What is the Nottingham SaxWeekend?  This weekend course evolved from the established and popular Nottingham Saxday.  Many of those attending the one day event were keen to experience more of the same, but with more time to play in ensembles and have further coaching on a range of related topics.  The first weekend ran in 2010 and was a great success with those that attended, so it is now established on the saxophone calendar. What makes it different? We think we have some ingredients that are hard to beat! In particular, the winning combination of a venue that provides excellent, flexible premises that suit our needs; and a large tutor team with some of the leading players and educators in the the country.  The ethos is to create a friendly, supportive environment where everyone feels confident to seek out some new challenges, as well as to meet old friends and play familiar material. Our range of specialist tutors mean we can offer extra workshop sessions, such as extended techniques (altissimo, multiphonics etc), performance masterclasses, arranging for saxophone groups, jazz and electronics.      Where is the course held? The weekend is being held at The Hayes Conference Centre, Swanwick, Alfreton, Derbyshire, DE55 1AU.  Close to the M1 and in the geographical centre of the country, the venue is easy to get to wherever you are travelling from.  Location of The Hayes. Who is the course suitable for? If you are a saxophone player (any sax!) of approximately Grade 5 standard or above (up to post-diploma level) then you will find plenty to interest and stimulate you on the course.  The minimum playing standard is partly to ensure that participants are able to sight-read new material of a suitable level.  Parts are not sent out beforehand.   How much does it cost? The cost is £285.00 per person, which includes all tuition, meals and accommodation in a single en suite room.  Non-playing partners and friends are also welcome, for whom there is an accommodation-only rate of £205.00.  A limited number of non-resident places are available at £235.00.  Rooms are single, with en suite facilities.  (You can share if you prefer - give the name of who you want to share with when booking (note - the venue do not offer any cheaper rate for sharing so it's just down to your preference).  If you are registering as part of a preformed group then you are entitled to a £10.00 discount (per person).  How do I book? You need to complete a booking form which you can do online or print one off and do it by post.  You need to pay a deposit to secure your place (or you can pay the full balance if you prefer).  Deposit of £100.00 is needed by 30th November 2011, full balance by 31st January 2012. Booking forms here Some feedback from participants on last year's event: "A fab week-end, hugely enjoyable, and great to have the opportunity for ensemble playing which I rarely get to do. Loads of lovely friendly people, as I came on my own there were only two people ther I knew, so I have made loads of new friends. And a real treat to be entertained by our course mates and such a superb collection of professional players all under one roof. Good to have the shop there as well" "Thank you so much for organising such a fantastic weekend. I really didn't want it to end! On a personal level we seemed to achieve a lot in a short time with the ensemble group that we performed with on Sunday afternoon. The jazz session in the vinery on Saturday night was a real treat and I left feeling tired but on a real high!! The tutors were all excellent and a real inspiration. I can't fault any of it." "Thank you very much for organising such a lovely and friendly course."