WEA music courses - music to your ears!

If you’ve ever wondered about the origins of music, how it came to be, where it came from and how it's shaped different cultures, then why not immerse yourself in one of our music courses.  

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Depending on the music course you choose, you could be learning a new set of skills, uncovering a new genre that you never knew about before, or simply gaining a greater appreciation for the work and the artist who created it. The possibilities are endless with a WEA course.

You'll travel through different musical eras, discovering the different genres, composers and historic backgrounds that helped shape music as we know it today. By broadening your musical horizons you’ll learn how to interpret music, improving your critical thinking and analytical skills.  

Enrol on a music course near you  

Whether you prefer online learning from the comfort of your own home, or you want to attend an in-person class in your local community, we have a huge amount of flexibility to suit how you learn best. This means that you can pick the environment that’s right for you, giving you that piece of mind that you can learn in a place that you feel comfortable with. 

The support you’ll receive on our music courses 

Our online and in-person courses are taught by talented tutors who are experienced in all things music and will help support you to learn about all aspects of music history. They'll help you develop an understanding that goes beyond just what's on the surface. Whether you want to learn to sing, play an instrument or be immersed in the music of different cultures, we've got the course for you. 

Our learning experience is one of the things that sets us apart, with many of our learners going on to achieve incredible things. You’ll learn at a pace that’s comfortable for you too, with a friendly supportive tutor on hand to answer any questions you might have. 

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Music Appreciation: Shakespeare and Verdi

Verdi dominated Italian opera in the 19C with a series of highly dramatic works. He was an avid reader of literature and the great playwrights; most of his operas are derived from their works. His favourite writer was Shakespeare and he took great pride in his operatic settings of Macbeth, Othello and Falstaff. If you are a lover of Shakespeare, then you will learn how an operatic setting with its dramatic music and singing can provide an enhanced experience of these great dramas.

Course Information

Dates:
Sat 11/05/2024 -
Sat 11/05/2024
Times:
10:00am - 4:00pm
Duration:
1 sessions
Location:
The Bradbury Community Centre (Wokingham
Rose Street
Rose Street
Wokingham
RG40 1XS
Tutor:
Robin John
Course code:
Q00013789
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Free to £36.00

Music and Art: Sound and Vision

Programme of Study Music and Art: Sound and Vision Music Appreciation: How Sound Affects Our Moods, Wellbeing and Productivity (8th April – 20th May) Practical Art: Creative Artwork Inspired by Music and Sound (3rd June – 8th July) Start date: Monday 8th April to Monday 8th July 2024 Time: 2.00pm to 5.00 pm During this programme you will learn about the healing properties of sound, and how we can use sound and music to help our mental health and wellbeing. During the first course, we will cover meditation, mindfulness and the affects of sound upon us when we are out and about. You will have the opportunity to take part in group walks to locations such as Grove Park, the Grand Pier, beach etc. exploring how different locations and sounds make us feel. During the second half of the programme, you will have the opportunity to participate in practical art sessions to explore how artists use sound to inspire their artwork and will create your own art as a response to sound and music.

Course Information

Dates:
Mon 13/05/2024 -
Mon 08/07/2024
Location:
NST Hub (North Somerset Training Communi
31 Alexandra Parade
Weston-super-Mare
BS23 1QZ
Course code:
P00000059
How you'll learn:
In venue
Availability:
9 places remaining
Status:
Available

Music Making: Advanced Songwriting

Express your musical creativity and develop your songwriting skills in a supportive online group. This course will explore how to put together multi-track songs using recording software. Learners can choose to use their own recording software, or create an account for SoundTrap, a free online recording platform. During the course we will also analyse different song genres and learn to identify different instrument parts within an existing song. Please note: This is an advanced level course and requires existing skills in order to take part.

Course Information

Dates:
Thu 06/06/2024 -
Thu 25/07/2024
Times:
10:00am - 12:00pm
Duration:
8 sessions
Location:
Online
Tutor:
Lorna Poole
Course code:
Q00015242
How you'll learn:
Online
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee range
Free to £59.20

Music Making: African Drumming Workshop

A great way to spend a Thursday morning! Whether you are a seasoned drummer or just curious to have a go, this practical workshop in African drumming will inspire you with music and culture. Our experienced tutor will guide the group to play the Djembe drums to create simple beats and harmonies. Let go of stress and end the morning on a high note!

Course Information

Dates:
Thu 06/06/2024 -
Thu 06/06/2024
Times:
10:00am - 12:00pm
Duration:
1 sessions
Location:
Easington Lane Community Access Point
Easington Lane
Houghton - le- Spring
DH5 0LE
Tutor:
Mark Barfoot
Course code:
Q00015398
How you'll learn:
In venue
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
Available
Fee:
Free



The courses below have already started, but are still available to book.

