ACE Foundation

A Busy Weekend!

2011-10-13T01:59:00.000-07:00

Last Friday we had a remarkable day at the Musical Brain conference ‘Why Music’ in London. The day was absolutely fascinating and included talks and discussions on whether music was different to the other arts and whether neuroimaging was important for our understanding of aesthetics and our responses to art. The day was rounded off by a beautiful concert by Ian Brown and the Sacconi Quartet.
On Sunday we were yet again astounded by what can be achieved in a day. We were joined by 106 musicians of all ages and instruments at Hills Road Sixth Form College for a day of Orchestral music making. Led by the charismatic Russell Keable the orchestra made their way through the whole of Mahlers 1st symphony and some of Massanet’s Le Cid. Thank you to everyone who took part on both days for making them such a success.

Pictures to follow.

Horn Day with Tony Halstead

2011-08-31T07:45:00.000-07:00

In January 2012 we welcome you to join us for our first ever Horn Day with the Tony Halstead Horn Ensemble.

As a horn player Tony Halstead has held Principal positions with the London Symphony Orchestra, the English Chamber Orchestra, The Academy of Ancient Music, the English Concert, The Hanover Band and the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment. We welcome anyone who plays the French horn to join us for a truly exciting music making experience.

For more information visit http://www.acefoundation.org.uk/courses/course-Horn2011%20.html

Photos!

2011-08-31T07:38:00.000-07:00

Bury Farm has been progressing well over the last few months and we have now added a photo update on our flickr and facebook pages.

We have also added pictures from both our summer schools that have been running during July and August.

To have a look follow the flickr link on the right hand side of the page or visit https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-ACE-Foundation/181610685751

Orchestral Day.

2011-07-21T02:00:00.000-07:00

Places are selling fast for orchestral day with Russell Keable on the 9th October.

Flute & Harp places have now SOLD OUT!

There are currently spaces for all other orchestral instruments but we advise booking now to avoid disappointment!

Why Music? Is Music Different from the Other Arts?

2011-07-14T07:05:00.000-07:00

There are now only 4 student places left on the Musical Brain Conference at Queen Square in October. Student places are £45, book now to avoid disappointment!

Full price places at £95 still available.

http://www.acefoundation.org.uk/courses/course-musicalbrain11.html

Orchestral Day.

2011-06-28T03:47:00.000-07:00

Have you booked your place on Orchestral Day with Russell Keable?

Music includes Mahler's first symphony. Suitable for players of all ages and all orchestral instruments, grade 6+.

Bookings can be made online, by phone or by post please see our website for details. www.acefoundation.org.uk

Places for each instrument are limited so please book early to avoid disappointment.

Harp Places already sold out!

Music Courses.

2011-05-17T08:26:00.000-07:00

We are now taking bookings for 3 more music courses in 2011.

On the 17th July we are joined by Alan Barnes & Brigitte Beraha for a Jazz Day.

On the 9th October we welcome Russell Keable to conduct Mahler's 1st Symphony & Massenet's Le Cid for our first Orchestral Day.

Finally on the 27th of November we are joined once again by Prime Brass for our Brass Day 2011.

For more information or to book a place please see our website www.acefoundation.org.uk

or call us on 01223 499707

Literature Courses

2011-05-12T07:25:00.000-07:00

We still have a few places on our Creative writing and Playwriting courses at Cambridge Central Library. If you have an interest in writing or know anyone with an interest in writing tell them to check out our web page, under Courses - Arts.

The Musical Brain- Arts, Science & the Mind, Conference 2011

2011-05-09T07:33:00.000-07:00

We are now taking bookings for The Musical Brain 2011 Conference, Why Music? Is Music different from the Other Arts?

In a day of talks, discussions and performance, leaders in the fields of science and the humanities examine the value of music to the human being in comparison with the other arts.

Please see our website for further details and to book a place.

Photos!

2011-04-15T06:08:00.000-07:00

Photos and videos of Flute Day, Bassoon Day and Clarinet Ensemble Day are now available to view on flickr and facebook.

More videos to follow on Facebook shortly!

A Forest of Bassoons & a Choir of Clarinets

2011-04-15T05:51:00.000-07:00

Thank you to all those who attended Bassoon Day with Philip Turbett & Graham Dolby and Clarinet Ensemble Day with James Rae on the 10th April.

44 Bassoon players attended and 4 contra bassoons. As well as playing as a full ensemble, we were also treated to some music by smaller ensembles including my particular favorite, flight of the Bumblebee by the senior players.

Intermediate and advanced Clarinet players had the chance to work on some advanced clarinet choir pieces including music by James Rae and music arranged by Jon Halton.

Videos and Pictures of both events will be posted shortly on our Flickr and Facebook pages.

String Day Photos.

2011-04-05T04:22:00.000-07:00

A selection of photos from String Day are now available to view on flickr, please click on the slide show on the right.

Ever fancied writing a short story or even a novel?

2011-04-01T06:44:00.001-07:00

Sign up for our 8 week introduction to creative writing with award winning local author Jo Browning Wroe. For more information or to book a place please visit our website

http://www.acefoundation.org.uk/courses/course-creativewriting.html

Flute Day flight of the Bumblebee now on Facebook!

2011-04-01T06:36:00.000-07:00

Watch the video of Flute day Flight of the Bumblebee rehearsal on our facebook page http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-ACE-Foundation/181610685751

NOW BOOKING! Playwriting with Fraser Grace

2011-03-31T07:58:00.000-07:00

We are excited to announce that we will be running our first play writing course with acclaimed local playwright Fraser Grace. The course will run at Cambridge Central Library every Wednesday evening from Wednesday 1 June until Wednesday 6 July. Places are limited so book early to avoid disappointment. For more information or to book a place please go to http://www.acefoundation.org.uk/courses/course-Playwriting.html

For further information about Fraser Grace please see his website http://www.frasergrace.co.uk/

Thank You Flautists!

2011-03-31T07:08:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday we were joined by Ian Clarke and 104 flute players for a fantastic day of music making. Participants experienced playing Zig Zag Zoo and Walk Like This as a full ensemble as well as playing standard repertoire in smaller ensembles. We were all treated to a fantastic and beautiful concert by Ian Clarke, where we were astounded by his huge range of techniques and prolonged circular breathing! At the end of the day friends and family were able to appreciate the days work with impressive performances of Ian's pieces as well as the small ensemble work including Flight of the Bumblebee. Photos of the day will be posted shortly as well as a few video snippets of the days highlights.

String Day Success!

2011-03-16T06:42:00.000-07:00

On Sunday over 140 violin, viola, cello and double bass players gathered at Hills Road Sixth form College for the Steve Bingham String Day. Despite a few logistical headaches like trying to work out if it was possible to get 11 double basses, 37 cellos 11, violas, 38 violins and an audience in the recital room, the day was a great success. All the participants coped admirably with challenging music and the concert at the end of the day was testament to this. Its amazing what can be achieved in a day! I would like to thank all the participants and tutors for making the day so enjoyable. Pictures on flickr to follow.

String Day - Violins grade 4 to 8 sold out!

2011-02-23T04:58:00.000-08:00

There is a waiting list for violin places, in the intermediate and advanced orchestras for string day on the 13th March. If you have not yet booked for string day and would like to be added to this list please email ace@acefoundation.org.uk or call 01223 499707.

We are still taking violin bookings for the junior orchestra (grades 1 to 3) and for violas, cellos and double basses of all abilities.

Clarinet & Saxophone Day

2011-02-22T08:34:00.000-08:00

Photos of the day and of Lesley's artwork are now available to view on our flickr page http://www.flickr.com/photos/acefoundation/sets/72157626110698506/

Between the Books.

