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DILLINGTON - PROGRAMME OF COURSES AND EVENTS
BRISTOL
M
DILLINGTON
PROGRAMME OF COURSES AND EVENTS
JULY 2015 - JUNE 2016
RIBA Award
THE
DIL
CHA LINGTON
LLEN
GE!
Dillington’s spectacular building The Hyde won the 2010
Regional Architecture Award from the Royal Institute of British Architects.
The citation reads: The building displays a spatial and formal sophistication, precision and quiet
confidence which is incredibly rare. It sits with real sensitivity within a very complex site mediating
changes in level, capturing light and framing views.
copyright WILL PRYCE
It is a fabulous addition to the fine collection of historic buildings which exists on the site.
he Dillington programme
may include lecturers or
tutors who hold views that
may be considered controversial
or provocative.
T
In the spirit of free speech
we believe it is right that our
programme includes challenging
viewpoints, however the granting
of a platform does not imply that
Dillington endorses or opposes
any views expressed.
We hope that those attending
will enjoy the opportunity to
consider a range of opinions and challenge them if they wish.
WORKING
TOGETHER FOR
EQUALITIES
As part of Somerset County Council,
Dillington House promises not to
discriminate unfairly on grounds of
race, colour, ethnic or national origins,
nationality, religion, accent, language,
literacy, disability, age, income or
social background, sex, marital status,
caring responsibilities, sexual
orientation, political or trade union
activity.
copyright WILL PRYCE
Founded in 1949 as Somerset’s
residential centre for adult
education, Dillington House offers
a unique creative learning
environment for personal and
professional development.
Decades of experience and
commitment to excellence
in providing lifelong learning
opportunities place Dillington
at the forefront of such provision
in the South West.
Formerly the home of Prime Minister Lord North, Dillington dates back to
the sixteenth century - although there has been a house on the site since
before Domesday.
The present building was re-modelled in the early nineteenth century in
the so-called Jacobethan style. The Mews building was constructed in
1875 and January 2009 saw the opening of a spectacular contemporary
building - The Hyde - providing additional accommodation and teaching
space whilst adding to the historic narrative. Set in mature parkland,
Dillington offers the perfect setting for learning, resting and getting away
from the pressures of home life and the office. There are beautiful formal
gardens as well as informal areas, and for those who really want to get
away from everyone, there is the arboretum, known as ‘The Wilderness’!
Over recent years Dillington has been substantially refurbished to provide
very high quality comfortable accommodation. There are many facilities for
people with disabilities including 16 bedrooms which are fully accessible.
The food is excellent and the premises are fully licensed. There is a wellstocked library and many of the rooms display an interesting juxtaposition
of traditional and contemporary works of art.
copyright HELEN HOOKER
Dillington offers a very
special combination of firstclass facilities, a peaceful
and beautiful setting, and
an excellent programme of
courses and events. There
is always a warm welcome
and the friendly staff are
always willing to help. For
these and many more
reasons Dillington House
enjoys a reputation as a
learning environment par
excellence which is second
to none.
1
“Dillington gives a whole new dimension to the concept
of adult education. August sees a six-day jazz week; in
September I see there is - and I select at random from any
number of others - Art in Ancient Egypt, Rush BasketMaking, Caravaggio and his Disciples and the
Foundations of English Society. Hardly a day goes by
without superb music, and we are promised lectures by
such luminaries as Bettany Hughes and Brian Sewell,
Michael Wood and Hugo Vickers. This fantastic cultural
phenomenon has left me gasping.”
PROFESSOR
DIARMAID
MACCULLOCH
“I came to Somerset to talk about Socrates and his
search for the good life. And in many ways I found it
incarnated in Dillington House. Here there is a love of
beauty and truth. To find a sympathetic venue with an
exquisitely rich history, open to all and encouraging
debate, creativity and a passion for life is exactly the
kind of thing that would have made Socrates smile.
I can't wait to come back.”
JOHN JULIUS
NORWICH
“For such a peaceful place, with gracious buildings
and landscape, Dillington is deceptive. You think
you've come to a sleepy rural idyll, with gentle dim
sheep grazing the neat lawns. But inside, it's all talk
and ideas, enquiring minds and lively discussion.
