Welcome

Now in its fithteenth year Lot Music is a summer course for pianists which takes place in a picturesque area of south west France (the Lot Valley). It is aimed at those who would like to join a group with a common musical interest in a convivial relaxed atmosphere situated in the heart of France with all it has to offer. The ethos is to create an ambiance where pianists at approximately grade 8 and upwards can feel relaxed and inspired to play the piano. Particularly it gives a unique opportunity for amateur pianists to play to others and to have tuition from very high profile teachers.

The tutors offer inspiration & confidence to those less familiar with playing to others, as well as responding to the needs of the advanced players. Very advanced players can be offered a platform to give one of the evening recitals. The course is for a maximum of nine pianists in order to give each person individual attention. The course is perhaps unique in welcoming the pianists’ partners. It is aimed at adult pianists and would suit piano teachers, amateurs, or anyone with a passion for playing the piano. The choice of repertoire is free. In the teaching room there are two pianos allowing for concerto or two piano works.

The course runs for one week with all tuition in masterclasses.

Schedule

Day one: course begins in the evening with drinks followed by dinner at Pech Chagut, and the chance to meet the other participants and the tutor.

Daily programme: continental breakfast followed by morning masterclass (Yamaha C5 grand piano). Each participant can expect two hours of playing to the class (divided into three sessions) during the week. Non-playing partners have use of the pool and opportunities for exploring the region, etc. Alfreso lunch: prepared in house.

Click to Enlarge Image

Afternoons: free for practice (use of four pianos and a clavinova) allowing up to two hours practice time per person per day. Other activities include swimming, walking, exploring the area, canoeing, wine tasting, or just soaking up the atmosphere.

Click to Enlarge Image

Click to Enlarge Image

Click to Enlarge Image

Evenings: We rendevous for drinks on the terrace followed by an early evening recital by the tutor or advanced participants on most evenings. There is a participants’ concert on the last evening. Dinner is arranged at various restaurants in the region. The cuisine is regional French and the south west is especially famous for fois gras, confit of duck, pork, truffles, walnuts and, of course, Cahors wines. The menus are carefully chosen throughout the week to include fish. Vegetarians are also catered for.

Course ends: After breakfast on last day.

Click to Enlarge Image

Accommodation: there are six double bedrooms in the main house, other accommodation is in nearby chambre d'hotes. Most of the rooms are now with 'private facilities'. Single occupancy accommodation available. Superior accommodation at local hotels available at a supplement.

Course fees include full board, all restaurants, wine with dinner, masterclass tuition and concerts. TRAVEL IS NOT INCLUDED. Transport to restaurants depends on the goodwill of participants with cars to give others lifts. In the event of not enough cars a supplement for local transport will be necessary for those coming without their own transport.

Pech Chagut: The house is built in a traditional style using reclaimed materials but with the benefit of all modern comforts. There are lovely views over the Lot Valley towards the market town of Prayssac 2km away. Prayssac is a thriving small town with a large weekly market. Cahors, the capital of the Lot departement is a beautiful mediaeval town 20km away. The region is steeped in history making it a popular holiday destination.

Contact: Anne Brain at anne.n.brain@btinternet.com for more information.


Click to Enlarge Image		Click to Enlarge Image