smith and Bob Dylan as well as jigs, reels and ballads from Ireland and beyond. Performed using guitars, mandolins, ukuleles and bodharans.
The concert takes place at Handel & Hendrix Studio, 23-25 Brook Street, London W.1. on Wednesday 26th October, 6.30.pm. For details and booking: https://handelhendrix.org/whats-on/events/the-shiels-presents/

Talk on Venezuelan Music and the Contemporary Mandolin by Jorge Torres, at Bolivar Hall, Grafton Way, London, 12th October 2016

The mandolin, a traditionally European instrument, was introduced to traditional Latin American music in countries such as Venezuela and Brazil, forming part of the typical sound of their musical genres. A little over ten years ago, the Brazilian mandolin player, Hamilton de Holanda asked his luthier to add an extra set of strings to the instrument to reach a lower register, making it a ten string mandolin which would enable it to have a more guitaristic quality. Jorge Torres has become one of the pioneers in developing whole musical repertoires for the instrument.

His talk takes place on Wednesday 12th October at 6.00 pm, at Bolivar Hall, 54 Grafton Way, London W1T 5DL. Entry is free.

Simon Mayor - Mandolin Retreat and Concert at Kenwood Hall Hotel, Sheffield, 7th - 9th October 2016

Simon Mayor is holding a Mandolin Retreat (including a public concert with Hilary James) from 7th - 9th October at Kenwood Hall Hotel, Sheffield.
During the course Simon will teach using tunes, discussing matters of technique as they crop up. The course will cover basic right and left hand positions, tremolo, position shifts, playing in closed positions, use of the plectrum and tone production, improvisation, and much more.
For more info, and booking details: http://mandolin.co.uk/retreat/

Craig Ogden with the Spanish Symphony Orchestra, at Cadogan Hall, London, Tuesday 4th October 2016

The brilliant guitarist Craig Ogden joins the Spanish Symphony Orchestra for Rodrigo's beautiful Concierto de Aranjuez, framed by works by Giménez and Falla. Mendelssohn's 'Italian' Symphony...Tuesday 4th October, 7.30 pm at Cadogan Hall. For further information and bookings, see the link below:
www.cadoganhall.com/event/zios1617-spanish-symphony-orchestra/

The 2nd Bluegrass & Oldtime Mandolin workshop with Jesper Rübner-Petersen, 1st - 2nd October 2016 in South Petherton, Somerset

The 2nd Bluegrass & Oldtime Mandolin workshop with Jesper Rübner-Petersen, takes place 1st - 2nd October 2016 in South Petherton, Somerset. During this course participants will be introduced to playing bluegrass/oldtime mandolin. Musical examples will be drawn from standard tunes of various levels of difficulty, giving players a broad overview of these genres. Both solo playing as well as accompaniment will be explored during the course, allowing participants to learn new techniques and develop and refine their existing playing skills.

Exercises for improvisation and short forays into music theory will round off the course material. In addition to the principal themes of bluegrass and oldtime, individual examples taken from swing, jazz and/or Irish folk music may also be included in the course.
Participants will be split into small, individual groups at various points in the programme enabling players to alternate between soloing and accompaniment so they can fully explore the tunes and exercises.

The course is limited to 16 participants to ensure that all players receive personal instruction and supervision. Further details from organiser Will Helton - e-mail [email protected]

LME takes part in the BBC's Virtual Orchestra as part of the Last Night of the Proms, Saturday 10th September 2016

Over 1200 groups/players across the UK - including LME - have united to form the BBC's first ever Virtual Orchestra, under conductor Marin Alsop. The final film will be lighting up screens on Saturday 10th September, in a world premiere.

The film will be available from 3.00pm on Saturday at www.bbc.co.uk/getplaying and on iPlayer. It will also be screened at Proms in the Parks across the UK, as part of BBC Two's coverage of the Last Night of The Proms.

BBC Four will also be showing the film on Sunday 18th September in 'The Last Night of the Proms from around the UK' at 7.30pm. See if you can spot us!!

The Benslow Mandolin Course, 9th - 11th September 2016 in Hitchin, Herts

The Benslow Mandolin Course takes place 9th - 11th September at Benslow Music, Benslow Lane, Hitchin, Herts SG4 9RB.
This will be a relaxed, fun weekend looking at one of the more unusual stringed instruments. The weekend will include masterclasses on technique, the opportunity to play in small ensembles and as a big group. There will also be interesting information on the history of the mandolin and a performance given by your tutor.
The course will be led by Matt Norman, a fine mandolinist in folk and classical styles as well as being an experienced teacher, workshop leader and conductor. Matt has a relaxed teaching style that puts people at their ease whilst getting the best from each player.
This course will suit anyone who can already play the mandolin, other mandolin family instruments are welcome but please mention when booking so suitable music can be provided. It will be necessary to read music, the music will be sent out in advance. Standard: Lower/Upper Intermediate, Advanced. For booking and further info: http://benslowmusic.org/index.asp?PageID=1390

The 45th International Festival of La Rioja, Logroño, Spain, 22nd - 27th August 2016.