History, art, literature, music - whatever quickens the
spirit and sharpens the mind: right here in Somerset.”
BETTANY
HUGHES
Professor
Jim AL-Khalili
2
“What a beautiful and tranquil part of the world.
Coming to Dillington House for the first time, I was
struck by the many wonderful contrasts: all the
conveniences of modern life, from centrally heated
accommodation to free wifi and other high tech
facilities, integrated tastefully within the grounds of
a traditional English stately home, or the welcoming
roaring fire on arrival, suggesting a sleepy retreat,
that in fact hides an atmosphere of intellectual
vibrancy and curiosity.”
KATE
ADIE OBE
Sir
Jeremy Dixon
“Dillington provides an unusual and ambitious
range of courses. The project was run and
masterminded by Wayne Bennett who has ensured
that the whole place is in excellent shape, and
indeed, he has been the client for a distinguished
modern extension of unusual quality. Wayne is to
be complimented on what he has achieved at
Dillington – it is a feather in the cap of Somerset’s
educational facilities.”
“Oxford and Cambridge have long held to the maxim that
education is too important and enjoyable not to be done
with style, and it was a pleasure to find that Dillington
House follows the same principle. The buildings and the
grounds are a delight to savour and all is done with
maximum care and attention to detail. You can enjoy the
adventure of intellectual or artistic exploration at any
stage through the busyness of life. Somerset County
Council should be very proud of what its team have
achieved here - Dillington holds up a standard for the
rest of the country.”
From all of the team at Dillington House…
Welcome to the Autumn 2015 Courses and Events programme at Dillington House.
This is, once again, an exciting look at what Dillington has to offer. As always, we’ve
included a wide range of courses, concerts and talks and hope whatever your interest,
you can find something to suit you.
Dillington has always strived to provide a
unique offering that educates, informs and
entertains, and this year is no exception
with a programme that has lots of familiar
favourites as well as new tutors and
courses.
Whilst perusing through, you will come
across the twenty-first Classical Guitar
Festival which Dillington is very proud to
be hosting. We hope to see you there. This
year’s Summer School is also proving very
popular so if you would like to attend any
of the courses we have available, please
book your place now!
A new venture for this programme is, as
you will see at the back, the addition of an
index. We hope this will prove useful when
it comes to finding exactly what you are
looking for and will help you to not miss
out on anything you may have mistakenly
overlooked.
If this programme doesn’t answer any questions you may have or if you would like to find
out more about what Dillington has to offer, please take a look at our website or phone
our Bookings Office where the team will be happy to help. You can also stay up to date
by signing up to our e-newsletter; just provide us with your email address and we’ll do
the rest. This is our way of updating you throughout the year and will contain any
additional courses that we have slotted in to meet demand and news of daily life at
Dillington.
We would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our regular customers for your
continued support and all of our very kind and generous sponsors. Whether you are new to
Dillington or a familiar face, we can’t wait to welcome you and hope to see you soon.
3
simply the best... and that’s official
Dillington holds the prestigious Five Star rating by the VisitBritain National Quality
Assurance Standard Campus Scheme. This standard has been designed for
universities and colleges offering accommodation to the general public.
DILLINGTON HOUSE –
3
3
3
3
3
3
THE VENUE OF FIRST CHOICE
Superb Historic House with many fine works of art both traditional and contemporary
Beautiful gardens and arboretum plus a fine collection of sculpture
High standard of accommodation with free wireless internet access in all bedrooms
Excellent food, including a generous full English buffet breakfast for residents
Brilliant staff who are always willing to assist
Fascinating courses led by enthusiastic tutors as well as free time to relax in an inspiring and safe environment
THE DILLINGTON
EXPERIENCE
Whether you are at Dillington as a resident or a non-resident, your special
experience will start from the moment you arrive and receive a warm and
friendly welcome at reception. During your course you will enjoy excellent food
throughout. Breakfast for residents is simply amazing with a huge choice to
suit every taste. Lunch consists of three courses from a comprehensive
selection of hot and cold dishes from the buffet.