Music Appreciation: The Music of Russia: From the Tsars to Stalin

The sparkling ballets of Tchaikovsky, the fantasy world of Rimsky Korsakov, the romance of Rachmaninov and the quirky humour of Prokofiev. Over eight weeks, you will meet these and many more glorious examples of Russian music from the early 19TH century to the recent past. As we chart how the national music developed from folk beginnings to internationally recognised trail-blazers, you will be able to develop your listening skills and learn about the challenges with which the composers had to struggle in making their voices heard. Our course is for everyone. No previous knowledge is required; just a willingness to listen, learn and enjoy.

Course Information

Dates:
Tue 16/04/2024 -
Tue 04/06/2024
Times:
2:00pm - 4:00pm
Duration:
8 sessions
Location:
The Christ Church Centre (Henley-on-Tham
46 Reading Road
Henley-on-Thames
RG9 1AG
Tutor:
Christopher Carter
Course code:
Q00013773
How you'll learn:
In venue
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
In progress
Fee range
Free to £80.00

Music Appreciation: The Music of Russia: From the Tsars to Stalin

The sparkling ballets of Tchaikovsky, the fantasy world of Rimsky Korsakov, the romance of Rachmaninov and the quirky humour of Prokofiev. Over eight weeks, you will meet these and many more glorious examples of Russian music from the early 19TH century to the recent past. As we chart how the national music developed from folk beginnings to internationally recognised trail-blazers, you will be able to develop your listening skills and learn about the challenges with which the composers had to struggle in making their voices heard. Our course is for everyone. No previous knowledge is required; just a willingness to listen, learn and enjoy.

Course Information

Dates:
Tue 16/04/2024 -
Tue 04/06/2024
Times:
2:00pm - 4:00pm
Duration:
8 sessions
Location:
The Christ Church Centre (Henley-on-Tham
46 Reading Road
Henley-on-Thames
RG9 1AG
Tutor:
Christopher Carter
Course code:
Q00013773
How you'll learn:
In venue
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
In progress
Fee range
Free to £80.00

Music Appreciation: The Music of Russia: From the Tsars to Stalin

The sparkling ballets of Tchaikovsky, the fantasy world of Rimsky Korsakov, the romance of Rachmaninov and the quirky humour of Prokofiev. Over eight weeks, you will meet these and many more glorious examples of Russian music from the early 19TH century to the recent past. As we chart how the national music developed from folk beginnings to internationally recognised trail-blazers, you will be able to develop your listening skills and learn about the challenges with which the composers had to struggle in making their voices heard. Our course is for everyone. No previous knowledge is required; just a willingness to listen, learn and enjoy.

Course Information

Dates:
Tue 16/04/2024 -
Tue 04/06/2024
Times:
2:00pm - 4:00pm
Duration:
8 sessions
Location:
The Christ Church Centre (Henley-on-Tham
46 Reading Road
Henley-on-Thames
RG9 1AG
Tutor:
Christopher Carter
Course code:
Q00013773
How you'll learn:
In venue
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
In progress
Fee range
Free to £80.00

Music Appreciation: The Music of Russia: From the Tsars to Stalin

The sparkling ballets of Tchaikovsky, the fantasy world of Rimsky Korsakov, the romance of Rachmaninov and the quirky humour of Prokofiev. Over eight weeks, you will meet these and many more glorious examples of Russian music from the early 19TH century to the recent past. As we chart how the national music developed from folk beginnings to internationally recognised trail-blazers, you will be able to develop your listening skills and learn about the challenges with which the composers had to struggle in making their voices heard. Our course is for everyone. No previous knowledge is required; just a willingness to listen, learn and enjoy.

Course Information

Dates:
Tue 16/04/2024 -
Tue 04/06/2024
Times:
2:00pm - 4:00pm
Duration:
8 sessions
Location:
The Christ Church Centre (Henley-on-Tham
46 Reading Road
Henley-on-Thames
RG9 1AG
Tutor:
Christopher Carter
Course code:
Q00013773
How you'll learn:
In venue
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
In progress
Fee range
Free to £80.00

Music Appreciation: The Music of Russia: From the Tsars to Stalin

The sparkling ballets of Tchaikovsky, the fantasy world of Rimsky Korsakov, the romance of Rachmaninov and the quirky humour of Prokofiev. Over eight weeks, you will meet these and many more glorious examples of Russian music from the early 19TH century to the recent past. As we chart how the national music developed from folk beginnings to internationally recognised trail-blazers, you will be able to develop your listening skills and learn about the challenges with which the composers had to struggle in making their voices heard. Our course is for everyone. No previous knowledge is required; just a willingness to listen, learn and enjoy.