The 45th International Festival of Rioja takes place in Logroño, Spain from 22nd - 27th August.
Participants include Duo Pedro Chamorro and Ricardo Gallén, Orchestra dell'Accademia Internazionale di Mandolino under Maestro Carlo Aonzo, New American Mandolin Ensemble from the USA, duo Chitarrone (Vincent Beer-Demander & Grégory Morello), duo Resonance (Natalia Kravets, Yana Povolskikh), Trio Nuestra Herencia and Jesús Alejandro Sánchez Peña from Columbia, duo Spiral (Ascacíbar Rosana Alfaro & Maria Bastida April).
Further information:http://www.plectrorioja.com/wordpress/

11th International Academy of Italian Mandolin and Guitar, Acqui Terme, Italy, 14th - 21st August 2016

Registration is now open for this year's International Italian Mandolin and Guitar Academy, which takes place in Acqui Terme, Italy, between 14th - 21st August. Founded by Maestro Carlo Aonzo, the Academy is now in its 11th year.
Teachers include: Carlo Aonzo, Steffan Trekel, Sabine Spath, Piero Lisci (Classical Mandolin), Michele de Martino (traditional Neapolitan Mandolin) Michael Troster, Katsumi Nagaoka, Roberto Margaritella (Classical Guitar).
Further details here: http://www.accademiamandolino.com/Italiano/corsi.html

First International Mandolin Campus in Naples, 3rd - 10th August 2016

The first International Mandolin Campus takes place in Naples from 3rd - 10th August 2016. For further information and bookings, e-mail: casadelmandolinonapoli@gmail.com

London Mandolin Ensemble, Monday 1st August, 16.30-18.30 on BBC Radio 3's 'In Tune'.

LME has been chosen by the BBC as one of ten music groups to be featured on Radio 3 during the week of 1st August, as part of the BBC 'Get Playing' campaign. Our recording of 'Ballad of Ouri' by Greek composer Manos Hadjidakis will be broadcast nationally on BBC Radio 3's 'In Tune' programme on Monday 1st August, 16.30 - 18.30. The programme is also available on BBC iPlayer after broadcast.

New York International Mandolin Festival, 15th - 17th July 2016

The inaugural New York International Mandolin Festival takes place 15th - 17th July 2016 at Lenox Hill Neighbourhood House, 331 E 70th St, NY 10021. The Festival is hosted by the New York Mandolin Ensemble - further details via this link: http://www.nymandofest.org/

Avi Avital with Ksenija Sidorova and Itmar Doari at St George's Bristol, Saturday 9th July 2016

Avi Avital, with Ksenija Sidorova and Itamar Doari, in concert on Saturday 9th July 7.30pm at St. George's Bristol, Great George Street, Bristol BS1 5RR. You can find out more about the show via this link:
http://www.stgeorgesbristol.co.uk/event/avi-avital-between-worlds/

Alon Sariel at the Midsummer Music Chamber Music Festival, Latimer, Bucks, 24th - 26th June 2016

Mandolin virtuoso Alon Sariel visits the UK in June this year to take part in the Midsummer Music Chamber Music Festival from 24th - 26th June at St Mary Magdalene Church, Latimer, Bucks.
He will perform in four concerts, playing Dowland on the lute, the Bach Chaconne from Partita
No. 2 on mandolin, and continuo on lute for Bach Brandenburg Concertos Nos. 3 & 6.
Further information and tickets for the festival via this link:
http://www.midsummermusic.org.uk/festival/2016.html

Yaniv d'Or, Ensemble NAYA with Jacob Reuven, Barrocade, Amit Teifenbrunn at Wigmore Hall, Sunday 26th June 2016

Countertenor Yaniv d'Or, Ensemble NAYA with Israeli classical mandolinist Jacob Reuven, Barrocade Ensemble and gambist Amit Tiefenbrunn join forces with a collection of music from the South in a project entitled Latino Ladino.
Mesmerising voices and instruments explore the distinct musical worlds of the Spanish, Jewish and South American traditions in an entirely original combination of these distantly related musical legacies.
The concert takes place on Sunday 26th June at Wigmore Hall, 7.30pm.
https://wigmore-hall.org.uk/whats-on/latino-ladino-201606261930

The British BMG Federation Summer School Weekend at Halsway Manor, 24th - 26th June 2016

The BMG Summer School takes places this year on 24th-26th June at Halsway Manor in Somerset. There are three courses - Baroque Mandolin with Frances Taylor, Classic Finger-style 5-string Banjo with Chris Sands and 'Let’s Build a Bluegrass Band for Mixed Instruments' with Mike Pryor and Richard Holland. For booking and further info go to:
http://banjomandolinguitar.org/summer%20school.htm

