The title says what the book is all about but it doesn't convey the beautiful way Cormac tells it.
When I read it a few weeks back I was amazed how well he brought complete strangers (to me) to life. I felt I knew them. Although, in general, he is kind he still manages to point out a person's shortcomings and yet manages to do it without causing offence - something we try to do on BSH.
Those who were virtually present spoke in congratulatory tones about Cormac and the book. These included Julian Lloyd Webber and Xhosa Cole. Cormac recalled writing an arrangement of Take Five for a 13-year-old alto sax player who showed promise - that was Xhosa!
Xhosa himself spoke about the support he'd received from the music service before going on to play a piece called Reflections. In fairness to Xhosa, his sound system didn't do him any favours. Fortunately, unless the powers that be decree otherwise, Xhosa will be heard at The Globe next month with Francis Tulip and co.
Good to see Peter Volpe zooming in from Paris. He looked good and chatted with Cormac at length at the end of the programme.
The launch opened with some brilliant ethnic percussion from Soha Chisti and later there was some fine classical guitar from David Hyatt.
The show was hosted by Tim Baptiste one of Birmingham's leading brass teachers. Others who spoke in glowing tones of Cormac, the book and the music service, included Linda Rose; Mick Waters and Angela Zienko.
You don't have to live in Birmingham - it's a story that could, or rather should, relate to music services anywhere.
Lance
Improvising on a Theme is available via Waterstones, Amazon or direct from UCL IOE Press. ISBN 978-1-78277-286-6
1 comment :
It sounds like it was a worthwhile experience. And don't forget, Xhosa will be part of Kansas Smitty's session on Friday playing Dizzy's Sonny Side Up.
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