2011-02-22T04:54:00.000-08:00

Cambridge Central Library and Great Shelford Library hosted our Book Arts exhibition – Between the Books. The exhibition was a great success entertaining and delighting people of all ages. The artworks were produced by twelve enthusiastic participants who attended our 10 week Book Arts course - Between the Pages. The artworks were displayed in Cambridge Central with the books interwoven amongst the regular collection. Although some visitors didn't have time to find all the books many people enjoyed exploring the library, on the hunt, whilst others were delighted to stumble upon them by mistake. The Book Arts then moved to Great Shelford Library where they were again entwined amongst the regular books.

The exhibition had a fantastic response (comments from the comment book included below!) and we are delighted that so many people appreciated the hard work that went into each book.

See pictures from Cambridge Central on Flickr, Pictures from Shelford to follow! www.flickr.com/photos/acefoundation

It was also featured in a lovely blog in December please see the link http://wandering-the-dream-space.blogspot.com/2010/12/between-books.html

Thank you to course tutor Candida Bradley and all the book artists who contributed for your hard work and enthusiasm.

A few comments from the comments book:

‘An inspiring exhibition –I enjoyed the creativity and variety of the books..’ Diane W

‘I spent a pleasant hour discovering the various little book treasures!...’

‘Excellent-innovative & inspirational..’ Margaret

‘Thank you for a wonderful & inspiring exhibition’ M.P

‘The ‘treasure hunt’ slowed me down-lovely feeling-time to enjoy the calm and to admire the creativity & ingenuity of the book makers’

‘Very inspirational and thought provoking…’ Jennifer D

Calling all Viola Players

2011-02-17T06:08:00.000-08:00

Viola players, have you booked your place on String Day with Steve Bingham on the 13th March?

Places are going fast for String day but we still have space for some viola players!

Intermediate ensemble will be playing Elgar's Serenade and Grainger's Mock Morris and if your up for a challenge, why not play with the advanced orchestra who are tackling Schoenberg's Verklarte Nacht and Richard Strauss's Capriccio.

Artist Lesley Fotherby - Paintings of Clarinet & Saxophone day and Brass Day.

2011-02-16T03:21:00.000-08:00

During some of our music courses you may have noticed artist Lesley Fotherby painting scenes from the workshops throughout the day. Here are two of her beautiful paintings from our events, more of Lesley's work can be found at the Chris Beetles gallery in London.

Thank You Clarinet & Saxophone Players!

2011-02-14T04:53:00.000-08:00

Thank you to those of you who attended the Clarinet & Saxophone Day at Sawston Village College yesterday.

The day went well thanks to everyone's hard work and cooperation. Reports from participants and tutors were very positive and many new skills were learnt. Participants enjoyed workshops with James Rae as well as ensemble playing and a mouthpiece and reed clinic by Thomas Dryer-Beers. At Lunchtime we were treated to a concert by Simply Reeds and the day was completed by a fantastic concert including pieces performed by the full reed choir, some 85+ players!

Photos to follow shortly!

Lucy Bunce Concert.

2011-01-27T08:17:00.000-08:00

On the 5th of March harpist and vocalist Lucy Bunce will be performing a concert in Stapleford Church. Our Musical Director Trevor Barlow will be performing on clarinet and sax as well as Barry Hart on guitar and Joanna Hall on flute. Come along and enjoy some great music.

Exhibition in aid of Alive and Kicking-Stapleford

2011-01-26T07:48:00.000-08:00

Catherine Spencer is having an exhibition of her paintings at Johnson Hall in Stapleford, to raise money for an African educational charity; Alive and Kicking.
Catherine Spencer has chosen to support this charity because one of her grandsons tragically died of cancer last year aged 13, and his Father set up a Foundation in his name to raise money for a variety of causes to help young people in Third World Countries.
Please support this occasion in any way you can.

ACE Foundation Book

2011-01-24T03:44:00.000-08:00

Trevor Barlow, ACE Foundation Musical Director and artist, has produced a beautiful book documenting the first year of the ACE Foundation's latest project.

Bury Farm 2009 - 2010 | Make Your Own Book

You can also see the book, and order it online, from our website:

http://www.acefoundation.org.uk/about/

ACE composition scholar - Concert

2011-01-20T07:55:00.000-08:00

Luke Styles was the ACE Foundation's first composition scholar at Kings College London. We are delighted to see he is continuing with his composition and would like to draw your attention to the following performance of his work 'A Stratagem for Light'.

Consortium5 and Juice

A Stratagem for Light

Venue: Grosvenor Chapel, South Audley Street, London, W1K 2PA

7:30pm Saturday 29 January 2011

£8 / £6 concessions / under 12's free

Website: www.consortium5.com, www.juicevocalensemble.net

Tradition meets innovation as two renowned ensembles team up for a striking new collaboration. Recorder quintet Consortium5 and vocal trio Juice join forces to perform 'A Stratagem for Light' music by Luke Styles, text Jacob Sam-La Rose, newly commissioned with the generous support of the PRS Foundation, RVW Trust and the Britten-Pears Foundation.

‘A Stratagem for Light’, where light and dark meet, where the human voice and the instrumental blend and depart. Fusing the traditions of these two distinct ensembles, the new work will be performed alongside vocal inspired instrumental Renaissance works (Dowland, Byrd, Tye, Victoria) performed by Consortium5 and contemporary vocal works (Robinson, Hellawell, Oates) performed by Juice.

This refreshingly eclectic programme sets out to explore, question and emphasise the concept of the recorder as the closest instrument to the human voice.

Subsequent performances include:

St. James's Piccadilly, London 1.10pm 6 April 2011 Consortium5 premiere of the instrumental

version of 'A Stratagem for Light'

Nonclassical club night in July. Check website for details: www.nonclassical.co.uk

For more information about the performance, press tickets, interviews and photos of the

performers, please contact Roselyn Maynard of Consortium5; 07771604177

roselynmaynard@gmail.com

Book...

2011-01-12T08:05:00.000-08:00

...Arts

Our Book Art exhibition is now installed at Great Shelford Library where it has already received great admiration.

We are also delighted to note that one of the books that was sadly not able to be included in the exhibition has in-fact won a runner up prize in the Guardian Calendar Competition (see link below)! Well done Kate!

http://www.guardian.co.uk/artanddesign/gallery/2010/dec/17/g2-calendar-2011-runners-up#/?picture=369816234&index=6

...courses

We have had a fantastic response to our music courses and they are filling up fast.

So far this year we have courses suitable for string, clarinet, saxophone, bassoon and flute players. Make sure you book your place asap. to avoid disappointment.

Book Art Exhibition moving to Shelford

2011-01-05T08:52:00.000-08:00

Don't forget that the Book Art Exhibition will be moving to Great Shelford Library on Monday, so make sure you have seen it at Cambridge Central or are prepared to visit it in Shelford!

A blog link about our Book Art exhibition

2010-12-22T04:26:00.000-08:00

One of our newly inspired book artists discovered a lovely blog about our Book Arts exhibition currently showing at Cambridge Central Library.

http://wandering-the-dream-space.blogspot.com/2010/12/between-books.html

We hope those of you who have already visited have enjoyed it and that the rest of you will be able to visit soon!

Flyers and surprises!

