Joyful music

Last night was the first rehearsal, such as it was, of the Baroque ensemble I mentioned a couple of weeks ago. At the moment it consists mostly of recorders of all shapes and sizes (I really had no idea there were so many!), but there is also a harpsichord (last night however the chap was playing on a fortepiano), a harp, a bassoon, a ye olde style wooden flute, and the person running the thing, Claire, who is a cellist. One of the great things about being a violist is that people are so happy to see you- Claire spent much of the evening expressing her joy at having a viola there, and how important the viola was in Baroque music. Happy days! We just sight read some simple music by Purcell and Handel, and it was odd playing in the Baroque style, with the weird bow grip and no vibrato. I really enjoyed it and felt energised by even simple music in a way I haven't felt for probably 4 years. The prospect of chamber ensembles- MY FAVOURITE!!!!- is also dangling, with Claire saying she is extremely keen to have some up and running. The main thing now is that we really need more string players! At least 3 violins, another viola and another cello would be ideal, and she's also working on getting a bass. I really want this group to work out, because I think it could be really amazing, so please, any Fife string players out there, get in touch, or spread the word!