The recorder ensemble that meets at Rangitoto College in Mairangi Bay started six years ago at the beginning of 2000. Jessica Shaw was starting a class for adults who would like to learn the recorder. It was a bit uncertain whether the class would start because there were not quite enough enrolments but it did and six years later it is thriving.
The present group is a mixture of people who were there that first night and others who have joined during the last six years. The group has been enriched as experienced players have joined and brought their talents to the group. This has encouraged and supported the members who joined as beginners. All players would agree that playing together is a very enjoyable and satisfying experience.
The group meets on Tuesdays from 7-9pm. The future of night classes is a bit uncertain with the government reassessing funding but whatever happens members of the group are determined to continue to meet. As the night class year is divided into four terms of seven weeks each, this leaves long break periods when members often meet in one another’s homes to practise.
Members of the group have become good friends, and fun and social activities are an important part of the group. Examples of social activities include regular visits to McDonald’s after class and a recent very enjoyable outing to the bird sanctuary Tiritiri Matangi. The group also enjoys performing to others in places such as rest homes.
Jessica is a skillful teacher who manages to lead a group whose members have different abilities and different tastes in music. Her selection of music always has something that appeals and her enthusiastic teaching provides a lot of encouragement.
The group looks forward to playing and improving in 2006. New members are welcome and if you are interested in joining you can contact Rangitoto College Community Education.
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