2010-12-14T05:14:00.000-08:00

Two lots of news for you today:

1. Flyers for our music courses have arrived! (See top image) If you want any please contact us with a postal address. (ace@acefoundation.org.uk | 01223 499707)

2. Look what we happened upon on the way back from the Private View of our Book Arts exhibition! (lower image)

http://cambridgecreativenetwork.co.uk/content/silent-night-silent-auction

For jazz players:

2010-12-06T01:58:00.000-08:00

Brass Day review. By Trevor Barlow

2010-12-03T09:24:00.000-08:00

Whilst a good part of Cambridge folk were tucking into their Sunday morning breakfast, Jeremiah Clarke’s Trumpet Voluntary heralded the start of the Cambridge Brass Day with Prime Brass. The ten-piece Cambridge based ensemble had started their welcome concert to the 104 participants in the Henry Morris Hall at Sawston Village College. Tuba player Chris Lawrence warmly welcomed everybody and eloquently introduced Mozart’s Twinkle Variations. The following two items took on a feline nature, perhaps adding to that cosy armchair Sunday morning feel, with Rossini’s Cats Duet seeing trumpeters Paul Garner and Michel Sedgwick standing up front purring away through their instruments, and then, completing the session, Chris Hazel’s classic Brass work Three Brass Cats.

Truly inspired and eager to break out of that relaxed morning mood, four ensembles of approximately 26 students were formed, each led by a member of Prime Brass and assisted by their fellow musicians. Composer, teacher, tuba player and general Brass educator David Minchin joined the players to lead one junior group, ably assisted by Shaun Fitzgerald, whilst a second junior ensemble rehearsed next door with Gavin Bowyer, Alex Hewins and Julian Jarvis. Not only were correct notes, fingerings, slide positions and rhythms worked on, considerable emphasis was placed on style, projection, tone and ensemble sense. Thunderbirds, Easy Winners and even a little Swedish ABBA could be heard floating down the music suite corridor.

In the beautiful Walnut Room, trumpeter Michel Sedgwick, assisted by Gary Davidson, demonstrated great enthusiasm and skill whilst working with a senior ensemble on the Farandole from Bizet’s L’Arlesienne and The Sunny Side of the Street. Meanwhile fellow trumpeter Paul Garner, joined by trombonist Neil George and French Horn player Guy Llewellyn, gave clear direction delivered with humour and panache when working on three classical pieces by Haydn, Mozart and Beethoven.

Prime Brass have a natural way of communicating with all ages and abilities, giving testimony to their years of performing and teaching experience.

More homely pleasures followed at break time with a customised café in the staff room serving hot tea, coffee and squash, plus homemade flapjacks and fresh fruit. A DVD of the Venezuelan Brass Ensemble was enjoyed as the food and liquid revitalised everyone and the Wood Wind & Reed brass trade stand was kept busy with interest and sales.

Further ensemble playing and lunch followed, and whilst stomachs rested, ears were treated to a second Prime Brass recital, opening with Trepak from Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite and followed by the velvet sound of the Flugel horn, masterfully played by Paul Garner in Stephen Sondheim’s Send in the Clowns.

The sheer Joie de Vivre of the ensemble cannot be better demonstrated than by their performance of Hoagy Carmichael’s Stardust featuring the French horn playing of Guy Llewellyn, who performed from his wheelchair having just returned from hospital from a very serious accident. His tone, control, musicality and humour shone through and moved us all.

Tea and ensemble work followed, then the final session brought everyone together in the hall to top and tail their pieces ready for the end of day concert and to rehearse a Celebration March, which further demonstrated Michel Sedgwick’s animated and musically intelligent rehearsal style.

Family and friends filled the hall to maximum capacity, Prime Brass performed Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas, each ensemble played their hearts out and the day came to a close with all 104 participants plus Prime Brass playing the Celebration March.

Prime Brass wanted to say how impressed they were with the enthusiasm and dedication of all those who attended and that it is reassuring to see so many brass instrumentalists in the region. The smooth administration, festival atmosphere with trade stands and performance DVDs in the breakout areas, good music, tasty flapjacks, and wonderful musicians of all ages and abilities were a recipe for success. Thank you all who attended and made it this way.

Music Courses 2011

2010-11-15T02:58:00.000-08:00

As some of you have already noticed, we are now taking bookings for 5 of our 2011 courses.

Courses currently booking:

Clarinet & Sax with James Rae - 13 February
String with Steve Bingham - 13 March
Flute with Ian Clarke - 27 March
Bassoon with Philip Turbett - 10 April
Clarinet Ensemble with James Rae - 10 April

Details of these courses can be found on our website: http://www.acefoundation.org.uk/courses/music.html

You can book using paypal on the site, or call us on: 01223 499707.

If you wish to receive posters, or flyers for any of our events please email: ace@acefoundation.org.uk

Book Arts Exhibition: Between the Books.

2010-10-26T05:41:00.000-07:00

The ACE Foundation invites you to visit our Book Arts exhibition running from 11 December - 9 January at Cambridge Central Library and 11 January - 11 February at Great Shelford Library.

The exhibition has been produced by 12 participants of our 10 week Book Arts course, and their tutor, Candida Bradley, a book artist from South London.

The display of their hand made books will be interwoven into the libraries standard book collection and each piece will challenge our usual perception of books, whilst at the same time still educating us. Each book is of course its own stunning work of art in its own right too!

We hope you will have a chance to see these beautiful pieces and to learn more about the world of book arts while you're at it!

Other music events

2010-10-20T03:10:00.000-07:00

Of course, being an organisation committed to promoting cultural and international understanding through education, we are not only interested in our own, excellent events, but also those of other organisations which complement our own principles.

The Cambridgeshire Holiday Orchestra Association have been running music courses for children for over 50 years, and we are proud to be supporting their activities in 2010-11. CHOA runs music courses for children between the ages of 7 & 18 in the three major holidays each year. The children are clearly delighted with the experience because many return time and time again. This year's Christmas Course is running from the 27th - 30th December and will be directed by our very own Trevor Barlow. (For further information and to book the course please see the CHOA website, link above.)

Another event we have recently become involved with is the Britten Sinfonia Family Music Day. The event happens annually, this year on Saturday 30th October, and is primarily for families with children up to age 11. Held at West Road Concert Hall it includes a diverse range of exciting activities including gamelan and instrument making.

Focusing more on teachers (a vital component for education, I think you'll agree!) ESTA, the European String Teachers Association, provides events aimed at string instrument teachers. They recently informed us of a series of workshops on Creative and Effective String Teaching being held in London. If you are a string teacher and would like to improve your method, please see the following link: http://www.estastrings.org/courseApplication2010.htm.

Robert Schumann: The Man, The Mind, The Music - 2010 conference

2010-10-07T08:54:00.000-07:00

Thank you to The Musical Brain for arranging such a fantastic event on the weekend of October 2-3.

For those of you who missed it, or have only just discovered us, the event was a conference, held in Robert Schumann's 200th anniversary year, which explored the relationship between his music and his mind. The occasion brought together a dynamic collection of scientists, musicians and health specialists, as well as many other delegates with an interest in the relationship between music and the brain. This provided a stimulating and enjoyable environment for both intellectual discussion and musical appreciation.

Speakers included Prof. John Cox, Prof. Michael Trimble, Prof. Nigel Osborne, Dr. Jessica Grahn, Prof. Stefan Koelsch, Dr. Katie Overy, Stephen Johnson and Ian Ritchie. Delegates were treated to some superb performances by Ian Brown, James Gilchrist, Anna Tilbrook and the Sacconi Quartet. The musicians were also involved in the discussions, allowing the audience a privileged insight into the experience of music as a professional musician. All the speakers and musicians were very generous in providing examples of how music affected their lives and well-being, which allowed for a very penetrating analysis of the field in question.

All biographies can be found on The Musical Brain website.

This first event, under the leadership of The Musical Brain, has certainly provided a tantilising foundation for what is to come. Many thanks to The Musical Brain for providing this excellent opportunity and we look forward to continuing the relationship.

We were very pleased to have received excellent press coverage for the event. A more detailed review of the 2010 conference can be found in Nature.

