Educational
As one of the leading international resource centres for the study of historical keyboard instruments, we are unique in offering opportunities for groups and individuals to explore the Collection.
As one of the leading international resource centres for the study of historical keyboard instruments, we are unique in offering opportunities for groups and individuals to explore the Collection.
School and College Visits
We have given many hundreds of presentations to schools and colleges over the years. For schools this can be a general introduction to the history of keyboard instruments with many practical demonstrations, or it can be more specific, focusing on more physical aspects, such as "how is the sound produced?" with examples of clavichords, harpsichords and pianos. College visits can also be geared to more specific repertoire areas e.g. "The London Piano School". We are very well connected to many specialists who can assist with such presentations. Educational groups are offered the opportunity to explore the instruments for themselves. There is always expert guidance at hand to allow students to make the most of the experience. Many groups finish their visits with an informal music making recital by the players in their group. Research students are also encouraged to come and use the collection for their thesis or specific projects.
Masterclasses and Open Day for Pianists
For advanced and talented students we offer the chance to explore in depth their repertoire on the appropriate historical instrument. Our masterclasses are given by members of our skilled team or can be led by guest professors from the major London music schools and colleges. This outlines educational projects available to all ages and levels of ability. Our skilled and experienced team are able to accommodate your project or study areas.
Adult Education
We have given presentations to many different types of groups, Art Societies, University of Third Age, PROBUS, amongst others—and these have ranged from a general overview of the Collection to specifical—ly themed programmes, for example "Jane Austen's Music" and "Schubert and the Viennese Piano". We have specifically run workshops for adult pianists and teachers to explore all aspects of the Collection, and perform on the sort of instruments the composers would have known.
Individual Study
We are keen to encourage visits from PHD students and serious music enthusiasts who are wanting to expand on their knowledge of certain repertoire, instrumental technicalities and research projects. There are a number of bursaries available to support this kind of study. We have a library with a vast amount of books detailing the history of the keyboard instrument, composers' letters and instrument builders. Please contact us for more details.
Book Catalogue
The Richard Burnett collection also includes a substantial selection of musical books covering themes of keyboard construction, letters from composers, historical indexes from around the worlds and the history of piano building. A complete catalogue of books can be found on this link. Should you wish to use the library, please contact katrina@finchcocks.co.uk to arrange a private viewing. On rare occassions, books can be loaned for research purposes.
There's nothing remarkable about it. All one has to do is hit the right keys at the right time and the instrument plays itself
Johann Sebastian Bach