Sunday lunch is a superb two-course carvery. In the evenings you will be
served a delicious three-course dinner followed by freshly made coffee.
Residents are accommodated in high standard en-suite bedrooms, each
of which has a television, clock radio, telephone and free wireless internet
access, as well as tea-making facilities, towels and complimentary toiletries.
All our tutors are enthusiastic and experts in their field. As well as a full course
programme there will also be time to relax and enjoy the beautiful and inspiring
surroundings or take time to chat with like-minded people.
4
Fees may vary from course to course to reflect
differences in the costs incurred for tutors, field
trips etc.
VAT is included where applicable. VAT is not
charged on course fees however Dillington House
reserves the right to vary other charges if the VAT
rate changes.
Bookings & Enquiries 01460 258613
[email protected]
www.dillington.com
EXTRAS
Early Bird Discount
STAY CONNECTED
Certain courses attract an early bird discount. Book by the end
of September and get 10% off the course fee. Look for the
symbols throughout this programme.
Website, Blog & Social Media
The website is easy to navigate and there you will find all sorts of
information about the courses and tutors together with links to their
own websites. You can search by subject, tutor name or keywords.
Whilst on the website you can sign up to receive our E-Newsletter
which keeps you up to date with what’s happening and what’s new at
Dillington. The website also takes you to the Dillington Blog.
facebook.com/dillington
Weekend Plus
You can extend your weekends by staying an extra night for a
special tariff of £65. This covers a light supper and
accommodation on Sunday night, and a full English breakfast
on Monday morning.
dillington.com
@dillingtonhouse
Additional Nights
Subject to availability it may be possible to stay overnight in
advance of a day course for which we can offer a special rate for
dinner, bed and breakfast. Ask for full details on booking.
If you want to stay and catch up with some private work or study,
rather than attend a course, then we have a special rate for you.
Similarly, if you wish to bring somebody with you and whilst you
attend your course they relax and do their own thing then we
have special rates for that too. Prices start from £243* for
weekends on a full board basis (* charges current at time of
going to print). Longer periods can be calculated on a pro-rata
basis. Place subject to availability.
Gift
Private Study & Reading Retreats
[email protected]
Vouchers
Gift vouchers are an ideal present for Dillington regulars
or a treat for someone new to Dillington. Vouchers are
available in various amounts and can be purchased from
the Bookings Office 01460 258613. Treat someone today
and give them the gift of the Dillington Experience.
5
Friends, Patrons & sponsors
FRIENDS
SPONSORS
£25 per annum single subscription
£35 per annum joint subscription
As you will see a number of our concerts in the programme have been sponsored
by Friends and Patrons of Dillington. We even have a group of Friends joining
together to sponsor a future concert. If you are interested in sponsoring a concert
in return for some wonderful Dillington hospitality please call the Bookings Office.
•
•
•
•
•
•
Receive the programme in advance of everyone else
Priority booking
Exclusive promotions
Reserved seating for concerts
Reserved seating for talks
Receive twice yearly newsletter with all the
behind the scenes stories and plans.
• Entry into the annual prize draw
PATRONS
£300 per annum
6
All of the above plus…
10% discount on most courses
10% discount on concert tickets
10% discount on talk tickets
Terms and Conditions
• Membership runs for 12 months from the month of joining.
• Joint subscriptions apply to two people residing at the same address.
• Benefits to Patrons apply to a maximum of two people residing at the same
address.
• Priority booking applies to printed programme only.
• Patron discounts apply to most courses excepting those marked
where
special payments to third parties are involved.
• Patrons discount does not apply to pre-concert/pre-talk meals
• Patrons discount applies to new bookings only.
Bookings & Enquiries 01460 258613
[email protected]
www.dillington.com
Rock & Water: Industrial Archaeology in Devon & Somerset
Blithe Spirit: The Life & Times of Noël Coward
Tea Sunday 5 – Lunch Wednesday 8 July
Fees (£): s 618 t 540 l 586 n 508 H 508 u 366
This years course explores parts of Devon and Somerset. Together with
lectures, two field visits include the Haytor granite quarries and unique
tramway on Dartmoor and lead mines in the Teign valley. The second
visit follows the Bridgwater & Taunton Canal, with sites in both towns and
between the Quantocks and coast, with water supply, a lost harbour and
more. No previous knowledge needed and all-comers welcome but
please note rough walking is involved on the first visit.