Jazz Day video

2010-10-06T03:15:00.000-07:00

If you want to know more about our music playing days, take a look at the video from the Cambridge Jazz Day with Alan Barnes and Brigitte Beraha.

Many thanks to Peter Lefort for producing it.

Principles of Primary School Design - Book Launch

2010-09-23T07:37:00.000-07:00

PLACE ACADEMIC GROUP presents
‘Principles of Primary School Design’ - Book/film launch
Towards a common vocabulary of practice - Looking back to imagine the future

14th October 2010, 18:00- 19:30, Room GS5, Donald McIntyre Building, 184 Faculty of Education, Cambridge.

The publication to be launched at this event is a unique booklet, with a DVD of corresponding films, which explores the architectural principles used in the past design of primary schools and how these methods can be used today. Much of what the book explores relates to the late ACE trustee and respected architect and friend: David Medd OBE (1917-2009). The publication presents an argument for the vitally important relationship that should exist between educators and architects.

For further information about the launch or the book, please email: ace@acefoundation.org.uk

Attingham Scholar 2010

2010-09-21T07:47:00.001-07:00

Tiina-Mall Kreem, Curator of the Department of Sculpture at Kadriorg Art Museum in Estonia recently finished her placement on the Attingham Trust Summer School. A placement funded by the ACE Foundation. As ever with this scholarship, she was extremely complimentary of the hospitality and the excellence of the experience provided by the Attingham Trust. She confirmed that her experinces over the three weeks have given her invaluable insights that relate to both her personal development but also her work at the musueum back in Estonia, in particular her report mentioned how the school clarified the work she is doing towards two exhibitions: “Wine and bread” (Museum of Estonian Art in 2011) and “Artist and Clio. Historical painting in the 19^th century” (Kadriorg Art Museum in 2014).

Picture of Tiina-Mall @ Waddesdon Manor

The Musical Brain update

2010-09-17T06:53:00.000-07:00

Just two weeks until the Musical Brain conference - see www.acefoundation.org.uk to book a place for this innovative and inspirational event.

Sign up! Sign up! ACE Foundation newsletter!

2010-09-09T08:44:00.000-07:00

We will soon be announcing the start of our 2011 collection of music days so do keep an eye on our website and sign up to our newsletter.

www.acefoundation.org.uk

BOOK ARTS | BOOK NOW!

2010-09-01T06:46:00.000-07:00

You can now book this fantastic 10 week course due to start on the 29th September.

It will introduce you to the world of Book Arts and book making. Learn amazing new skills that can be used for making gifts, presenting portfolios, photo albums, and much more.

The course will be run every wednesday evening at the Cambridge Central Library. Books produced on this course will be exhibited in and around the library following the course, creating an exciting trail for library and exhibition goers.

Places are limited so book soon!

http://www.acefoundation.org.uk/courses/course-bookart.html

Candida Bradley: Introducing us to the world of Book Arts

2010-08-24T07:23:00.001-07:00

Welcoming Candida Bradley as our first artist in residence we are becoming immersed in the world of Book Arts. Candida is currently devising a 10 week course open to anyone with an interest in creative bookmaking. The course will give you an opportunity to discover and explore the unique and wonderful world of Book Arts. During the course you will learn to make artist books using a number of different materials and techniques which can be adapted to help you express your own ideas and challenge your imagination. Books produced by students and the tutor will form a local exhibition in December.

The Tate Gallery define artists books as ‘books (normally defined as a number of pages attached to each other in some way) that are wholly or primarily conceived by (though not necessarily actually produced by) an artist and that are made in multiple editions.’

Book Arts bypass the constraints of the gallery – giving the creator complete control. The ‘walls’, or pages, of the book are the limit of your gallery. One can transform the form of a book from how we are accustomed to it, to something much more creative and thought-provoking. By participating in this course your perception of books as objects and as tools for communication, will take you to a completely new level of appreciation for the 'book'.

Brass!

2010-08-19T08:29:00.001-07:00

Don't forget to book your place on the Brass Day before its too full! Go to www.acefoundation.org.uk to book now.

Also coming up, The Musical Brain conference 2010. Robert Schumann: The Man, The Mind, The Music as well as a Book Arts course and a FULL program of music courses for 2011, keep your eyes open!

Tweet!

2010-08-18T08:23:00.001-07:00

The Musical Brain are now on Twitter, if you are a tweeter, follow them!

They have also announced a special deal they have arranged with City Inn for accommodation for the weekend. If you don't know what I am talking about, check on our website!

The Musical Brain 2010 Conference. Robert Schumann: The Man, The Mind, The Music.

End of summer school

2010-08-09T03:24:00.000-07:00

Last week we said goodbye to our American students who have spent an intensive month with us -based at Corpus Christi College, Cambridge- studying British archaeology.

After their assessment was over the students went off to Wiltshire for 5 days to explore the delights of 'ancient Wessex' before heading home.

Whilst we are sad to see them go, we are looking forward to planning similar schools for next year, hopefully with their input and advice.

We hope they found their experience enjoyable and invaluable to their future with archaeology.

Bury Farm building progress

2010-08-05T08:15:00.000-07:00

There are now water tight areas at Bury Farm! Well...ish!

We have a fabulous new roof on some of our buildings and progress continues clearing various areas and determining fixtures and fittings. We can not wait to see it finished! Brick by brick, tile by tile.....

Jazz Photographs

2010-07-16T05:34:00.000-07:00

There are now some photographs from the Jazz Day on Flickr and Facebook. There are a few here too!

Photographs by Trevor Barlow

Thank you Jazz players!

2010-07-08T09:13:00.001-07:00

Thank you to everyone who came on the Jazz Day last Sunday. It was a great success and fantastic to have so many enthusiastic people there. Look out for photo's, video's etc soon to be published and look forward to next years event!

Jazz Day

2010-06-28T03:07:00.001-07:00

Our Jazz Day is on Sunday (4th July) ....if you haven't signed up but would like to come and listen to the results of a days work, please make your way to West Road for 5.30. Entrance is free!

Review - Cambridge Clarinet & Saxophone Day with James Rae

2010-06-11T04:23:00.000-07:00

With many thanks to Stephanie Reeve for writing it, below is a review of our Clarinet & Saxophone Day held in February this year

We are also extremely grateful to Peter Lefort for producing a video of the event which can be found on our facebook page or on youtube (Video). As can more photos!

Cambridge Clarinet & Saxophone Day, 28th February 2010

Cambridge is historically a city of culture and education attracting thousands of students and tourists each year and on a quiet Sunday in February 120 single reed enthusiasts descended on the city sporting clarinets and saxes of all different sizes all set to take part in a day packed full of playing, rehearsing, advice and enjoyment directed by James Rae. Sawston Village College hosted what was possibly the largest ever gathering of single reeds certainly in Cambridge, possibly in East Anglia. As well as Cambridgeshire and surrounding counties participants had also travelled from as far away as Kent and Stafford. The star attraction was of course Jim Rae and as the main tutor Jim was supported by course director Trevor Barlow and a team of ten local clarinet and saxophone tutors. The main focus was the single reed choir and the day began with Jim expertly guiding players through a wide range of his own pieces and arrangements as well as other specially commissioned arrangements from Jon Halton. Parts were arranged for grades 1 and 2 right up to grade 8 so there was something for everyone. The sound was quite incredible with the theatre organ effect of ‘Organ Interlude’ from Jim’s own Cinerama effectively reverberating around Sawston’s hall followed by News Reel from the same set. James rearranged his Toccata Brilliante, to accommodate all abilities and instruments, whilst Jon Halton’s arrangement of the last movement from Mozart’s 40th Symphony, St Louis Blues and Carol Taylor’s arrangement of Bizet’s Carillon gave everyone a substantial and varied session.