Course Information

Dates:
Tue 16/04/2024 -
Tue 04/06/2024
Times:
2:00pm - 4:00pm
Duration:
8 sessions
Location:
The Christ Church Centre (Henley-on-Tham
46 Reading Road
Henley-on-Thames
RG9 1AG
Tutor:
Christopher Carter
Course code:
Q00013773
How you'll learn:
In venue
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
In progress
Fee range
Free to £80.00

Music Appreciation: The Music of Russia: From the Tsars to Stalin

The sparkling ballets of Tchaikovsky, the fantasy world of Rimsky Korsakov, the romance of Rachmaninov and the quirky humour of Prokofiev. Over eight weeks, you will meet these and many more glorious examples of Russian music from the early 19TH century to the recent past. As we chart how the national music developed from folk beginnings to internationally recognised trail-blazers, you will be able to develop your listening skills and learn about the challenges with which the composers had to struggle in making their voices heard. Our course is for everyone. No previous knowledge is required; just a willingness to listen, learn and enjoy.

Course Information

Dates:
Tue 16/04/2024 -
Tue 04/06/2024
Times:
2:00pm - 4:00pm
Duration:
8 sessions
Location:
The Christ Church Centre (Henley-on-Tham
46 Reading Road
Henley-on-Thames
RG9 1AG
Tutor:
Christopher Carter
Course code:
Q00013773
How you'll learn:
In venue
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
In progress
Fee range
Free to £80.00

Music Appreciation: The Music of Russia: From the Tsars to Stalin

The sparkling ballets of Tchaikovsky, the fantasy world of Rimsky Korsakov, the romance of Rachmaninov and the quirky humour of Prokofiev. Over eight weeks, you will meet these and many more glorious examples of Russian music from the early 19TH century to the recent past. As we chart how the national music developed from folk beginnings to internationally recognised trail-blazers, you will be able to develop your listening skills and learn about the challenges with which the composers had to struggle in making their voices heard. Our course is for everyone. No previous knowledge is required; just a willingness to listen, learn and enjoy.

Course Information

Dates:
Tue 16/04/2024 -
Tue 04/06/2024
Times:
2:00pm - 4:00pm
Duration:
8 sessions
Location:
The Christ Church Centre (Henley-on-Tham
46 Reading Road
Henley-on-Thames
RG9 1AG
Tutor:
Christopher Carter
Course code:
Q00013773
How you'll learn:
In venue
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
In progress
Fee range
Free to £80.00

Music Appreciation: The Music of Russia: From the Tsars to Stalin

The sparkling ballets of Tchaikovsky, the fantasy world of Rimsky Korsakov, the romance of Rachmaninov and the quirky humour of Prokofiev. Over eight weeks, you will meet these and many more glorious examples of Russian music from the early 19TH century to the recent past. As we chart how the national music developed from folk beginnings to internationally recognised trail-blazers, you will be able to develop your listening skills and learn about the challenges with which the composers had to struggle in making their voices heard. Our course is for everyone. No previous knowledge is required; just a willingness to listen, learn and enjoy.

Course Information

Dates:
Tue 16/04/2024 -
Tue 04/06/2024
Times:
2:00pm - 4:00pm
Duration:
8 sessions
Location:
The Christ Church Centre (Henley-on-Tham
46 Reading Road
Henley-on-Thames
RG9 1AG
Tutor:
Christopher Carter
Course code:
Q00013773
How you'll learn:
In venue
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
In progress
Fee range
Free to £80.00

Music Appreciation: Major and Minor Composers

In this course you will listen to, explore and enjoy a wide range of classical music from its earliest eras through to the present day by well-known and more marginal composers. In doing so you will engage with several individual works in different forms in each session thinking about the circumstances of and reasons behind their creation, and the particulars of the sonic landscape they offer through ideas such as genre, style, technique and arrangement, this will set the musical piece in context and also dive into the way the piece was constructed. To complement this we will also pay attention to the life and background of each different composer and how their approach to composition contributes to a distinctive oeuvre. You will also listen to examples of music from other genres such as jazz, film music, contemporary/neo/post-classical, ambient and electronic music.

Course Information

Dates:
Fri 19/04/2024 -
Fri 28/06/2024
Times:
9:45am - 11:45am
Duration:
10 sessions
Location:
Online
Tutor:
Simon Haworth
Course code:
Q00013312
How you'll learn:
Online
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
In progress
Fee range
Free to £74.00

Music Appreciation: Major and Minor Composers

In this course you will listen to, explore and enjoy a wide range of classical music from its earliest eras through to the present day by well-known and more marginal composers. In doing so you will engage with several individual works in different forms in each session thinking about the circumstances of and reasons behind their creation, and the particulars of the sonic landscape they offer through ideas such as genre, style, technique and arrangement, this will set the musical piece in context and also dive into the way the piece was constructed. To complement this we will also pay attention to the life and background of each different composer and how their approach to composition contributes to a distinctive oeuvre. You will also listen to examples of music from other genres such as jazz, film music, contemporary/neo/post-classical, ambient and electronic music.

Course Information

Dates:
Fri 19/04/2024 -
Fri 28/06/2024
Times:
9:45am - 11:45am
Duration:
10 sessions
Location:
Online
Tutor:
Simon Haworth
Course code:
Q00013312
How you'll learn:
Online
Availability:
10+ places remaining
Status:
In progress
Fee range
Free to £74.00