Tutor: Dr Peter Stanier
Monday 6 July
Fee: £50
Noël Coward made an enormous contribution to the arts from the 1920s
onwards with a prolific output of plays, musical comedies, songs,
screenplays and much else besides. During the day we shall hear
examples of his output, including extracts from his most famous works.
We shall also find out about the man who created them and examine the
times in which they were produced, in order to gain a fuller picture of the
man whom many in the entertainment world called ‘The Master’. This
day course is a condensed version of the popular weekend course which
took place in March. All-comers welcome. Tutor: Dr Paul McDonald
Interior Design
Ritual & Festival: Life in an Ancient Egyptian Temple
Watercolour & Beyond
Tea Sunday 5 – Lunch Wednesday 8 July
Fees (£): s 543 t 465 l 511 n 433 H 433 u 291
A chance to experiment with different techniques to develop your
watercolour paintings. Our theme will be nature based - trees, flowers
and insects. Initially working loosely with wet into wet washes to create
atmosphere we will experiment with the addition of collage (hand made
papers), simple printing techniques (leaves) and a range of water soluble
media (graphitints, neocolour crayons, art bars and inktense pencils)
that Shari will bring for you to try. This course is most suited to those
with some previous experience of watercolour who are keen to develop
their individual style and experiment with different techniques.
Tutor: Shari Hills
Wednesday 8 July
Fee: £50
What went on in an Ancient Egyptian temple? In this day course we will
explore the world of the Ancient Egyptian temple, a world of rituals in
these ‘houses of the gods’, and festivals extending out into the local
communities. We will find a temple hierarchy of men and women
serving a variety of roles, both cultic and secular. We will explore the role
of priests in ancient Egyptian society - the worship of the gods, but also a
range of other activities that took place in the temples, from astronomy to
butchery. Exploration of the role of high priest will provide us with
information about the status of priesthood and occasions when high
priests might even become local rulers. All-comers welcome.
Tutor: Lucia Gahlin
JULY
Wednesday 8 July
Fee: £54
What's new in Interior Design? What's right for you and your home?
Have you fallen into the fashion trap? Lesley will provide you with real
insight into creating an inspiring home reflecting your own individual
taste and personality. As well as discussing trends in colour, style and
products for each area of the home, there will be a fool-proof colour
scheming session. All-comers welcome on this fun day, learning how to
create relaxed harmonious spaces in which to live. Tutor: Lesley Watson
Exceptional
“Exceptional in all respects”
7
s Sup ens sing occ t Sup ens dbl occ l Dbl ens sing occ n Dbl ens H Sing ens u Non res : Weekend Plus
The Alexander Technique
Tunisian Crochet for Beginners
Wednesday 8 July
Fee: £50
The course is designed to introduce the ideas of the Alexander
Technique in a simple, yet dynamic way, using anatomy, illustration and
personal experience. The core ideas of naturally lengthening the spinal
column in order to reach a more balanced uprightness, allowing muscle
that is usually active to find repose, will be presented in both theory and
practice. Through experimentation, observation and anatomical
understanding, each student can gain a clearer picture of what skilful
use of our muscle system, in repose and in movement, is like and how
this wonderful experience can be achieved. All-comers welcome.