Residential Workshops with Simon Mayor and Hilary James, 25th - 27th March 2016

The 2016 mandolin and vocal workshops with Simon Mayor and Hilary James will take place at Halsway Manor in Somerset. Open to mandolinists of all abilities, the 2015 workshops were a really enjoyable and well attended event. For booking details contact Halsway Manor:
http://www.halswaymanor.org.uk/portal/alias__Halsway/lang__en/tabid__4505/default.aspx

The Nash Ensemble with Craig Ogden at Wigmore Hall, Tuesday 22nd March 2016

The Nash Ensemble, with Henning Kraggerud, Lawrence Power and Craig Ogden in concert at Wigmore Hall on Tuesday 22nd March at 8.30pm, with a programme of Puccini, Paganini and Mendelssohn. There will also be an introductory pre-concert talk which takes place at 6.30.
Further details and bookings from Wigmore Hall:
https://wigmore-hall.org.uk/whats-on/puccini-paganini-and-mendelssohn-201603222030

The Banjo Mandolin & Guitar Festival, 11th - 13th March 2016

The biennial BMG Festival (formerly known as the Rally) takes place between 11th - 13th March 2016 at Kelvinside Academy, Glasgow, and is organised by the Lanarkshire Guitar and Mandolin Association. For further details of Festival events, contact: http://www.banjomandolinguitar.org/rally.htm

Craig Ogden & Gerard McChrystal in Concert 5th March and Masterclasses on 6th March 2016

World renowned musicians, Craig Ogden and Gerard McCrystal, come together to perform this year’s professional concert at the Big Guitar Festival, including works by Irish composer, Ciaran Farrell. The concert takes place Saturday 5th March at 8.00pm, Newbury Methodist Church, Northbrook Street, Newbury, Berks.

In addition there is an opportunity for saxophonists and guitarists to perform to Gerard or Craig in two separate public masterclasses on Sunday 6th March, 10.00-1.00 at Hogan Music, Bartholomew Street, Newbury.
For further information: http://stevechristmasguitar.wix.com/guitarfestival#!events/cee5

Avi Avital, Mahan Esfahani & Sean Shibe, Wigmore Hall, 18th February 2016

Avi Avital - mandolin, Mahan Esfahani -harpsichord, Sean Shibe - guitar, perform a programme of works by Vivaldi, Scarlatti, Kuwahara, Bach, Mel Powell and Paul Ben-Haim on Thursday 18th February, 7.30 pm at Wigmore Hall. Futher details and booking via this link:
https://wigmore-hall.org.uk/whats-on/vivaldi-scarlatti-kuwahara-and-more-201602181930

Guitar Masterclass with Craig Ogden, 22nd - 24th January 2016

A masterclass opportunity to study with one of the best classical guitarists of our generation at Hawkwood College, Stroud, Glos. This enjoyable, intense weekend study course is suitable for experienced players and advanced students with a minimum skill level of Grade 8 (guitar). There will be ensemble work as well as masterclass tutorials. Contact Hawkwood College for further details:
http://www.hawkwoodcollege.co.uk/courses-and-events/arts/guitar-masterclass---craig-ogden

Avi Avital at the Sam Wanamaker Theatre 23rd November 2015

Avi Avital, together with accordionist Ksenija Sidorova and percussionist Itamar Doari, will perform at the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse, Shakespeare's Globe on Monday 23rd November at 7.30pm. The programme is based on his album 'Between Worlds', and he will perform works by
de Falla, Bartók, Villa Lobos, Bach, Tsintsadze and Budashkin alongside traditional music
from Turkey and Bulgaria.
Details and booking here:http://www.shakespearesglobe.com/theatre/whats-on/concerts-by-candlelight/avi-avital-between-worlds

Simon Mayor and Hilary James, Friday 20th November 2015

As part of Brunel University's lunchtime concert series, Simon Mayor and Hilary James will give a concert on Friday 20th November from 1.10 - 1.50 pm at the Beldam Restaurant, Ground Floor, Eastern Gateway Building, Kingston Lane, Uxbridge UB8 3PH. Admission is free.

Greenwich International Early Music Festival, 12th - 14th November 2015

The Royal Greenwich International Early Music Festival takes place this year 12th - 14th November, at the Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich, London SE10 9NN. It is the world's largest early music exhibition, with a wide cross-section of early instrument makers from around the globe, shops, music publishers, societies, recording companies and early music forums all gathered under one roof.
http://www.earlymusicshop.com/More/Greenwich_International_Early_Music_Festival.aspx

Classical Mandolin Society of America Convention, 13th - 18th October 2015

The Classical Mandolin Society of America (CMSA) Convention takes place this year from 13th - 18th October in Austin, Texas, USA. With a host of workshops, masterclasses and concerts, it is a great annual event, attended by many of our friends from across the pond. Follow the link for more details:
http://classicalmandolinsociety.org/upcoming-convention.asp

Upgrade Mandolin and Guitar Festival, Berlin, 25th - 27th September 2015

Registration is now open for the international Berlin Festival of the mandolin. It provides a unique opportunity for players of all levels to participate in a week-end musical holiday dedicated to the mandolin and guitar. Together with musicians from all over the world, it promotes cultural, musical and social exchange with participants of all ages, and tuition from world class performers and teachers. Further details and registration forms can be found at the website: www.mandolin-upgrade.eu English, Dutch, Italian and German is spoken.