After the break saxes divided into two ensembles, grades 1 to 4, and grades 5 to 8. Local tutors led these groups rehearsing up to three pieces covering a variety of techniques. Jon Halton’s own pieces and arrangements were used here and were very enjoyable. At the same time clarinettists saw an informative presentation by Thomas Dryers-Beers of Wood Wind & Reed on how to choose reeds and mouthpieces. This inspired several participants to upgrade their basic mouthpieces, while others were given confidence to start experimenting with different reeds. Wood Wind & Reed were available throughout the day for participants to try out instruments, buy sheet music and accessories and seek advice.

The lunch break was also packed with activity and the main attraction was the excellent live jazz with Alex Merrit and Josh Ison in the main hall. Those that wanted something a little quieter were able to watch either of the two videos on display in the foyer or refreshment room. The masterclass followed lunch and six students (three each of clarinet and sax) at different levels performed to Jim, ably accompanied by Ralph Woodward. Two played Jim’s own pieces so it was great for them, and for us observers to be able to hear the composer’s own suggestions and advice. Time felt a little short as the six students were heard in an hour but there were some useful suggestions and hopefully all six gained from the experience.

Saxes and clarinets then swapped around with clarinets put through their paces in small groups while saxes watched Thomas’s presentation. It was then back to the large ensemble for a final rehearsal and preparation for the performance. During the last break sax and clarinet quartet Simply Reeds performed in the refreshment room, this time not just hearing Jon’s arrangements but hearing Jon play as he is the bari saxophonist in this quartet. Friends and family were invited to the final concert which featured most of the pieces that had been rehearsed in the massed ensemble. There were a few tired looking players, especially some of the younger pupils but this took nothing away from the enjoyment and fun time had by all.

Jim’s experience and the enthusiasm that participants bring with them ensure that these days are always a success and the musical side of things was the highest standard expected. However a few extra things really stood out for me. Firstly the age range was something like 8 to mid-70s and the general balance of young and not-so-young was something rarely seen in a musical, let alone any other leisure activity. Some adults I spoke to were impressed by the confidence and ability that their younger counterparts demonstrated. Children were not as forthcoming with their views but appeared to be at ease with the mix and I know of at least one younger player who was reassured to see that adults do not always get it right and can struggle with similar difficulties!

Secondly the overall thought and consideration that had gone into every detail of the event made this an exceptional day. The ACE Foundation is already experienced in running a whole host of educational activities but musical events are a new venture for the organisation. Trevor Barlow deserves special mention as course director along with Paul Barnes and Rosemary Bangham whose combined skills, experience and forward planning made sure everything ran smoothly with military precision while enabling the atmosphere to continue buzzing the whole day. The delicious homemade flapjack was yet another memorable touch! The ACE Foundation already has plans well underway to develop an arts centre in Stapleford, just south of Cambridge but in the meantime is continuing to hold events at various venues across Cambridge. Next year’s Clarinet and Saxophone workshop has already been confirmed and will take place at Sawston Village College on 13th February with Jim again directing. Jazz players will also be interested to know that there will be a course featuring Alan Barnes on 4^th July. If it is anything like the Clarinet and Saxophone Day both are highly recommended! 2011 plans include courses for many other instruments which will be published on www.acefoundation.org.uk.

Related Websites

Simply Reeds

Jon Halton has a catalogue of excellent Clarinet and Saxophone Ensembles.

Wood, Wind & Reed

Cambridge Brass Day with Prime Brass

2010-06-02T03:39:00.000-07:00

Flyers are ready. If you don't already have some, please email us with an address.

Cambridge Brass Day with Prime Brass

Date: 21^st November

Time: 9.30 – 5.30 (Concert 4.30)

Venue: Sawston Village College, CB22 3BP

Cost: £45.00

The day is open to all Brass instruments, all grades, all ages. You will play alongside Prime Brass in a mixture of large and small ensembles.

BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL.

Book Now

Hantam Community Education Trust wins a Platinum Impumelelo Award

2010-05-27T02:37:00.000-07:00

One of our long treasured projects lies in the barren lands of the Karoo Desert in South Africa. The Hantam Community Education Trust runs a dedicated education centre providing a safe and rewarding environment from which local children can learn to sustain themselves. The ACE Foundation has been providing bursaries for students since 2002, focusing particularly on helping the younger generations break into their adult lives through access to higher education opportunities.

The Hantam Community Education Trust has created opportunities for hundreds of locals in the dispersed community. Starting with school age children in basic education, HCET has broadened its influence and now works on projects for older children through to adults, covering education, health and vocational skills. Nothing is taken for granted and the students are expected to pay back what they can afford, in order that the next generation can also benefit. All the staff are local and they are clearly dedicated to making sure work is available in the community and is executed to a very high standard.

The selection process for an Impumelelo Award is rigorous and demonstrates that an organisation truly reflects the values of sustainability. The award of R50 000 (approximately £4400.00) was presented by Transnet Foundation at the Impumelelo Innovations 2010 Sustainability Awards in South Africa.

The Hantam Community Education Trust’s work is undoubtedly invaluable and highly commendable and we say huge congratulations on a well earned prize!

Photograph of Lesley Osler – one of the founders of HCET – receiving the Impumelelo Award.

For more information about HCET see our website: www.acefoundation.org.uk/projects/project-hantamcommunity

Brass Day flyers

2010-05-18T06:48:00.001-07:00

Flyers for our Brass Day with Prime Brass are nearly ready. If you wish to receive paper copies for your work place or school, please email us at: ace@acefoundation.org.uk with a postal address and the quantity you require. Posters will also be available.

The Musical Brain

2010-05-17T03:48:00.000-07:00

We wish to draw your attention to an exciting weekend coming up in October this year. On behalf of The Musical Brain we are taking bookings for this inspirational event, which will combine science and music in a dynamic and informative manner. Speakers including Professor John Cox, Dr Jessica Grahn, Dr Katie Overy and Professor Michael Trimble will lead lectures and discussions in the fields of neuroscience, therapy and music. The talks and debates will be illustrated by live concerts and demonstrations by leading musicians such as Ian Brown (piano), James Gilchrist (tenor), Anna Tilbrook (piano), and the Sacconi Quartet.

The Musical Brain is a newly established trust which aims to bring together artists, scientists, teachers, therapists and the public, in original and stimulating environments to examine the effects of music and other art forms upon the human mind, brain and body. The founding of the charity follows the success of a pilot event they held in 2009 with the Nash Ensemble. There was such an enthusiastic response that it was determined permanent efforts should be made to support and promote this invaluable field of study. The 2010 conference, which takes place on the weekend of October 2/3, has as its theme Robert Schumann - the man, the Mind, the Music, and coincides with the great composer's 200th anniversary. Keep an ear out for further events.

Bookings at: www.acefoundation.org.uk/courses

The English Song Weekend

2010-05-12T04:07:00.000-07:00

This event promoted by the Finzi Friends will be held between the 3rd & 6th June 2010. For further information see the Finzi Friends website: www.finzifriends.org.uk/events

Last Place on British Archaeology Summer School.

2010-05-06T07:03:00.000-07:00

Our Summer School on the 6th July - 6th August this year is looking for one more American or Canadian student to attend. For details of the course see: www.acefoundation.org.uk/courses. To apply please enquire at ace@acefoundation.org.uk.

Brigitte Beraha at the Cambridge Jazz Day

2010-05-05T07:48:00.000-07:00

We are very excited to welcome Brigitte Beraha, top international jazz vocalist, as our singing coach for our Jazz Day on the 4th July. Don't forget to sign up on our webiste: www.acefoundation.org.uk/courses.

For more information about Brigitte see her website: www.brigitteberaha.com.

