sea

Exploring music written about the sea

This month we are celebrating the sea, and the music we that is written about the sea.

This list is a few of the diverse pieces written from more recent centuries, and it is also a playlist on youtube. Click the link at the bottom to read about each piece while listening to them too.

Feel free to comment and add your own favourites in the comments box - what have I missed out?

Prelude in G, Op 28, no.3, Chopin

Used in the BBC adaptation of Persuasion which features the sea-faring exploits of Captain Wentworth, this Chopin prelude seems to capture the ever moving and reflecting water which is present in so many Sea themed compositions.

Sirèns, Debussy, ‘La Mer’

Would it be the sea if a composer wasn’t writing about mermaids or Sirens luring sailors to their death? Here Debussy writes soaring melismas for the choir to represent those other-worldly creatures.

O Waly waly - Britten, Folk Song Arrangements

This folk song and arrangement is a favourite with me and many of my pupils. The technical aspects of performing are matched by the job of the performer to be a supreme storyteller.

4 Sea Interludes: Storm, Britten, ‘Peter Grimes’

There were 4 sea interludes to choose from, and I chose the storm as we haven’t had any music yet that really captures the strength and danger of the sea.

Here Britten really uses his powers of orchestration and melody to suggest the crashing sea on rocks, spray, wind, and surge.

My Gallant Crew, Sullivan, ‘HMS Pinafore’

As much as we respect the sea, we also enjoy satire and gently poking fun at authority and those in power. In this Sullivan song from HMS Pinafore the Navy and privilege are gently mocked.

Leave Her Johnny, Sea Shanty, ‘Assasins Creed’

The Shanty tradition is alive and well in this shanty used in the ‘Assasins Creed’ computer games. In recent years a sea shanty went viral as young people on tiktok enjoyed the art form and recorded their own performances.

La Mer, performed by Charles Trenet

To finish, we have French singer Chalres Trenet with his celebration of holidays and beach life. His rendition sums up the hot summer relaxing by the ocean.

Back to School- Tips for a new term of Music Lessons

Preparing for a New Term - are you ready?

“The only place where success comes before work is in the dictionary”

— Vidal Sassoon

1. Prepare

Whether returning to a teacher or beginning a whole new course somewhere new, you will have some idea what is expected. Check up on the syllabus, read up about your new teacher to understand their training and experience.

Begin practice in advance to make sure you have stamina and some strength ahead of the demands of rehearsals, lessons and performances - the term can get busy fast!

2. Make a schedule

Make a practice diary - work out your schedule. Mark out your weekly lessons, lectures and classes so they are all in your diary. Add alarm reminders if this is helpful!

If you know you practice better in the morning or in the afternoon, try work this in to your schedule.

Leave space for everyday life tasks too - gym, running, if you work or do a teaching job or another job to fund your studies.

I know I study better if my workspace is clean and tidy, with no distractions! So I often schedule this into my day.

And of course… leave lots of space for socialising or to switch things around if new things are scheduled.

3. Keep track of Deadlines

If you don’t already have an electronic system/diary, investigate ways of linking your email and calendar so you can keep track of performances, and essay due dates. Use whatever version that best suits you whether digital or pen and paper, or a combination.

4. Tailor your Study Habits and Prepare Study Resources

I know I am a visual learner - but what about you? What will help you learn?

If you know memorising is easier if you write things out or use different coloured pens/paper, make sure you have these things ready to go. This is your chance to indulge your stationery dreams and buy things like a new highlighter for your notes and scores!

If you work digitally with music, make sure your equipment is ready to go, you have a good case for your tablet, a nice feeling pen holder for your electronic pen, and your computer/laptop have plenty of memory for new music, and back up options to charge everything.

Has your teacher been asking you to look at a particular score or to practice a particular technique?… Do this now. Don’t put it off!

5. Find a Healthy Balance

Lastly, your new course/term is likely to take up a lot of your time, but don’t forget to plan and enjoy life outside of this.

I’ve already mentioned planning your fitness regime in to your timetable, or maybe plan to begin one! There is nothing more stress relieving than exercise, a walk is a simple way to start.

Remember to carry on with any hobbies you have and maybe even consider starting something new. Your life is enriched by your diverse experiences, and this includes experiences outside of your study.

Best of luck to everyone starting a new term, I hope these few tips help you feel organised and ready for success in your music making.

How do you like to prepare? Have I missed anything out? Comment below with your favourite tip.

As we head into the autumn, I’m starting to prepare for a new school and University Year. No one likes those ‘Sunday Night’ feelings, so make yourself a hydrating cup of something, sit down with a notebook, and let’s work through some top tips to start your new year of music lessons off with lots of energy and focus.