International Italian Mandolin Academy, 16th - 23rd August 2015, Acqui Terme, Italy

Registration is now open for the International Italian Mandolin Academy, directed by Maestro Carlo Aonzo. It provides a unique opportunity for players of all levels to participate in a one-week musical holiday dedicated to the mandolin and guitar. Together with musicians from all over the world, it promotes cultural, musical and social exchange with participants of all ages, and tuition from world class performers and teachers. More details and registration forms can be found at their website: http://www.accademiamandolino.com/

Bluegrass / Oldtime Mandolin Workshop with Jesper Rübner-Petersen, 15th & 16th August 2015, South Petherton, Somerset

During this course Jesper Rübner-Petersen will introduce participants to playing bluegrass/oldtime mandolin. Musical examples will be drawn from standard tunes of various levels of difficulty, giving players a broad overview of these genres. Both solo playing as well as accompaniment will be explored during the course, allowing participants to learn new techniques and develop and refine their existing playing skills.

Exercises for improvisation and short forays into music theory will round off the course material. In addition to the principal themes of bluegrass and oldtime, individual examples taken from swing, jazz and/or Irish folk music may also be included in the course.

Link to Jesper's website here: http://jrpmandolin.com/biography.htm and for further course information contact Will Helton: [email protected]

Avi Avital at Cornbury Park Festival, Oxfordshire, Saturday 8th August 2015

Avi Avital appears at the the Wilderness stage, Cornbury Park Festival, Charlbury, Oxfordshire on Saturday 8th August. He will perform pieces from his album Between Worlds. Further details from the Wilderness Festival.
http://www.wildernessfestival.com/programme/avi-avital/

Punch Brothers at Royal Festival Hall, Saturday 1st August 2015, 7.30pm

The New York City-based quintet is made up of mandolinist Chris Thile, guitarist Chris Eldridge, bassist Paul Kowert, banjoist Noam Pikelny and violinist Gabe Witcher. They perform tracks from their new album The Phosphorescent Blues. Tickets from the Southbank Centre:
http://www.southbankcentre.co.uk/whatson/punch-brothers-90929

Clube do Choro presents Marcelo Andrade at The Forge, 27th July 2015

A choro workshop with Marcelo Andrade takes place on Saturday 25th July 10.00-12.00 at The Forge in Camden Town. Born in Rio de Janeiro, award-winning multi-instrumentalist, singer and songwriter Marcelo Andrade plays saxophone, flute, rabeca, violin, piano and guitar. He has recorded and performed with a variety of artists throughout the UK and Europe main festivals. The workshop is open to string, percussion, wind and brass instruments, and is part of an all day Brazilian activity at The Forge, with an evening event starting at 7.00 pm.
For more info: http://www.forgevenue.org/lapa-in-london/

London Mandolin Ensemble at Crown Court Church, Covent Garden, Saturday 18th July 2015

As part of Crown Court Church's Summer 2015 Early Music Series, London Mandolin Ensemble will give a concert on Saturday 18th July, 7.30pm at Crown Court Church, Russell Street, Covent Garden, London WC2B 5EZ. The mainly Baroque programme will feature the work of Hasse, Sweelinck, Bach, Scarlatti and other composers. Admission is free, with a retiring collection. Crown Court itself has a fascinating history dating back to the 17th century.
http://www.crowncourtchurch.org.uk/music/concerts/

London Mandolin Ensemble Concert Diary for Summer 2015

Classical guitarists Craig Ogden, Gary Ryan & Morgan Buckley at Purcell Room, Queen Elizabeth Hall Wednesday 15th July 2015

Classical guitarists Craig Ogden, Gary Ryan and Morgan Buckley showcase recent masterpieces.
The concert includes the world premieres of three newly commissioned works by contemporary British composers, and takes place on Wednesday 15th July, 7.45pm at the Purcell Room, Royal Festival Hall on London's South Bank. Ticket details here:
http://www.southbankcentre.co.uk/whatson/gary-ryan-craig-ogden-and-mor-91936

Piano Circus at Bush Hall, London, Thursday 2nd July 2015

LME's Music Director, James Young, is a current member of Piano Circus, a contemporary six piano ensemble. Piano Circus celebrates its 25th anniversary and relaunch with a concert on 2nd July, 7.30pm at Bush Hall, London, featuring music for six pianos by Graham Fitkin, Steve Reich, Adrian Sutton and Dave Maric. Tickets and details here: http://www.bushhallmusic.co.uk/…/2-jul-15-piano-circus-25t…/

Caetano Veloso, Gilberto Gil, Hamilton de Holanda Trio & Diogo Nogueira at the Apollo Hammersmith, Wednesday 1st July 2015.