Tutor: Jerry Nightingale
Monday 13 July
Fee: £53 (includes materials)
Not heard of it before? Then let your curiosity be piqued! Often
described as a knitting, crochet fusion, this quick to work technique
creates a wide range from a dense fabric with a weave-like texture to
light airy lace. You will learn to work the basics as well as some fancy
stitches and get to grips with patterns and abbreviations. All-comers
welcome. Tutor: Tamsyn Simmonds
Wagner’s Ring In Time & Place
JULY
Tea Sunday 12 – Breakfast Friday 17 July
Fees (£): s 857 t 727 l 805 n 675 H 675 u 437
Wagner's four-opera Ring cycle is a great musical achievement in the
innovative way the composer used themes, harmonies, orchestration
and other musical aspects; but it is also rooted in the evolving German
politics of its age and the development of philosophical ideas. The work
took Wagner nearly forty years to complete, and some parts went
through many versions. The reading which fed into the Ring included
German and Norse myths as well as the works of Feuerbach, Hegel
and Schopenhauer amongst others. During the course of the Ring's
composition Germany moved towards being a united country under the
Prussian Kaiser. The politics of power, responsibility, rights and duties all
feature in the Ring story, as do love and redemption. This course will
explore Wagner's Ring not only as a musical and aesthetic work but as
an articulator of some of the ideas current before and during the years
Wagner worked on the operas in Switzerland and Germany. There will
be a free session after lunch each day to relax and enjoy the beautiful
grounds of Dillington. All-comers welcome. Tutor: Roderick Swanston
Alignment Therapy
Thank
you
“Thank you for a
unique weekend”
8
Tuesday 14 July
Fee: £50
Do you have back (or other) pain and want to relieve it? The Evans
Technique of Alignment Therapy, officially recognised in 2011 by the
Independent Professional Therapists International (IPTI), is an extremely
gentle and painless way of relieving back and other joint pain. During
the day we will look at ways of using simple body movements to relieve
aches and pains. This self-help course is designed for those who want
to relieve their own aches or want to help others with theirs. The
technique has been designed by its originator Ann Evans who is
running the course. All-comers welcome. Tutor: Ann Evans
Bookings & Enquiries 01460 258613
[email protected]
www.dillington.com
20th Century Russia: Politics, Economics & Social Life
Tuesday 14 July
Fee: £50
Much of Twentieth Century Russia is enigmatic – how much do we think
we know about it and what is the reality? Travel through the hundred
years of wars and periods of peace; tough policies and world affairs;
treason and sense of community; mass deaths, famine and revival; the
end of Tsarism, the first presidential elections and into the new era of
Putin's Russia emerging as a global superpower. All-comers welcome.
Tutor: Elena Maughan
Another Mystery Tour
The Dillington Book Club
Tuesday 14 July
Fee: £78
Another minibus tour of discovery by David Hunt searching out
interesting and out-of-the-way places, attractive views and different
landscapes not visited on David’s previous mystery tours. There will
be opportunities for photography and to explore on foot. Our tour
leaves Dillington at 9am and returns at 6pm. Packed lunches and
refreshments will be provided. All-comers are welcome but please
note there may be some walking on rough ground.
Tutor: David Hunt
JULY
The Dillington Book Club offers an opportunity for all those lovers of
literature to meet to discuss a variety of books. The group meets on the
first Tuesday of every month and is led by Elizabeth Rapp, who brings
with her a wealth of literary knowledge and experience. Discussion is
always lively and passionate as members are encouraged to freely view
and express their opinions. Whilst the book club is intended for serious
debate there is also a lot of fun to be had and discussions often continue
all the way through lunch!
Sessions start with coffee at 10.30am and finish with a three-course
lunch at 1.00pm.
Each session costs £24 and prior booking is essential as places are
limited.
The books that will be discussed during the book club
sessions in 2015 are:
- Suite Franҫaise by Irene Némirovsky
- Still Alice by Lisa Genova
- The Quality of Mercy by Barry Unsworth
- H is for Hawk by Helen MacDonald
Please sign up to receive full details of the dates and books to be
discussed by sending an email to [email protected]
Ukulele Workshop for Beginners
Wednesday 15 July
Fee: £50
Always wanted to play an instrument but thought you never could? This
one day workshop is ideal for anyone who has little or no experience of
playing a musical instrument. You will be introduced to the ukulele from
scratch and will learn to hold, tune and strum it and learn five simple
chords. In a few short hours you will be strumming along to familiar
songs and enjoying the pleasures of communal music in a friendly and
supportive group. All-comers welcome. Ukuleles are available to loan
for the day but please request one on booking. Please also indicate if
you are a left-handed player. Tutor: Sally Vaughan
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s Sup ens sing occ t Sup ens dbl occ l Dbl ens sing occ n Dbl ens H Sing ens u Non res : Weekend Plus
Dating Old Photographs
Wednesday 15 July
Fee: £50
Many of us have collections of photos and say ‘I have no idea who that
person is’. If you’re one of those people then this is the day for you. We
will look at photography from the 1850s to the 1950s. This course will
include practical sessions on how to date photos for Family History using
various sources, handling, conserving and storing photos and using
them in your Family History. Bring along your photos and see what you
can discover. All-comers welcome. Tutor: Jane Ferentzi-Sheppard
Heroes and Dissenters:
How We Might Have Avoided the First World War
Wednesday 15 July
Fee: £50
Could the First World War have been avoided? Was the British Empire
strictly necessary? This course is an exploration of the anti-militarist and
anti-imperialist tradition in British politics from the seventeenth century
to the outbreak of the First World War. All-comers welcome.
