Guildhall expands its Short Courses programme with nine new short courses

Guildhall School of Music & Drama is expanding its short courses programme to offer nine new options for 2019. The new courses cover music, production arts, drama and continuing professional development, in addition to the range already on offer, making a total number of 47, the most ever delivered. Participants will have the opportunity to work alongside Guildhall School staff members and guest tutors in a range of workshops, one-to-one lessons and group rehearsals.

New courses for 2019:

Music Production in Logic Pro X: Beginners Course (Evening Class)

This six-week evening class, for those aged 18 and over, covers the key techniques of digital music production, from audio and MIDI editing to recording, sound synthesis and audio FX. This course aims to develop the core foundation of skills and techniques needed by songwriters, composers and aspiring producers.

Music Production in Logic Pro X: Advanced Course (Evening Class)

The Advanced Course is intended for more experienced composers, producers and sound designers. Over six weeks, it covers a wide range of subjects designed to expand the participants’ knowledge and understanding of music technology, while improving the quality of their productions. The course covers techniques and aesthetics of sound synthesis, as well as how to produce custom sound design and presets using advanced audio processing techniques. Key principles and processes of mixing music, as well as mastering audio for release will also be explored. This course is suitable for over 18s, as a follow-on to the Beginners Course, or for those with prior experience of digital music production.

Public Speaking & Charisma (Evening Class)

Over six weeks, this engaging evening course is ideal for anyone over 18 who wants to improve their presence in a room, confidence, and presentation skills: whether with a specific goal such as a presentation at work or a public speech, or to improve everyday communication skills. Starting with the basics, the course will develop a more sophisticated skill set designed to meet individual needs. Exercises include voice work and warmups, physicality and examination of effective rhetoric. By the end of the course, participants will have a newfound confidence, natural presence and charisma.

Improvise with Guildhall: Intermediate Course (Evening Class)

In this six-week evening course for those over 18, participants will think on their feet and work on more sophisticated scenes and exercises. After refreshing the basics, participants progress to more sophisticated scene-work exploring: use of initiative, story arcs and narrative, spontaneity with text, and fleshing out characters. The Intermediate Course is designed for people who have already completed the Improvise with Guildhall Beginner Course but may also suit those who already have experience with improvisation.

Performing Shakespeare (Evening Class)

During this evening class, participants (over 18s) will have the opportunity to learn how to perform and approach Shakespearean texts. The course examines one of his plays in depth for the whole six-week duration, while also exploring many of the common themes and devices that span his work. This course is ideal for anyone from passionate theatregoers who may wish to increase their experience of acting, or amateurs who want to take their skills to the next level, to those who may be considering pursuing further study in acting.

Contemporary Theatre & Modern Writing (Evening Class)

This course will introduce participants to contemporary theatre and new writing through an exploration of modern work. The six-week duration allows participants to engage with some of the themes that span the genre, examine the use of language and physicality and develop performance skills through devised work. This course is ideal for any over 18: newcomers to theatre and young non-actors who wish to expand their knowledge of contemporary theatre and bring their understanding and skills to the next level. Preparation prior to the course and some homework between sessions is expected.

Chamber Music Weekend for Flute, Cello & Piano

Led by renowned flute, cello and piano trio Enigma 14, participants will form trios with likeminded musicians to explore works by composers including Haydn, Mozart and Beethoven.  A supportive approach develops participants’ skills both as individuals and as part of a chamber group, and the course concludes with an informal concert for family and friends. This course is suitable for participants aged 16 and above who are at least Grade 6.

Drama Summer School for 12-15 year olds

This course offers young people with a passion for acting the opportunity to learn and explore acting in a supportive environment, while making sure they are having a lot of fun and making new friends. Through theatre games and acting exercises, led by Guildhall tutors and experienced acting graduates, the participants will develop their acting skills alongside their peers, building confidence and self-esteem as they progress. This two-week course is designed for all levels of experience, including beginners and those who might eventually wish to attend a full-time drama school. It is ideal for children looking for an opportunity to do the very thing they love and learn new skills as part of a stimulating and creative group.

Music Production for Girls aged 14-18

This course offers an exciting opportunity for girls aged 14-18 to develop their skills in composition and music technology. Participants will learn the most important elements of music production including recording, use of MIDI, and sound design. Each participant will produce a CD recording that they can take home at the end of the week-long course.

The new courses will run in addition to courses that the School already offers - further details and fees can be found on our Short Courses pages.