Caetano Veloso and Gilberto Gil will appear in an exclusive London concert – and a very rare reunion of two of Brazil’s most charismatic singers and songwriters - together with Bossa Negra, The Hamilton de Holanda Trio and Diogo Nogueira. Hamilton de Holanda is a bandolim virtuoso, so it promises to be a great night of Brazilian music!
Details here: http://www.eventimapollo.com/events/detail/caetano-veloso-gilberto-gil

Clube do Choro presents Ilessi at The Forge, 27th June 2015

A workshop with Ilessi takes place at The Forge on Saturday 27th June 10.00-12.00am, and is open to string, percussion, brass and wind instruments, as part of Lapa in London at The Forge. She will give an evening performance at 7.00pm.

Ilessi is an acclaimed singer and composer from Rio de Janeiro, and released her first CD in 2009. Celebrities such as Luciana Rabello, Mauricio Carrilho, Rogerio Caetano and Pedro Amorim were part of this project. She is currently working on her second album with compositions from new Brazilian musicians as well as her own.

Further details of the day's events here: http://www.forgevenue.org/lapa-in-london/

London Mandolin Ensemble at The Making Music Marathon for International Music Day, Sunday 21st June 2015

British BMG Federation Summer School 2015, 19th - 21st June 2015

The Summer School takes place this year from 19th to 21st June 2015 at Alston Hall College, Longridge, near Preston, Lancashire PR3 3BP. The tutors are Elias Sibley - banjo, Frances Taylor - baroque mandolin and Nigel Gatherer - Long Ridge Ramblers String Band. Booking details from Membership Secretary Sandra Woodruff at [email protected]

Opal Flutes and London Mandolin Ensemble go Latin, Saturday 6th June 2015

Opal Flutes and guests London Mandolin Ensemble present a concert of Latin American music on Saturday 6th June, 7.30pm at St. Clement's Church, Friern Road, East Dulwich, London SE22 0AY. Its going to be a fun one, with tangos, choro and more! For advance tickets contact www.opalflutes.com

London Saxophone Choir & London Mandolin Quartet, Bach to the Future, Saturday 30th May 2015

London Saxophone Choir and guests London Mandolin Quartet in a concert entitled 'Bach to the Future', featuring the work of J.S. Bach and that of other composers influenced by his work. The concert takes place on Saturday 30th May 7.30pm at Christ Church, Church Street, Esher, Surrey KT19 8QS. Advance tickets from www.londonsaxophonechoir.org.uk

Clube do Choro with Yure Romão at The Forge, Saturday 30th May 2015

As part of Clube do Choro's Lapa in London, Yure Romão will guest at The Forge. He is a 7-string guitar player, singer and songwriter born in Rio de Janeiro. He has studied classical guitar, choro and samba, and will give a morning workshop for string, brass and percussion instruments as well as playing in the evening at 7.00pm. More details from The Forge:
https://uk.patronbase.com/_Forge/Productions/OE/Performances

London Mandolin Ensemble Concert at Westminster Music Library, Thursday 28th May 2015

LME showcases a new programme of Latin American music on Thursday 28th May,
6.00-7.00 pm, at Westminster Music Library, 160 Buckingham Palace Road, London SW1W 9UD. Admission free, but advance booking is recommended, as seats are limited - telephone 020 7642 6200.

London Mandolin Festival, Sunday 17th May 2015

The annual London Mandolin Festival takes place on Sunday 17th May, 5.00-6.30 at St Paul's Church, Covent Garden. The Festival brings together plucked string players from across the UK to form a mass orchestra, and this year presents a Baroque programme, with soloist and conductor Frances Taylor. There will also be a guest performance from the Mandolin Orchestra of Devon. Tickets can be bought by following this link: http://londonmandolinfestival.org.uk/

London Saxophone Choir & London Mandolin Quartet, Bach to the Future, Saturday 9th May 2015

London Saxophone Choir and guests London Mandolin Quartet in a concert entitled 'Bach to the Future', featuring the work of J.S. Bach and that of other composers influenced by his work. The concert takes place on Saturday 9th May 7.30pm at St. Faith, Red Post Hill, North Dulwich, London SE24 9JQ. Advance tickets from www.londonsaxophonechoir.org.uk