Tutor: Richard Henderson
Botanical Illustration
JULY
Tea Sunday 19 – Lunch Thursday 23 July
Fees (£): s 724 t 620 l 682 n 578 H 578 u 388
Botanical Illustration is precise detailed work, a combination of art and
science. This studio based watercolour course is for all ability levels; no
experience of art or botany is required, just commitment. We aim to
enjoy working in an atmosphere of relaxed industry. Students will work
at their own pace on the subject of their choice. The course will cover
the use of basic materials and methods for beginners and will offer
professional advice to advanced students. The emphasis will be on
individual development. All-comers welcome. Tutor: Susan Hillier
By The Sword, The Pen & The Brush:
The Life & Times of Winston Churchill
Dinner Monday 20 – Breakfast Thursday 23 July
Fees (£): s 495 t 417 l 464 n 386 H 386 u 243
2015 marks the fiftieth anniversary of Churchill’s death. He remains a
colossus of modern history. The aim of the course is to follow and
assess his long career from his time as soldier and war correspondent in
the late nineteenth century to his retirement as Prime Minister in 1955.
There will be particular emphasis on his role as war leader, together with
reference to his writing, his speeches and his keen interest in painting.
All-comers welcome. Tutor: Mark Cottle
Researching Your Family History: London Ancestors
Tuesday 21 July
Fee: £50
During the day, through tutor demonstrations, you will find out how to go
about researching ancestors who lived in London, including Middlesex,
Surrey, Kent and Essex, and be given advice on a variety of different
websites. The tutor will bring along her collection of books relating to
London for you to use for personal research for which there will be time
set aside. All-comers welcome. Tutor: Jane Ferentzi-Sheppard
The People of Roman Britain
Tuesday 21 July
Fee: £50
The Roman Empire was an extremely cosmopolitan place – every
province had people from almost every other province among their
populations; not only soldiers, but priests, doctors, merchants and slaves
to name just a few. This day course will look at the people of Roman
Britain and their origins, also what brought them to Rome’s northernmost
province, and how they interacted with the Britons. All-comers welcome.
Tutor: Nick Griffiths
Sewing Techniques: Zips, Piping, Seam Finishes & Hems
Tuesday 21 July
Fee: £50
This course is aimed at students who may be relatively new to sewing
and those who have difficulties in producing a professional finish to their
garments and sewing projects. The course will cover applying
conventional zips, concealed zips, cutting bias strips for use as binding
and piping, various methods of finishing seams and hems, including
machined and handsewn techniques. All-comers welcome but please
note you will need basic sewing knowledge, including the ability to use
your own sewing machine, which you will need to bring with you.
Tutor: Jenny Harrison
10
Bookings & Enquiries 01460 258613
ur
on To
[email protected]
She Stoops To
Conquer
A farcical comedy
by
Oliver Goldsmith
21st July
Picnic from 6pm
Show starts
7.30pm
www.dillington.com
Picasso’s Art
Wednesday 22 July
Fee: £50
Picasso used diverse styles, methods and subject matter in his art.
