The Limit Does Not Exist: A Gentle Approach to Unconventional Notation and Recorder Techniques in the 20th and 21st Centuries

Since the 1960s, composers have found ways to include some rather unconventional techniques in solo and ensemble repertoire for the recorder. This exploration of tonal and rhythmic expression did not leave the recorder behind. Multiphonics, "prepared" instruments, glissandi, and countless other techniques are as suited to the recorder as they are for other instruments. This workshop will give players a chance to learn the terminology and notation that give us access to some of the standard 20th and 21st century repertoire; we'll study relevant excerpts and learn the techniques that keep us from limiting our scope to only the early repertoire.

This event is open to NAVRS members only; $20.

Established in 1985 by conductor James Greasby, the Chattanooga Bach Choir provides an opportunity for local musicians to perform choral-orchestral masterworks by J.S. Bach, Mozart, Brahms, Fauré, and other composers from the Baroque, Classical, Romantic and Modern eras. The Choir’s repertoire also includes less-frequently performed chamber and a cappella choral works of all periods.

Jody performs as part of Bach's cantata Herr Christ, der einge Gottessohn, BWV 96, in this season opener.

More details coming soon.

Jody directs a virtual playing session hosted by the Washington Recorder Society. Join WRS to participate in this one and all the others (several virtual) throughout the year. 7:00–7:30 pm is "happy hour," with the playing session 7:30–9:00 pm Eastern Time.

One of the largest weeklong workshop in the country, Mountain Collegium caters to singers and other musicians who play recorder, viol, brass, Renaissance reeds, folk instruments, or other early instruments.  Held on the campus of Western Carolina University, the scenic backdrop makes for a memorable and relaxing week of music making.

Such Nonsense!
While unraveling the text and music from the Medieval and Renaissance periods might result in apparent nonsense, the truth of the matter is that hidden messages and meanings were everywhere.  Sometimes satirical, sometimes laudatory, but oftentimes taboo, these pieces require reading between the lines.

Lauda Musicam Chamber Concert
Practically all of the instruments of the Renaissance period existed in “consorts” of various sizes of one instrument.  Lauda’s capped reed ensemble, flute ensemble, viola da gamba ensemble, Baroque orchestra, and others perform in this showcase of the smaller groups within Lauda Musicam. The concert is free, but donations are gratefully accepted.

The long-running Atlanta Midwinter Workshop, co-sponsored by the Atlanta Recorder Society and the Atlanta Early Music Alliance, brings in some outstanding teachers for a weekend of music making and learning. Classes for viols, recorders, early reeds and brass, and capped reeds, as well as large-group playing sessions make this a popular workshop for folks all over the southeast—and beyond!

The Atlanta Recorder Society meets monthly on the third Sunday. Anyone even REMOTELY interested in recorder should join.
Jody will lead the December playing session. Selections will include some holiday and winter tunes of all sorts. This will be much more of a reading extravaganza than anything else! Join the Atlanta Recorder Society by clicking here.

Fantasy & Mayhem
Music of the Middle Ages and Renaissance has long been associated with the surreal, the mythological, and the fantastical.  Lauda Musicam of Atlanta will perform music of both peaceful and tumultuous times, giving a sample of the music that inspired some of today’s pop culture. The concert is free, but donations are gratefully accepted.

Wednesdays, Sept. 24, Oct. 1, Oct. 8, 7:00–8:30 pm Eastern Time
Virtual class series

Jody leads a three-part class in rhythm, building on the September 14 presentation with NAVRS. This will be especially aimed at players who categorize themselves as lower intermediate to intermediate, though these sessions are likely to be helpful to those who need some teaching hints. We’ll unravel time signatures, how to improve rhythmic accuracy, and common rhythmic patterns everyone needs to know. We’ll pack a lot into these sessions. The sessions will be largely lecture format with opportunities for participants to submit some written and audio examples for feedback. We will read a limited number of solo and consort tunes.