Hills Road Sixth Form College South African Exchange - fundraising news

2010-05-04T09:12:00.001-07:00

Follow the link below to see the fundraising update for this local project.

http://www.hillsroadafricalink.paperviewer.co.uk/

Rhythm Required

2010-04-13T08:23:00.000-07:00

Our Jazz Day with Alan Barnes is filling up nicely but we need more rhythm! If you know a double bass, drum, or piano player who might be interested in joining us for this unique experience please direct them to: www.acefoundation.org.uk/courses/course-jazzday.

Concert at Hills Road: Fundraising for their South African connections

2010-03-18T04:48:00.000-07:00

On Thursday 25th March, Hills Road Sixth Form College are holding a fundraising concert for their South African exchange school. The concert is at the college starting at 7.30pm in the recital room. The concert will be jazz focused and the programme includes Sing,Sing,Sing starring BBC young Musician of the year finalist Lucy Landimore, Children of Sanchez by Chuck Manjione, Four Brothers and vocal features Flashdance and the Look of Love. We would love to see you there and help contribute to their efforts and bring the choir of the Ndamase secondary school to the UK, which will, no doubt, result in another excellent concert!

Cambridge Clarinet & Saxophone Day Photographs

2010-03-16T03:32:00.001-07:00

Thank you for putting up with the people with the cameras all those who attended this day. If you look up 'The ACE Foundation' on flickr OR facebook you can now find pictures from the event.

Below is a short review of the day for those who were unaware of its existence:

The Henry Morris Hall was bursting at the seams as 120 Clarinet and Saxophone players came to Sawston for a play day organised by Trevor Barlow and the ACE Foundation on Sunday 28^th February.

Players from all over East Anglia and London came to the College to form what must have been the biggest Single Reed Choir in the region with guest star James Rae directing his own Toccata Brilliante and Cinerama Suite.

From aged 8 to nearly 80 and from beginner to advanced the day offered large and small group sessions with specially arranged music by James Rae and Jon Halton, a master class, free lunchtime Jazz, Quartet recital, trade stands from Wood, Wind and Reed plus plenty of expert guidance from James Rae.

Each player had a suitable part written for their ability and instrument.

The complete Clarinet family was represented from the small e flat clarinet through to the Contra bass whilst the Saxophone section boasted 8 baritone saxophones!

This day is to be one of many partnerships with the ACE Foundation (www.acefoundation.org.uk) including such future events as a Jazz Day with Alan Barnes at West Road Concert Hall on 4^th July and Brass Day with Prime Brass at SVC on 21^st November.

Prime Brass and Polish Heroes

2010-03-15T10:07:00.000-07:00

Trevor & Paul of the ACE Foundation attended an excellent concert by Prime Brass (The Cambridge Brass Ensemble due to host our Brass Day on the 21st November) on Friday Night. The Polish Heroes represented in their repertoire included Lutoslawski, whom Prime Brass's founder unorthodoxly approached to commission a piece for them when he was a student at Cambridge!

Website Update

2010-03-04T08:16:00.000-08:00

You can now book and pay for courses as well as make donations online via paypal: www.acefoundation.org.uk.

British Archaeology Summer School - last chance

2010-03-03T02:38:00.000-08:00

Our deadline approaches, the course is nearly full, please, if you have been considering applying do so NOW! Set in the beautiful site of Corpus Christi College it is definitely an opportunity not to be missed.

We now have a list of lecture titles and the field trip itinerary available detailing the lectures related to human origins, preagricultural communities, the Romans, method and theory of archaeology, Anglo Saxons, medieval life, invasions, landscapes, ceremonies, settlements and much more. The field trip includes visits to various cathedrals, medieval sites, stone age sites and a variety of others related to the course content.

If you wish to look into the details. Please email: archaeology@acefoundation.org.uk.

Polish Heroes

2010-03-02T07:39:00.000-08:00

Keystage Company, a local drama group, are recognising Polish Heroes this month.

Yesterday (1st March) would have been Chopin's 200th birthday and this was celebrated with a piano recital and talk at the opening of the Polish Heroes exhibition held at the Emmanuel United Reformed Church in Cambridge. They are holding various other events throughout this month, including a concert by Prime Brass; the brass ensemble ACE is working with for a workshop in November.

For more information about the events take a look at their blog: keystage.wordpress.com/

Clarinet & Saxophone Day Success

2010-03-01T05:57:00.000-08:00

Thank you to those of you who attended the Clarinet & Saxophone Day at Sawston Village College yesterday.

Thanks to everyone's hard work and cooperation the day ran smoothly and reports from participants and tutors were very complimentary. James Rae was impressed with all the performances and everybody seemed to have learnt new skills and enjoyed their time.

We will publish photos and a full review here soon!

Nature at Bury Farm

2010-02-25T05:59:00.000-08:00

We discovered the remains of an old orchard at the back of of our new site at Bury Farm. Underneath the ivy is a good collection of apple and prunus trees. Under the expert guidance of local conservationist, Kevin Hand, we plan to turn the area into a small nature reserve. In some places, where the health of the trees was threatened, the ivy has been cut back. In others, the ivy has been left and will provide excellent cover for nesting birds. Kevin recommended that most dead branches can be left in situ to encourage insect life and fungi. Some thinning has also taken place and the cut branches and vegetation formed into small stacks, which will provide ideal habitats for other insects and small mammals.

British Archaeology Summer School

2010-02-15T03:06:00.001-08:00

There are still a few spaces left on this unique and excellent course. The deadline is the 31st of March so hurry up and apply for your place. For more details see: www.acefoundation.org.uk/courses

First Step to Freedom

2010-02-10T04:14:00.000-08:00

This year it is the 20th anniversary of Nelson Mandela's (Madiba's) release from prison. In celebration e.TV, one of the big television broadcasting stations for South Africa, have commissioned a documentary called First Step to Freedom broadcast tonight in South Africa and hopefully soon, worldwide. croc E moses - some of you may remember from his gig on the 17th December last year - was commissioned to write the opening song, called we don't see and sung by Alice Matthews.

http://www.etv.co.za/extended/about/first_step_to_freedom

Clarinet & Saxophone Day SOLD OUT!

2010-02-03T02:46:00.001-08:00

Our Clarinet & Saxophone Day with James Rae is a sell out!

Whilst pleased with this success we apologise to those of you who have not made a booking, but encourage you to consider the Jazz Day instead whilst spaces are still available.

Getting into Farming

2010-01-27T03:50:00.000-08:00

Since we have bought a farm it seems appropriate that we should get into farming....

...actually we are just looking for somewhere to house our beautiful farm machinery. Whilst we will retain some smaller items, within the upstairs room there is a large machine called a dresser. Made by Robert Boby Ltd, an agricultural factory that was based in Bury St Edmunds, it is a local artefact for which we would like to find a new home. It probably dates from the 1940s-50s and we think was in use until about 1980.

We have approached the Folk Museum in Cambridge as well as the Farm Museum at Denny Abbey and the Museum of East Anglian Life. We hope one of these places will be able to house it and illustrate its history appropriately. However, should any of our readers be in the position to take up this conservation challenge please do get in touch before it is too late.

www.folkmuseum.org.uk

www.dennyfarmlandmuseum.org.uk

www.eastanglianlife.org.uk

Support Prospect Burma - Book Auction

2010-01-25T09:25:00.001-08:00

Since 1992 the ACE Foundation has made a number of donations to Prospect Burma to assist with educational programmes. We wish to support them now by recognising their achievements over the years despite very difficult circumstances, and by offering you an opportunity to make a contribution directly.

Prospect Burma are holding a book auction and have a fascinating collection of literature available. As well-educated, interesting people you might be interested to browse the list and place a bid!

The list of books can be found at www.prospectburma.org and bids made by emailing dan@prospectburma.org.