Osman Martin at Clube do Choro event, Saturday 25th April 2015

Osman Martins is a multi-instrumentalist and composer who specialises in samba of the suburbs of Rio de Janeiro. On his Cavaquinho he expresses the sounds of choro and samba with incredible versatility and virtuosity. His performances are remarkably popular and acclaimed throughout Europe. In concert on Saturday 25th April, 7.00pm at The Forge, 3-7 Delancey Street, NW1 7NL as part of Clube do Choro's Lapa event. Tickets £10/£8. Details from The Forge:
https://uk.patronbase.com/_Forge/Productions/OC/Performances

Andreas Scholl, Avi Avital, Marco Frezzato, Tiziano Bagnati, Tamar Halperin in concert at Wigmore Hall, Tuesday 7th April 2015

Andreas Scholl (countertenor), Avi Avital (mandolin), Marco Frezzato (cello), Tiziano Bagnati (lute) and Tamar Halperin (harpsichord) will perform a programme of Lanzetti, Vivaldi, Scarlatti, Caldara and Handel in this concert at Wigmore Hall on Tuesday 7th April, 7.30pm.
Further info and tickets from Wigmore Hall: http://wigmore-hall.org.uk/

Karnatic Mandolin Tribute Concert by U. Rajesh, Sunday 29th March 2015

A tribute concert by U. Rajesh in memory of his brother, Karnatic virtuoso U.Srinivas, takes place on Sunday 29th March 6.00pm at The Bhavan, 4a Castletown Road, West Kensington, London
W14 9DP.
U. Rajesh will be accompanied by M Balachandar on mridangam and Balu Raghuraman on violin. Box Office 020 7381 3086/4 or book online at www.bhavan.net

Clube do Choro workshop and Roda with Dois por Quatro Ensemble, 28th March 2015

Clube do Choro hosts a day of Brazilian music on Saturday 28th March at The Forge, 3-7 Delancey Street, London NW1 7NL. A workshop with Dois Por Quatro takes place in the morning, and is suitable for strings, brass and percussion instruments. In the evening there are three events of Brazilian music and dance, starting at 7.00 pm. For further details and booking, e-mail: [email protected] or contact The Forge.
https://uk.patronbase.com/_Forge/Productions/N6/Performances

Craig Ogden Guitar Weekend Masterclass 20th - 22nd March 2015

A masterclass opportunity to study with one of the best classical guitarists of our generation, at Hawkwood College, Stroud, Gloucestershire. An intense weekend study course on classical guitar led by Craig Ogden. Suitable for experienced players and advanced students. There will be ensemble work as well as masterclass tutorials. For details and booking information follow this link:
http://www.hawkwoodcollege.co.uk/courses/Guitar_Masterclass

The Avi Avital Trio, Awards for Young Musicians Fundraising Concert, Sunday 15th February 2015

The Avi Avital Trio (Avi Avital, Ksenija Sidorova and Itamar Doari) will perform in a fundraising concert for the 'Awards for Young Musicians Ambition 1000' campaign, at the home of Sir Vernon and Lady Ellis on Sunday 15th February, 7.30pm. Venue address: QGT, 49 Queen’s Gate Terrace London SW7 5PN. The evening includes a buffet supper and drinks, with a suggested minimum donation of £45.00.
To book tickets: http://www.a-y-m.org/avi-avital-no-boundaries-except-good-taste/

Punch Brothers at Queen Elizabeth Hall, South Bank Thursday 22nd and Sunday 25th January 2015

Punch Brothers, with Chris Thile, in London on Thursday 22nd and Sunday 25th January, 7.30 at the Queen Elizabeth Hall on the South Bank...
http://www.southbankcentre.co.uk/whatson/punch-brothers-87833

Mandolin Workshop with Simon Mayor, 16th - 18th January 2015

A residential workshop with leading mandolinist Simon Mayor takes place at Halsway Manor, Somerset, 16th - 18th January. The mandolin workshops will cover all right and left hand techniques including position shifting, tremolo, decoration, tone production and more. Simon will also introduce improvisation and ensemble playing with some easy parts to follow. Booking details here:
http://www.halswaymanor.org.uk/portal/alias__Halsway/lang__en/tabid__4461/eventid__592/default.aspx

Avi Avital at the Sam Wanamaker Theatre, Shakespeare's Globe, Sunday 7th December 2014

Avi Avital is back in London on Sunday 7th December, 2.30pm at the Sam Wanamaker Theatre, with harpsichordist Mahan Esfahani. The programme includes works by J.S. Bach, Scarlatti, Takamitsu, Vivaldi, Avital. Tickets for the event via this link:
http://www.shakespearesglobe.com/theatre/whats-on/concerts-by-candlelight/avi-avital-and-mahan-esfahani

Hamilton de Holanda at the Barbican, Thursday 20th November 2014

As part of the London Jazz Festival, Brazilian virtuoso Hamilton de Holanda is at the Barbican, with pianist Stefano Bollani, on Thursday 20th November 2014, 7.30pm. Tickets from the Barbican via this link:
http://www.barbican.org.uk/music/event-detail.asp?ID=16398

The Jenny Clark Memorial Concert, Sunday 2nd November 2014

The Jenny Clark Memorial Concert takes place this year on Sunday 2nd November, 11.30am at St John's Hyde Park, Hyde Park Crescent, London W2 2QD. The coffee concert will feature a programme of music from LME's baroque repertoire. Admission free.

