A celebration of the recorder family in all its shapes and sizes across the centuries, proving just how versatile an instrument the recorder is. Featuring recorders ranging in size from just six inches long to over seven feet tall, Fontanella will play everything from medieval dances and Tudor court music, through baroque masterpieces, up to music from the present day. Includes popular favourites by Bach, Vivaldi and Mozart plus Fontanella’s own arrangements of jazz classics and TV themes - and even a world premiere by an audience member!

This special show features Fontanella with guest storyteller Neil Ruckman. In a 45 minute re-telling of the famous Dick Whittington story, Fontanella provide a live Tudor soundtrack featuring music for all the characters including the benevolent Mr Fitzwarren, the Ship’s Captain, a rich Sultan and an angry Cook, as well as for Dick Whittington himself - and of course his black cat! Full of fun and beautiful music and all performed from memory enabling free movement from the musicians, this show has proved a hit all over the country.

These two interactive programmes involving participation from children are built around two old English folk tales, told by storyteller Neil Ruckman. The participants create their own soundtrack with the help of members of Fontanella, using special sound effects and simple tunes. Culminating in a grand performance in front of an audience, this is a great fun way to develop creative skills and promote literacy.

The Real Dick Whittington and The Pedlar’s Dream or Tattercoats can be arranged as an inclusive package for schools and arts organisations.

Woodhouse Recorder Week is a summer course for advanced recorder players aged 16-25, with day courses for aspiring players under 18, recorder teachers, and observers of any age. There are masterclasses, plentiful solo and ensemble performance platforms, lectures, seminars, professional concerts and great recreational opportunities. Set in the idyllic surroundings of Woodhouse Copse in Holmbury St Mary, Surrey, and led by Fontanella and internationally respected visiting tutors, Woodhouse Recorder Week is the perfect place to realise your recorder potential! Visit the website for more information.

The Recorder in Education

Fontanella enjoy entertaining and introducing children to the full scope and fun of recorder playing. The ensemble offers special presentations for Key Stages 1, 2 or 3 or to more advanced musical study at GCSE and A level. Fontanella members can also help develop a school's recorder playing through their Recorder Gurus interactive workshop sessions and teacher mentoring. Fontanella lead inspiring, practical INSET sessions and workshops for teachers, including sessions on technique, repertoire and ensemble sessions.

"Last night was a triumph! It makes all of the organisational agonies worthwhile. The children got such a huge amount out of the whole experience, not to mention the training for the teachers. It was lovely to see such a large audience who were clearly very proud of their children's achievements. I was able to speak to all of Fontanella after the concert - they really are the best!!!!!!"
Peter Walker, Primary Music Adviser, Brighton & Hove Music & Performing Arts