Cambridge Brass Day

2010-01-21T07:34:00.000-08:00

For those with fast filling diaries write in CAMBRIDGE BRASS DAY WITH PRIME BRASS on the 21st November. All brass instruments welcome, details to follow soon.

Alan Barnes on Radio 4 about Cannonball Adderley

2010-01-20T02:28:00.000-08:00

Ken Clarke's Jazz Greats on Radio 4 hosted Alan Barnes on Cannonball Adderley this week. An interesting show with plenty of music, you can still listen on iplayer until Tuesday 26th Jan 2010. (see link below)

We are looking forward to some of Barnes's talent at our own playing day on 4th July. See www.acefoundation.org.uk/courses, for more details.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b00pxmcx/Ken_Clarkes_Jazz_Greats_Series_8_Cannonball_Adderley/

Promoting music throughout society

2010-01-15T06:33:00.000-08:00

We recognise that many people in the working world today can not commit to regular music lessons or societies due to time constraints. We hope that our day courses will provide for these people. Many companies and businesses cater for this by providing staff welfare services that help their staff to keep up with life outside work. If you know of a company or business in regions in or near to Cambridge who might be interested in promoting our courses to their staff, please contact us at ace@acefoundation.org.uk, and let us know their details.

Christmas Holiday Orchestra

2010-01-07T08:27:00.000-08:00

Our own musical director, Trevor Barlow, was course director for the 2009 Christmas Holiday Orchestra. Not only did he manage to introduce extra special variety to the course, but he also managed to take plenty of photo's! (see our facebook albums for more images)

With ACE sponsoring him Trevor was able to invite Alan Barnes, top Jazz Saxophonist soon to be leading our jazz course, to inspire the children with some awesome playing and a jazz workshop and he invited new conductors and instruments making it an extra special occasion.

The ACE team were able to experience the courses' results at the lunchtime jazz concert where the children performed with Alan Barnes to stupendous effect! It was clear that everyone, including Alan, benefited from the experience and thoroughly enjoyed themselves.

Professor Sir Paul Mellars

2010-01-06T02:31:00.000-08:00

The ACE Foundation congratulates their chairman, Professor Paul Mellars, on receiving a knighthood in the New Year's honours list for his services to scholarship and archaeology.

Happy New Year!

2010-01-05T08:24:00.000-08:00

To all our blog readers and ACE supporters we wish you the best for 2010.

Don't forget to sign up to the Cambridge Clarinet & Saxophone Day and the Jazz Day with Alan Barnes before its too late!

Winters Greetings

2009-12-18T09:12:00.001-08:00

Wishing you a cosy winter time! From the ACE Foundation.

For more photographs of Bury Farm in the snow, please see our albums on facebook.

magic word: magic night

2009-12-18T05:20:00.000-08:00

Thank you all those who attended the Magic Word event in December, it was certainly a magical occasion.

It is undoubtedly challenging getting together an audience for something you can't easily describe, and even more so when its forecast for snow! Thankfully our audience were not perturbed by the predicted weather conditions and the snow only added to the magic!

On entering people were unassuming and apprehensive perhaps, the intrepid explorers became more intrepid and by the last few, they were definitely snowmen!

The different acts proved suitably varied and provoked mixed responses. An unusual collection, the acts all sparked the audiences imaginations with croc E moses proving to be a substantial success all round! With lighting, music, moves and words all carefully choreographed and lovingly crafted it was a performance like no other.

In just a few hours so many transformations occurred. Not only was everyone much clearer on what it was they had come to see, and that they would recommend most of it to their friends, but the world outside had translated the magic into a white carpet over EVERYTHING!

Truly a night to remember.

Jazz Day with Alan Barnes

2009-12-17T02:13:00.001-08:00

Plans are in motion, this inspirational day is booked for 4th July at West Road Concert Hall, Cambridge.

Alan Barnes, a favourite British saxophonist, will be leading the day and all of you will be following and taking your own tangents! All players of any jazz-friendly instrument are invited so long as they have a minimum of grade 3 reading skills. More masterclasses and lunchtime jazz sessions are all included.

To find out more go to: www.acefoundation.org.uk.

For flyers contact: ace@acefoundation.org.uk

Attingham Trust update

2009-12-16T02:01:00.001-08:00

Since 2005 we have annually sponsored a European student to attend the Attingham Trust Summer School in the UK.

This is a three-week intensive course which explores country houses, their collections and their relation to their landscape, all in the context of todays world. Aimed at professional in the field of collections and display it attracts an interesting selection of people all with different experiences and knowledge. The responses to the course are always inspirational and reinforce the excellence of the program which includes field specialists and privileged visits to Britain's heritage houses.

The 2010 course will run from 2nd-20th July and will give the scholars an opportunity to visit 25 historic houses.

The Attingham Trust run two other annual courses; the Royal Collection Studies course and the Study Program. These are shorter more specialised programs.

Photographs from the Attingham Trust

National Youth Jazz Collective

2009-12-15T01:47:00.000-08:00

A small course we went to in December resulted in a fantastic blast of jazz and confirmed that people do just want to play! And to learn!

The ACE Foundation also made a small contribution to the course.

Photographs by Trevor Barlow

ACE Study Tours. New brochure.

2009-12-14T01:52:00.001-08:00

Its that time of year again! The ACE Study Tour brochure is now out! Call 01223 835 055 to request a paper copy or search for your perfect trip at: www.acestudytours.co.uk

British Archaeology Summer School

2009-12-11T01:57:00.000-08:00

In July 2010 a fleet of students will arrive from America and Canada ready to experience the delights of Cambridge and the heritage of Britain.

At Corpus Christi's request, the ACE Foundation are directing the school, planning out their stay and ensuring they will have the most appropriate cultural experience.

It is a four-week long program where the students will be introduced to the archaeology of Britain by top Cambridge Professors and specialists. They will stay within Corpus' own accommodation and the course includes a four-day trip to Wessex when they will visit the iconic sites of archaeological wonder.

Running such trips is nothing new for ACE in the 60's & 70's similar programs were devised by, what was then, the Association for Cultural Exchange again for American Students. These were a huge success so we dug out the archives to inspire us for this one! Obviously there were a few things that needed updating....!

The Cambridge Clarinet & Saxophone Day

2009-12-10T01:25:00.001-08:00

We are now taking bookings for this popular event. If you are a clarinet or sax player of any age and any ability call us quickly on 01223 499 707 to book your place!

(See further down the page for more details!)

magic word: a night of words in many guises

2009-12-04T14:37:00.000-08:00

Thursday 17th December - 19.30 doors 20.00 startACE are underwriting this delicious winter occasion featuring 3 wordsmiths at the Junction, Cambridge. The event features Hollie McNish, formerly of Reading, now of Cambridge; croc E moses, from Canada, Swaziland and South Africa; and Cultivater, a local Cambridge duo.
The event is multicultural and mixes genres. There will be a post gig workshop on the weekend and 25% of proceeds will got to Gone Rural boMake in Swaziland. Tickets can be purchased from the Junction at: junction.co.uk.

HRSFC and Ndamase Secondary School

2009-12-03T01:12:00.000-08:00

This North-South exchange program, between Hills Road Sixth Form College, Cambridge and Ndamase Secondary School, Eastern Cape, South Africa, has been trying to raise funds for the Ndamase choir to come to Cambridge. The initial intention was to bring the choir over for the annual carol concert but the visit has had to be postponed to 2010. The idea of the exchange is to encourage both schools to look beyond their immediate surroundings and engage in global issues. The fundraising being instigated now will also go towards a Solar Connect Project which aims to introduce solar powered PCs to the Eastern Cape Schools, allowing communication through the internet via the mobile phone grid. If you would like to make a contribution or find out more about events please contact the college directly at: cwelander@hillsroad.ac.uk.