Making Music Day at Chestnut Plaza Stage, Westfield Stratford, Saturday 18th October 2014

London Mandolin Ensemble takes part in the Making Music Day - part of the 'Westfield Presents' series - on Saturday 18th October at 3.00 pm, with a 50' set at the Chestnut Plaza Stage, Westfield, Stratford, London. Performances from Making Music member groups will take place between 12.00 - 8.00pm. Admission free.

London Mandolin Ensemble Concert, Thursday 16th October 2014

LME will give an early evening concert of baroque music on Thursday 16th October, 6.00-7.00 pm, at Westminster Music Library, 160 Buckingham Palace Road, London SW1W 9UD, nearest tube station Victoria. The event is free, but you are advised to reserve a place.
E-mail [email protected] or telephone 020 7641 6200 and ask to be put through to Westminster Music Library.

Avi Avital in concert at Wigmore Hall, Thursday 16th October 2014

Virtuoso mandolinist Avi Avital in a solo lunchtime concert at London's Wigmore Hall on Thursday 16th October, 1.00-2.00 pm, with a programme that includes Bach, Sauli, Bloch, Kuwahara and Avital. Ticket details here:http://www.wigmore-hall.org.uk/whats-on/productions/avi-avital-mandolin-36389

Clube do Choro workshop and Roda do Choro, Saturday 30th August 2014

Clube do Choro and Gaio de Lima are hosting a workshop in London this Saturday, 30th August, along with an evening roda event. Henrique Cazes, one of Brazil's best cavaquinho players, will be teaching students to play choro and samba.

The workshop is open to string, brass, wind and percussion players, and all students can
perform at the evening roda. Tickets for the workshop are £15, and can be bought at Eventbrite: http://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/ccuk-strings-workshop-with-henrique-cazes-tickets-12701788391

British BMG Federation Summer School 20th - 22nd June 2014

The British BMG Federation Summer School takes place this year 20th-22nd June at Knuston Hall in Northamptonshire, with tutors Travis Finch, Elias Sibley, Nigel Gatherer, Gaio de Lima, and some great courses. Its a favourite event, and we love the evening jam sessions! Details here: http://www.banjomandolinguitar.org/summer%20school.htm

Moonlight Mandolin Orchestra and London Mandolin Ensemble in concert, Saturday 14th June 2014

A concert of music for plucked strings, from baroque to contemporary, performed by the Moonlight Mandolin Orchestra and London Mandolin Ensemble, takes place on Saturday 14th June, 7.00pm, at Michaelhouse Cafe, St. Michaels Church, Trinity Street, City Centre, Cambridgeshire CB2 1SU.
Ticket details here:
http://www.ents24.com/cambridge-events/michaelhouse-centre/moonlight-mandolin-orchestra-london-mandolin-ensemble/3796990

London Mandolin Festival Concert, Sunday 11th May 2014

This year's concert takes place on Sunday 11th May, 4.30pm at St Sepulchre-without-Newgate, Holborn Viaduct, London EC1A 9DE. The concert will celebrate the 71st British BMG Federation Rally held earlier in the year, with performances by London Mandolin Orchestra, Moonlight Mandolins, London Mandolin Ensemble and the Plucked Ensemble Master Class.
Venue and ticket details can be found here:
http://www.londonmandolinfestival.org.uk/TicketsAndVenue.aspx

Alon Sariel and Orchestra of the City in Concert, Friday 4th April 2014

The Orchestra of the City, in association with outstanding mandolinist Alon Sariel, Gilad Hochman, composer, and the Adele and John Gray Endowment Fund, will be giving the world premiere of Gilad’s brand new Mandolin Concerto Nedudim (“Wanderings”) Fantasia Concertante for Mandolin and String Orchestra.

This is a commission which has been planned since 2012, with the Strauss Op.7 Wind Serenade and Smetana’s Ma Vlast completing the programme.

The concert takes place on Friday April 4th 2014, 19.30 in St. James’, Piccadilly (3 mins from Green Park and Piccadilly Circus).

LME Informal Concert, 10th December 7.30, Oxford Street , W1

An informal concert for members of London Mandolin Ensemble and the Plucked Ensemble Masterclass takes place on Tuesday 10th December, 7.30 at the rehearsal venue in Oxford Street. We will showcase this season's repertoire, along with solo, duo and trio pieces.

Greenwich International Early Music Festival & Exhibition 7th - 9th November 2013

The Greenwich Early Music Festival and Exhibition takes place 7th - 9th November at the Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich, London SE10, hosted by The Early Music Shop, Trinity Laban Conservatoire and the Greenwich Foundation. A great annual event.

