F.A.Q.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to have my own instrument?

Do I have to be able to read music?

Do I have to join Glasgow Fiddle Workshop?

Which class should I join?

Can I move into another class?

What children's classes do you have?

Can I hang around whilst my child is in class?

Can I get food/drink at the College?

Do GFW have regular music sessions?

Can I get more involved with GFW?

What can I do if I'm not happy about anything?

 

Do I have to have my own instrument?

You don't need your own fiddle or bodhran as we can lend you these for the first few weeks. These are the only instruments that we have - for all other classes you have to bring your own. There are a couple of music shops in Glasgow who operate a "rent to play" scheme whereby you rent the instrument for a certain length of time and then you have the option to purchase it. Speak to a member of the Committee or staff at the GFW stall in the Enterprise Suite at Stow before class for more information.

 

Do I have to be able to read music?

No. All GFW classes are taught by ear. This means you will be taught note recognition and to hear the notes and phrases of tunes in your head. You will get to know where they are on your instrument without written music.

Some music notation may be provided at the discretion of the individual class tutors and this will be for use outwith class time. Beginners' classes may receive handouts on music notation and chords to assist them in learning note recognition.

 

Do I have to join Glasgow Fiddle Workshop?

You do not have to become a Member to attend the classes. There are, however, benefits of becoming a Member! These include membership card; discounted weekly subscription, discounts for /workshop days, outings and events; slow fiddle session CD each year; reduced rate back copies of slow fiddle session CDs. In the future we also hope to produce a new handbook and have regular member newsletters. Details of membership .

 

Which class should I join?

For fiddle classes, have a look at the syllabus for each class. You can change classes if you need to, so don't worry about being committed to classes at the wrong level.

If you are in any doubt as to which class to choose please discuss this with any of the GFW tutors during the "Meet the Tutor" time - 7 to 8 pm on Registration nights - or prior to class during term time.

We have class guidelines for new members of the fiddle classes - these are on our website or you can pick up a copy at the GFW stall in the Enterprise Suite at Stow on class nights.

As all teaching is by ear, your ability is based on how quickly you can pick up tunes.

 

Can I move into another class?

Yes, you can. However, you must let your Tutor know that you are doing this as he/she will need to amend the class register accordingly. This is really important as the registers are used for roll calls in the event of an emergency evacuation of the building.

 

What children's classes do you have?

We have childrens' classes in fiddle, guitar, cello, whistle and percussion. If your child is 8 years old and above they can join our beginners' fiddle class. If they already play either fiddle or another instrument they can join our other classes. Childrens' classes are paid for in advance and children must be members of GFW. This is so that we can keep parents informed of events.

We have registered with Disclosure Scotland and vetted all our tutors. We now have a Child Protection Policy which will be made accessible to, and copied, to all tutors/parents and volunteers with GFW.

Can I hang around whilst my child is in class?

Yes, you can. You will have to sign your child in as present prior to the class and then sign them out when the class is finished. The childrens' register is located in the Enterprise Suite. We also ask that parents who aren't staying leave a note of an emergency contact number next to their child's name on the register.

 

Can I get food/drink at the College?

Yes. There are vending machines on every floor. The College shop is located on the ground floor and is open until 6pm every day. (As you come into the College foyer go through the double doors on the left hand side of the reception desk and the shop is situated on the right). GFW currently has a break during class at 8.30pm when tea/coffee/biscuits are available. To help with the cost we ask for a small donation - there is usually a collection plate on the table next to the drinks! At the end of the break please put your rubbish in the bins provided as this helps the organisers to get back to their own classes quicker!

 

Do GFW have regular music sessions?

Yes. After Wednesday night classes we have a session in Laurie's Bar, 34 King Street, Glasgow G1. King Street is situated between Bridgegate (off Clyde Street) and Argyle Street (Trongate). GFW also organise end-of-term sessions, ceilidhs, workshops, etc. Details of up-and-coming events are available on our website or at the GFW stall.

 

Can I get more involved with GFW?

Yes, you can. We are always looking for helpers at the various events we run. For the first few weeks of term you will recognise all GFW committee members and staff as they will be wearing badges. You will get to know their faces and what they do. Committee meetings are held monthly or at more regular times if the need arises. The annual AGM is held in May of each year and attendance is encouraged to find out more of what's going on. If you have commitment and can spare the time you may be interested in becoming a GFW Committee Member.

 

What can I do if I'm not happy about anything?

I n the first instance any complaints should be addressed to our Administrator at Glasgow Fiddle Workshop, Studio 13 St. George's Studios, 93-97 St. George's Road, Glasgow who will assess the situation. If it can't be resolved quickly then the Administrator will discuss it further with the committee.

Fortunately, complaints are rare. We would, however, be pleased to deal with any real concerns or changes in individual's circumstances as they arise.

We hope we have answered any queries you may have about coming along to Glasgow Fiddle Workshop. If you have any further questions please see a member of staff or committee member who will be more than happy to help.

Glasgow Fiddle Workshop,
Studio 13 St. St. George's Studio, 93-97 St. George's Road, Glasgow G3 6JA
Telephone: 0141-331 0606
Scottish Charity No SC029502