New Year 2026 Taster2025-10-23T09:12:43+01:00

Event

New Year 2026 Taster

  • St Mary's Church
    Battersea Church Rd, London SW11 3NA
  • Saturday, 17 January 2026
    10am - 5pm
  • Fee: £40
  • Deposit: £0.00

What’s in a Taster Day?

  • Camaraderie and laughter !

  • Open to all instruments and voice

  • A chance to meet some of the tutors and regular participants and to get a flavour of what to expect from a five day Holiday Music course

  • The option of singing in a barbershop group, duets and trios etc

  • All music will be given out in advance and matched to your level

  • Tea, coffee and lunch are provided

Please book as soon as you are able!

We are forming groups and once we know you're coming, we will send music out to you. We're selecting a variety of short, attractive pieces in different styles for each level and we're sure you'll really enjoy playing them.

Please sign up to help us plan a great day for everyone!

Keep an eye on this page for more details as we will be tailoring the structure of the day according to the participants that sign on .

An Introduction to the Holiday Music Ethos

You may be surprised by how much experience that all the music you've played previously has given you.

Build on your musical experience. Whatever your starting point, the courses aim to help you to become a more assured and confident musician.

Unearth your innate musicality!

Holiday Music courses will help you to peel back layers of accumulated baggage and to play more communicatively and expressively.

 

What we will need from you

A short message letting us know your playing experience so far, your instrument, and any dietary needs for the day.
We can’t wait to make this day happen and meet new musical friends.

Venue Website: www.stmarysbattersea.org.uk

The Venue

Set on the banks of the River Thames, St. Mary's Battersea offers a truly unique and historic venue for Holiday Music events. As a Grade I listed Georgian church, it boasts a strong musical tradition, with a regular choir, a versatile organ, and a history of hosting recitals and jazz concerts. You’ll find inspiration in the prestigious, light-filled main auditorium, featuring a wooden floor and high ceilings, while benefiting from the modern amenities of the lower floor's breakout rooms. The church’s rich heritage, including its connection to historical figures like William Blake and J.M.W. Turner, provides an elegant and culturally significant backdrop for musical study and performance.

Booking & Details

Use the tabs to choose a form to book or request details.

TUTORS

EXTENDED Team

TUTORS

  • Florica Grigoras

    Role/s

    Violin Coach

    Instrument/s

    Violin

  • Catherine Dubois

    Role/s

    Piano Coach

    Instrument/s

    Piano

  • Hilary

    Hilary Fisher

    Role/s

    Vocal Coordinator

    Instrument/s

    Piano, Voice

  • Danielle Salamon

    Role/s

    Musical Consultant, Piano Coach

    Instrument/s

    Piano

  • Beatrice Nicholas

    Role/s

    Piano Coach

    Instrument/s

    Piano

EXTENDED Team

  • Richard Calder

    Role/s

    Resident Pianist

    Instrument/s

    Piano

  • Claire Smith

    Role/s

    Course Director

    Instrument/s

    Piano

  • Antonella

    Antonella Pintus

    Role/s

    Administration

    Instrument/s

    Cello

VENUE

VIDEo

FAQs

Why is Holiday Music different?2025-09-25T18:37:21+01:00
  • Expert tuition
    Confidence-building guidance from a faculty of experienced teachers and performers.

  • Carefully matched ensembles
    Thoughtfully grouped players for the best musical outcomes.

  • Tailored repertoire
    Expertly chosen music, balancing ability, challenge, and preference.

  • First-class facilities
    Beautiful practice rooms, fine pianos, and superb performance spaces.

  • Performance opportunities
    Play for a friendly, supportive audience in concerts that showcase what you’ve learned.

  • Masterclasses & recitals
    Benefit from sessions with faculty members and guest musicians.

  • Wide range of activities
    From choir and orchestra to jazz, yoga, and movement classes.

  • Community & friendships
    Free time to socialise with like-minded musicians and form ensembles that often continue long after the course ends.

How do I apply?2025-09-28T11:38:14+01:00

Fill in the booking form at the bottom of the course page. You’ll be asked about your instrument, experience, and repertoire preferences so we can make the best group match for you.

Where does the course take place?2025-09-28T11:40:59+01:00

We have several wonderful venues. Past courses were held at the Yehudi Menuhin School, Purcell School and Tonbridge school. Each course or event has a dedicated page with the venue details and other helpful information.

Do I need to come with a pre-formed ensemble?2025-09-28T13:00:56+01:00

Not at all! Many people apply individually. We’ll place you in an ensemble that matches your playing level and repertoire interests, and we’ll provide music to you in advance.

What other activities are there besides rehearsals?2025-09-28T13:03:58+01:00

In addition to ensemble coaching, you can enjoy a wide range of optional activities such as choir, orchestra, barbershop singing, yoga, and movement classes. Evenings are informal, with opportunities to relax and socialise in the common rooms.

What happens during the course?2025-09-28T13:06:08+01:00
  • Day 1
    Meet your ensemble, rehearse, and enjoy planned activities, including a tutors’ concert.

  • Days 2, 3 and 4
    Ensemble rehearsals with coaches, plus other activities like choir, orchestra, movement classes, barbershop and singing accompaniment.

  • Final day
    A celebratory concert where all ensembles perform their prepared pieces.

When will I receive the music?2025-09-11T10:34:24+01:00

Participants are sent their music 4–6 weeks before the course, giving plenty of time to prepare.

How will I be placed in an ensemble?2025-09-28T13:07:20+01:00

Before the course, Claire Smith (Course Director) will speak with you to discuss your playing level, experience, and repertoire preferences. She and the team will then carefully match you with other players and assign suitable repertoire.

How do I know if the course is right for me?2025-09-29T20:30:32+01:00

If you are an adult amateur musician who would like to play chamber music and make friends, the course is a great fit for you. We recommend attending our Taster Days, where you can meet tutors and students, experience playing and/or singing in an ensemble, and get a feel for the course.

Who can join Holiday Music?2025-10-23T09:10:05+01:00

Anyone who plays an instrument or sings at approximately Grade 5 level or above is welcome. You can apply as a soloist, with a pre-formed group, or as a musician looking to join an ensemble.

Go to Top