|
||||
|
South Durham Hunt 1st August 2002 Dear Bill, South Durham Hunt Ball Thank you so much for playing at the South Durham Hunts "Queens Jubilee Ball". It was a resounding success and you kept the extra-large dance floor full all night. Everyone enjoyed it so much we would like you to perform at our next Ball which will be taking place shortly. Yours sincerely Alan Wade. |
The Bill Watson Band has played for us at our annual Ball for several years. He is just right for us because his band is able to play a wide range of music fitting the mix of guests attending. Deborah Jeffery, Chairman, Northumberland & Durham Region of the Lady Taverners.
|
Here are some of the comments which have been made about my 'Swing Studies' series of publications and the companion soundtracks: |
"I found
them all good fun to play, the melodies are of a "catchy"
nature which I am sure would motivate the students."
"These studies are an
excellent introduction to jazz/big band playing involving appropriate
reading, phrasing and improvisation practise for students of all
ages"
"These studies would
be of great benefit to teachers and students with a Classical or Brass
Band background"
"The accompanying
C.D. not only demonstrates the style well, but allows the student to
play along with a good rhythm section"
" I have tried these
with my pupils and they work very well. It's made all the more
enjoyable for them playing along with a rhythm section."
"I would be very
interested to incorporate these books into my teaching"
"It is good to see
the 30 studies graded across such a wide band of abilities, as it is
always difficult to get worthwhile jazz and swing teaching material
for early grade levels"
"I especially like
the ideas for using the C.D. accompaniment in such a variety of
ways"
"This is just what I
have been looking for, we can have some great fun with these
books"
|
Here are some of the comments which I have received about my jazz workshops: |
From Steve Johnston,
Guttersloh Music Centre, Kings School, Germany:
' Hi Bill, ... Some comments from the band concerning your improvisation workshop/band weekend: 1. The most improvising I've ever done in such a short space of time. 2. Bill and Paul showed such patience and explained everything so fully. 3. What a fantastic weekend, are they coming again? 4. I never thought I'd be able to improvise - but it came easier after such skilled coaching. 5. It gave me so much to think about & opened my mind to new skills. 6. I can't wait to do this again. 7. Superb time, and just want to have another go soon. 8. Paul demonstrated to such a high level but always took care to make us feel good about our own playing. Bill directed the ensemble with such competence and left us feeling that we had achieved so much. ' |