Richard Burnett demonstrating

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It is not just the beautiful Georgian manor house of Finchcocks and its surroundings that makes a visit to the museum so rewarding; it is also the opportunity to study and play some of the most important historical pianos, harpsichords, organs and clavichords in the country - all guided by our skilled educational team headed by international harpsichordist Steven Devine.

Finchcocks is one of the few musical museums in Europe which allows visitors to play the instruments. Many of ours are in full working order and keyboard players of all ages and abilities gain unforgettable experience playing instruments identical to those the famous composers knew. Even non-players find their appreciation of music enhanced by a visit.

DATES

From mid-March up to Christmas, on most days apart from Mondays. Visits may be in the morning or afternoon. TIMINGS These depend very much on the age and requirements of the group.A minimum of two hours is recommended.

AGE/LEVEL

Our educational team can structure educational visits to any age group or ability level - primary, secondary or further. We are very happy to focus on any areas of your curiculum or special project. Please discuss this with us before your visit if you would like to concentrate on a certain period or theme.

YOUR VISIT

Educational visits to Finchcocks usually include a short demonstration/recital on the instruments in the main hall, followed by opportunity to look round the rest of the museum and a chance for your own playing with guidance from our tutors. More advanced pupils can receive personal tuition or a master class. The visit can end with a short informal concert given by the players in the group. You are welcome to bring any additional instruments. It is very important that the whole group enjoys the visit and feels included in the musical experience.

SPECIAL EVENTS

Concerts for and by children are an important part of our programme and details of these are found in our annual leaflets. There are also regular courses and master classes for different musical levels and an annual Open Day for Pianists - in 2010 this will be October 17.

CATERING

If meals are required, then these need to be ordered in advance, with the same menu for the whole group - see our menu sheet. Picnics are allowed in the grounds and can also be brought into the cellar restaurant. Cakes, biscuits, ice-cream, crisps and drinks can be bought without reservation. please discuss your requirements with us when you are planning the visit.

THE SHOP

The attractive Finchcocks shop sells recordings made in the museum and a selection of inexpensive gifts, many on a musical theme. There is an ancillary music shop in a separate building which sells a wide selection of second-hand music at very low prices.

CHARGES

All the educational vists to Finchcocks are supported by The Finchcocks Charity for Musical Education so the charges are kept as low as possible.

However, we can adapt out charges depending on the resources of the group. Payment for an educational visit to “The Finchcocks Charity”

BOOKING ARRANGEMENTS

Please confirm your reservation with the return of the booking form. There is no deposit for standard bookings but there is a £5.00 non-returnable booking charge.