Conductors, composers and arrangers of symphonic bands will learn the basics of arranging for any ensemble. Specific arranging techniques will be presented and demonstrated. In addition, composers will be able to present their compositions in a masterclass setting. As all sessions will be held in the mornings, students can attend the conducting workshop in the evening if they choose.

Instructors

The program will be taught by Gregory Fritze.

Program schedule

Monday
10:00 – 12:45 Arranging Class 1 – Instrumentation of the symphonic band, the international grading system for bands, basics of the arrangement–melody, bass line, rhythm, countermelody
1:00 – 2:30 Composition Masterclass

Tuesday
9:00 – 9:45 Composition Masterclass
10:00 – 12:45 Arranging Class 2 - Setting up a lead sheet, transcribing a melody with chord changes
1:00 – 2:30 Composition Masterclass

Wednesday
9:00 – 9:45 Composition Masterclass
10:00 – 12:45 Arranging Class 3 – Setting up a short score, transcribing chord changes into written harmony patterns. Adding counterpoint lines and using chord substitutions.
1:00 – 2:30 Composition Masterclass

Thursday
9:00 – 9:45 Composition Masterclass
10:00 – 12:45 Arranging Class 4 – Basic layout of an arrangement in short score. Uses of introductions, transitions, interludes and codas. Harmonic modulations.
1:00 – 2:30 Composition Masterclass

Friday
9:00 – 9:45 Composition Masterclass
10:00 – 12:45 Arranging Class 5 – Setting up a full score, transcribing basic patterns into larger textures of the symphonic band. Uses of the different choirs of instruments. Writing out parts.
1:00 – 2:30 Composition Masterclass

Students may elect to participate in the Arranging and Composition workshop and Conducting Workshop concurrently.

* Class schedule is subject to change

The Berklee Symphonic Bands Conducting Workshop gives you an unparalleled opportunity to learn what it takes to be a professional conductor for a symphonic band. We'll help you find your unique strengths that make you stand out from the rest and get comfortable standing in front of a symphonic band. This workshop takes place in the afternoon/evening and can be taken as a conducting auditor for 300euros. The workshop has a maximum of 16 participant conductors, and maximum of 30 auditors.

The Conducting for Symphonic Bands Workshop will be held at Centro Instructivo Musical La Armónica de Buñol.

Instructor

The program will be taught by Rafael Sanz-Espert, Music Director of the Banda Sinfónica de Madrid.

Program schedule

Monday
16:30 – 18:30 Conducting Masterclass
18:30 – 20:30 Conducting session with chamber ensemble

Tuesday
16:30 – 18:30 Conducting Masterclass
18:30 – 20:30 Conducting session with chamber ensemble
22:00 - 00:30 Conducting session with symphonic band

Wednesday
16:30 – 20:30 Conducting Masterclass
22:00 - 00:30 Conducting session with symphonic band

Thursday
16:30 – 20:30 Conducting Masterclass
16:30 – 20:30 Conducting session with symphonic band

Friday
16:30 – 20:30 Conducting Masterclass
22:00 - 00:30 Conducting session with symphonic band

* Class schedule is subject to change