Aldeburgh Music

2009-12-02T03:42:00.001-08:00

The ACE team went on a little jaunt to Aldeburgh in November to see how things are done at Snape Maltings. It was a beautiful day and we thoroughly enjoyed our tour round the site and then a short stroll along the beach. We went in light of what might or might not happen at Bury Farm and met Mr Jonathan Reekie the Chief Executive of Aldeburgh Music to discuss with him our ideas. The day was a great refresher, helping to clarify our ideas and strategies.

For further photos see our facebook page.

Sketches of Bury Farm

2009-11-20T03:20:00.001-08:00

Since developing our plans at Bury Farm, the ACE Foundation has been submitting articles to the local newsletter in Stapleford, the Stapleford Messenger. Last month we made a request for any photographs of the site from when it was still a working farm. Whilst photo's seem to be lost, June Heafford sent us these beautiful sketches of the site.

New Hall College Art Collection

2009-11-20T03:13:00.000-08:00

Cambridge Sculpture Trail

In preparation for a visiting Chinese Orchestra in Summer 2011 Trevor Barlow and Rosemary Bangham of the ACE Foundation went to visit Murray Edwards (formerly known as New Hall) College to explore their facilities. We were delighted with the site and were reminded that there is a magnificent art collection at the college as well as an exciting Sculpture Trail around Cambridge. If you get a chance it is well worth a look!

http://www.art.newhall.cam.ac.uk/

http://www.cambridgesculpturetrails.co.uk/

Hills Road Sixth Form College South African Exchange

2009-11-20T02:59:00.000-08:00

The HRSFC netball team with students at the Ndamase Secondary School 2008

The Cambridge Sixth Form College has, for a number of years, had an exchange program with the Ndamase Secondary School in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Exchange is mostly based on running events in parallel at the respective schools but has also involved the HRSFC netball team visiting them in South Africa. This year it was decided that the Ndamase School choir should come over to England to sing with HRSFC for their annual carol concert. Naturally the differing economic climates of the two countries favours travel in the other direction so HRSFC and the Ndamase school have been actively fundraising in order to effect the exchange. The ACE Foundation have made a contribution to their efforts but they are still short. If anyone wishes to make a contribution please contact us at ACE and we will put you in touch with the college.

Children at the Ndamase Secondary School dancing 2008

The Martyrdom of Latimer - Adam Pounds

2009-11-17T03:03:00.000-08:00

One damp and dark Autumn evening the ACE team went on a little excursion up to Ely to experience the world premiere of the Martyrdom of Latimer, a dramatic composition by Stapleford's very own composer, Adam Pounds. In this magnificent setting the success of the piece was magnified tenfold, congratulations Adam!

Something natural

2009-11-17T02:52:00.000-08:00

Looking through this page it would be easy to forget that the ACE Foundation is not just about music! Our subject portfolio covers art, design, architecture, music, archaeology, history, development, science, and the natural world too! One of our ACE Study Tour course directors, natural historian Kevin Hand spent a Sunday afternoon on site at Bury Farm exploring the current habitat and thinking about how we could create a wildlife sanctuary there. Given the ditch at the bottom of the site we are thinking of allowing a little wetland area to develop.... what might you spot whilst sipping a mocha and watching the world go by....?

Picture - Our Wilderness at Bury Farm

Barcodes - Science and Music at School

2009-11-17T02:44:00.000-08:00

Once you've thought about it, it makes some sense! Why not teach science with music? Paul Brooke Barnes, ACE Foundation General Secretary, went along to the final concert produced by four Cambridgeshire schools, a composer and two scientists. They were exploring the correlations between DNA and Music sequences, how both can be repeated, mutated, reflected and varied. A great addition to the Cambridge Music Festival we thought.

Cambridgeshire Primary Schools Singing Network

2009-11-16T03:37:00.000-08:00

The ACE Foundation sponsored the venue for this very successful concert. The achievement of the children and their coaches was incredible, well done all round!

Thank you

2009-11-09T06:43:00.001-08:00

A big thank you to Great & Little Shelford C of E Primary School for raising £500.00 to go to the Mathieson Music School in Calcutta.

Picture from the Mathieson Music School

Progress at Bury Farm

2009-11-09T06:35:00.000-08:00

Measurements are being made, grounds are being cleared. Excitement still mounting!

ACE Foundation

A Busy Weekend!

Horn Day with Tony Halstead

Photos!

Orchestral Day.

Why Music? Is Music Different from the Other Arts?

Orchestral Day.

Music Courses.

Literature Courses

The Musical Brain- Arts, Science & the Mind, Conference 2011

Photos!

A Forest of Bassoons & a Choir of Clarinets

String Day Photos.

Ever fancied writing a short story or even a novel?

Flute Day flight of the Bumblebee now on Facebook!

NOW BOOKING! Playwriting with Fraser Grace

Thank You Flautists!

String Day Success!

String Day - Violins grade 4 to 8 sold out!

Clarinet & Saxophone Day

Between the Books.

Calling all Viola Players

Artist Lesley Fotherby - Paintings of Clarinet & Saxophone day and Brass Day.

Thank You Clarinet & Saxophone Players!

Thank you to those of you who attended the Clarinet & Saxophone Day at Sawston Village College yesterday.

Lucy Bunce Concert.

Exhibition in aid of Alive and Kicking-Stapleford

ACE Foundation Book

ACE composition scholar - Concert

Book...

Book Art Exhibition moving to Shelford

A blog link about our Book Art exhibition

Flyers and surprises!

For jazz players:

Brass Day review. By Trevor Barlow

Music Courses 2011

As some of you have already noticed, we are now taking bookings for 5 of our 2011 courses.

Courses currently booking:Clarinet & Sax with James Rae - 13 FebruaryString with Steve Bingham - 13 MarchFlute with Ian Clarke - 27 MarchBassoon with Philip Turbett - 10 AprilClarinet Ensemble with James Rae - 10 April

Details of these courses can be found on our website: http://www.acefoundation.org.uk/courses/music.html

Book Arts Exhibition: Between the Books.

Other music events

Robert Schumann: The Man, The Mind, The Music - 2010 conference

Jazz Day video

Principles of Primary School Design - Book Launch

Attingham Scholar 2010

The Musical Brain update

Sign up! Sign up! ACE Foundation newsletter!

BOOK ARTS | BOOK NOW!

Candida Bradley: Introducing us to the world of Book Arts

Brass!

Tweet!

End of summer school

Bury Farm building progress

Jazz Photographs

Thank you Jazz players!

Jazz Day

Review - Cambridge Clarinet & Saxophone Day with James Rae

Cambridge Brass Day with Prime Brass

Hantam Community Education Trust wins a Platinum Impumelelo Award

Brass Day flyers

The Musical Brain

The English Song Weekend

Last Place on British Archaeology Summer School.

Brigitte Beraha at the Cambridge Jazz Day

Hills Road Sixth Form College South African Exchange - fundraising news

Rhythm Required

Concert at Hills Road: Fundraising for their South African connections

Cambridge Clarinet & Saxophone Day Photographs

Prime Brass and Polish Heroes

Website Update

British Archaeology Summer School - last chance

Polish Heroes

Clarinet & Saxophone Day Success

Nature at Bury Farm

British Archaeology Summer School

First Step to Freedom

Clarinet & Saxophone Day SOLD OUT!

Getting into Farming

Support Prospect Burma - Book Auction

Cambridge Brass Day

Courses currently booking:

Clarinet & Sax with James Rae - 13 February
String with Steve Bingham - 13 March
Flute with Ian Clarke - 27 March
Bassoon with Philip Turbett - 10 April
Clarinet Ensemble with James Rae - 10 April