Young Grittleton: Ffion (12)

Attending Young Grittleton this year has been a fabulous opportunity. I have learnt a lot and have enjoyed playing with other musicians my own age.

I played a number of pieces this year including Beethoven’s String Quartet op.18 nr.1 and Eine Kleine Nachtmusik by Mozart.

Beethoven op.18 nr.1 pushed me to my limits, but I chose this challenging piece to play in the concert as I wanted to make the most of the learning experience. This was a challenging piece because it contained tricky rhythms but, with the help of the excellent teaching staff, I was able to overcome the difficulties and was very proud of my overall performance.  

I also had the opportunity to play chamber music with the senior course, which gave me the opportunity to improve my pizzicato technique, and to meet and learn from experienced musicians. Additionally, this intense 5 days of tuition and playing has improved my ability to use dynamics effectively, and also my vibrato technique, which I will be able to use in my future lessons and examinations. Performing in the concert at the end of the week helped improve my confidence, and by the end of the course the coaches said that I was the most improved player. 

I am very grateful to the Joan Dickson Chamber Music Fund for enabling me to attend this course. 

Thanks, 

 Ffion (viola), age 12