Benedetti Foundation launches Global Violin Sessions part 2

Between 18 April - 8 May, the Benedetti Foundation is returning with part two of its virtual Global Violin Sessions: A Cultural Exchange. 

This year’s piece, written by accordionist Phil Cunningham, will first be performed by Nicola Benedetti and then unpacked in virtual sessions by various musicians over three weeks, alongside discussions on the folk traditions of Scotland, Egypt and the East Meets West. 

Participating musicians of all ages will learn the repertoire from the virtual sessions; they will then be asked to record and send across their performance to the foundation, which will be collated into a film and broadcast on 22 May. 

The live online sessions will each visit a different tradition, addressing technique, sound, rhythm, melody, and the story behind the music. 

Guest artists will make appearances including Aly Bain, Jenna Reid, The Ayoub Sisters, Timothy Chooi and Laure Chan. 

Nicola Benedetti commented, ‘I am really excited that our guest artists will teach the participants the nuances and techniques of their tradition.’ 

‘They will delve deep inside their worlds, and participants will not only learn about how to play in their style, but also learn about why they sound the way they do and make the choices they make. We can’t wait and hope you will join us.’

The schedule of the virtual sessions are as follows: 

Week One: 23 & 24 April – Scotland

• Aly Bain and Jenna Reid - fiddle 
• Phil Cunningham - accordion

Week Two: 30 April & 1 May: Egypt

• The Ayoub Sisters - violin and cello 

Week Three: 7 & 8 May - East Meets West

• Laure Chan and Timothy Chooi - violin

There is a registration fee of £25 to cover the costs of delivering the sessions, but full bursaries are available to all. 

www.benedettifoundation.org/global-violin