International Festival Mandolines de Lunel 29th October to 2nd November 2013

A video about the Festival here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SZDAWngqjQ8

Avi Avital at Kings Place, London Friday 22nd November 2013

Brilliant Israeli virtuoso Avi Avital plays Bach at Kings Place, Friday 22nd November at 7.30.
Not to be missed! Here's the link for booking details: http://www.kingsplace.co.uk/whats-on-book-tickets/music/david-greilsammer-the-geneva-camerata-bach-and-his-family

Chris Thile in London on Friday 8th November 2013

American mandolin virtuoso Chris Thile in concert on Friday 8th November, 7.30pm at LSO St Lukes, Old Street. Details here: http://lso.co.uk/145/Chris-Thile/838#-Overview

Making Music Summer Networking Event 24th July 2013

London Mandolin Ensemble recently joined Making Music, the UK's No.1 organisation for voluntary music. As a member group, we've been invited to perform at the Making Music London Summer Networking Event. It takes place on Wednesday 24th July, from 6.30pm at the Primrose Hill Community Centre, London and our programme includes works by Bach and Scarlatti.
http://www.makingmusic.org.uk/events/all-events/london/london-area-summer-networking-meeting

Announcing the launch of new Plucked Ensemble Master Class in London, starting 4th June 2013

The Plucked Ensemble Master Class (PEMC) has been formed with two main aims:

To offer a friendly atmosphere where players new to ensemble playing could improve their skills and confidence in a group setting.

To provide opportunities for experienced ensemble players that will stretch and challenge them.

We are focused on building on basic musicianship skills. If you attend, expect to improve your skills in reading, creating expression, working with a conductor, making informed fingering choices, and using the most important tool any musician can have - your ear.

The repertoire of the ensemble will be mixed and dynamic, while accommodating all skill levels. You do not need experience reading standard notation to join our sessions but you should be prepared to learn.

Learning the notes is only the first step, attending the sessions will help you learn the music.

Under the direction of Travis Finch, the new group will meet monthly at the LME rehearsal venue in Oxford Street, W1, with the first session scheduled for Tuesday 4th June, 7.30-9.30.pm. See the LME Rehearsals page on this website for future dates.

For registration and further details contact Travis Finch at [email protected]

The British BMG Federation Summer School in Somerset, 21st - 23rd June 2013

**Please note - this course is now fully booked, and has a waiting list in operation**
The British BMG Federation Summer School Weekend takes place this year at Halsway Manor in Somerset. Travis Finch will teach the classical mandolin and guitar ensemble workshop, which will focus on maintaining musicality in an ensemble setting, as well as the use of right and left hand techniques. Details of this and other courses being run during the weekend can be found at: http://www.banjomandolinguitar.org/summer%20school.htm

London Mandolin Festival Concert 2013 on 19th May, 4.30 pm

Rehearsals for the annual London Mandolin Festival concert have begun. The Festival brings together players and groups from London and the South East, and is a highlight of our mandolin year. This year the concert takes place on 19th May 4.30 pm at the Musicians Church, St Sepulchre-without-Newgate, EC1A 2DQ.
London Mandolin Ensemble will make a guest appearance - come along and support us!
Further details at: http://www.londonmandolinfestival.org.uk/

Joseph Brent & Alon Sariel - John Dowland project 'Englishman in New York' concert 1.00-2.00 pm on 4th December 2012

A lunchtime concert in which mandolinists Joseph Brent and Alon Sariel present the lute music of John Dowland arranged for two mandolins. Recorded in 2012 on instruments by Brian Dean, their virtuosic arrangements showcase the beauty and complexity of Dowland's original writing, whilst presenting a fresh take on these early music classics.

The concert takes place at Wesley's Chapel, 49 City Road, London EC1Y 1AU. Further details from (020 7253 2262). Free entrance, suggested donation £10.

Mandolin recital at The Forge, Camden 10.30 am on 2nd December 2012

Alon Sariel, with pianist Maria (Masha) Yulin, will give a mandolin recital, including works from Vivaldi, Hummel, Bloch and Lavry. There will be a guest appearance by Joseph Brent, to preview the John Dowland project 'Englishman in New York'. Tickets: £10 / £8. Tea and coffee included in the ticket price. Further details and tickets: http://www.forgevenue.org/

Masterclass with Alon Sariel

London Mandolin Ensemble will host a masterclass with visiting mandolin virtuoso Alon Sariel.

The masterclass will be held on Saturday 1st December, 2.00 pm, at the LME rehearsal venue in Oxford Street, London W1.

The workshop is effectively an open one-on-one lesson for mandolin, mandola and guitar players, and students are asked to bring along a small piece that they would like to work on. Ensemble music will also be studied and played.

Cost of the workshop: £30. Bookings and further information from: [email protected]