BRS Meetings
The Boston Recorder Society's monthly meetings are playing sessions, and we operate on a semester basis. Three or four experienced music teachers coach separate recorder ensembles, which are generally grouped based upon playing level. These ensembles range from beginners (with the ability to sight-read music, play in tune and play in rhythm) through advanced players. The ensembles are open to players of other instruments, such as viola da gamba, baroque cello, flute, and other instruments that are not too loud and can blend nicely with our main instrument, the recorder. We also offer a "Loud Group" which focuses on early brass and reed instruments such as the sackbut, dulcian, and crumhorn. In the 2015 Fall semester we will be offering a dedicated renaissance flute ensemble, pending enough interest. Our Music Director, Heloise Degrugiliier, a well-known recorder teacher and performer, carefully places players in the appropriate playing groups.
We are fortunate to have many wonderful recorder teachers who live locally and are willing to devote time to the BRS and the recorder community.
The meetings are held at Lesley University's University Hall in Porter Square, Cambridge. We meet one Sunday each month (September - May) from 6:30 to 9:00 PM. Each meeting consists of two playing sessions. Between the two sessions we have a short break for refreshments, announcements and some social time.
We invite newcomers to attend their first meeting at no cost, in order to get acquainted with the BRS. After that, different membership packages are offered.
The BRS focuses on development of ensemble skills. To improve their individual level of play, members can also take lessons from our local teachers.
In addition to the fall, winter and spring monthly meetings, the BRS also sponsors one or more Saturday workshops each year. One full-day workshop usually occurs in the spring, and one or two mini-workshop may be offered in the fall and winter, focused on a specific topic.
Details regarding each monthly meeting are contained in our monthly newsletter, which comes out around the 10th of each month. You can sign up to receive the BRS newsletter here.