..you absolutely should. Here's why:
It's only one day
In this busy world we live in, sadly some of us aren't able to commit to a weekly rehearsal, or don't have the time to join more than one ensemble. A Play Day is exactly that: just one day, filled with lots of playing, a little socialising, and an overwhelming sense of achievement when you realise that you and your fellow players have perfected an entire programme of music in just a few short hours. The only scheduling dilemma you'll have is whether or not you can make the next one!
It's a great chance to meet other local musicians
For many musicians, there's no better feeling than getting together with others and making music. Play Days can be a great way to 'network' and find like-minded people who might offer other opportunities to collaborate; if you're new to the area, it's a great way to make friends and find out what's going on in your new local music scene. Even if you're already in an ensemble, you can never make too many musical friends. Who knows what the player in the next seat might bring?!
The programme will be something to get your teeth into
Play Day programmes are designed to entice you to attend, and so are more often than not exciting and sometimes challenging in their nature. Perhaps there'll be a piece on the programme that you've always wanted to play, or played when you were 15 and brings back fond memories. Maybe you're up for a challenge, and a change from the pieces you rehearse week in, week out. The hope is that by the end of the day, you'll go home humming at least one of the pieces until the small hours.
It's a great opportunity to play under a different conductor/director
It's easy to get used to the style and approach of a regular ensemble director, so sometimes it's good to step outside your comfort zone and play music from another conductor's viewpoint. This can be great for musical understanding; you might even learn something you never knew about a certain style of playing, or about your instrument. Play Day conductors are likely to be experienced directors who have plenty of wisdom to pass on; they also often have their fingers in lots of different pies, so if you make a good impression who knows - you could be recruited!
Resurrect another/old instrument
Many of us suffer from the 'second instrument' issue - where it gets neglected because you focus all your time and energy on your first instrument - or the 'I used to be really good but haven't picked it up in years' issue, which speaks for itself. Either way, here's your opportunity to dust off that poor, abandoned instrument and rediscover your love for playing it.
It's GREAT FUN
Play Days are usually informal affairs, with no expectation of the end result. Any nerves that might accompany you into the building will soon disappear once you find your seat and realise that everyone else is in exactly the same boat! The main aim is to bring together a group of musicians to see what magic can happen in the space of a day - usually with a lot of laughs along the way.
Have we done enough to convince you? Then sign up for our next Play Day here - we can't wait to welcome you!
All photos courtesy of Carlo Cerutti.
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