Forever experimenting and innovating throughout his life; we will be
looking at his Blue, Rose, African, Cubism, Classicism and Surrealism
periods, as well as his reinterpretation of works of artists such as
Velazquez, Goya, Delacroix and Manet. Picasso was a prolific artist
whose response to the world’s beauty and conflicts has given us much to
think about and admire. All-comers welcome. Tutor: Jennifer Spiers
Learn to Spin on the Drop Spindle
Wednesday 22 July
Fee: £55 (includes materials)
The drop spindle has been used for thousands of years to twist fibres
into yarn. In this workshop you will learn the techniques of hand
spinning in a simple and easy form and discover how to prepare fibres,
make a single ply and two ply yarn, plying techniques, and create several
skeins of yarn to take home. All-comers welcome.
Tutor: Tamsyn Simmonds
She Stoops to Conquer
A farcical comedy by Oliver Goldsmith
21st July
Picnic from 6pm
Show starts 7.30pm
Another year, another Kate
Though Miss Hardcastle isn’t a shrew! She Stoops To Conquer is
a glorious comic romp through eighteenth century manners, with
costumes to match. Bring a chair, a picnic, a bottle of wine and
your friends, sit back and enjoy the show! Full details and bookings
through Taunton Thespians’ website – www.tauntonthespians.org.uk
or from Taunton TIC – 01823 366344.
Wednesday 22 July
Fee: £50
In this day course we will focus on four books, which, while differing
greatly in plot and content, have one thing in common. This is a
perception of the adult world from a child’s point of view - often
bewildering and incomprehensible, perplexing and mysterious.
We will look at style, themes and symbolism as well as attempting some
psychological interpretations through our discussions of each book.
We will also explore the strategies employed by the young characters to
deal with the series of events and challenges they find themselves
facing. The four books are: Alice in Wonderland (Lewis Carroll 1865);
The Go-Between (L.P.Hartley 1953); Lord of the Flies (William Golding
1953) and The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night Time (Mark
Haddon 2004). All comers are welcome; no specialist knowledge needed
but an interest in the subject and some familiarity with the
four books to be examined. Tutor: Liz Merry
JULY
Through the Eyes of Childhood
“A lovely
relaxing day”
A lovely
relaxing day
A lovely
11
s Sup ens sing occ t Sup ens dbl occ l Dbl ens sing occ n Dbl ens H Sing ens u Non res : Weekend Plus
Pencil to Paint
Drawing & Painting People
Wednesday 22 July
Fee: £50
We know that a painting is more than just a coloured-in drawing, but
how do we do it? What exactly is the difference? This one day workshop
explores the gulf between drawing and painting and then seeks to
provide a bridge between the two disciplines. Beginning with a simple
pencil study, we will develop our work in black and white, gaining
confidence in our abilities, before embarking on an authoritative,
full-colour interpretation. All-comers welcome. Tutor: David Chandler
Tea Sunday 26 – Breakfast Wednesday 29 July
Fees (£): s 510 t 432 l 478 n 400 H 400 u 258
This three day structured course of figures and/or portraits is aimed at
anyone who wishes to build their confidence to include figures in their
work by using professional models, clothed and posed in everyday,
familiar settings. We will start with instruction and demonstrations in
observation and simple, basic drawing and progress to considering
colour and shading. Bring whatever materials you prefer and enjoy this
friendly, informative course in the beautiful surroundings of Dillington.
All-comers welcome. Tutor: Stella Murray Whatley
How The Victorians Built Our World: An Introduction
to British Architecture in the Victorian Period
JULY
Tea Sunday 26 – Breakfast Wednesday 29 July
Fees (£): s 495 t 417 l 464 n 386 H 386 u 243
During Queen Victoria's long reign, Britain was transformed. Industry
expanded, cities grew vastly, and the country reaped the benefits of a
large empire. Builders and architects responded with relish as Britain's
greatest building boom took hold. On this course we will explore the
variety of Victorian architecture and discover the often dazzling ways in
which Victorian architects revived ancient styles of architecture to design
all kinds of structures, from churches and town halls to schools and
factories. We will look at the new kinds of buildings that the Victorians
developed, including railway stations, large hospitals, and exhibition
halls, and the striking use they made of the latest technologies in their
construction. We will discover how Victorian builders laid the
foundations for our own times in all kinds of areas including housing, city
planning, school building, industrial architecture, and the creation of
what is probably Britain's most famous and symbolic building, the
Houses of Parliament. All-comers welcome. Tutor: Philip Wilkinson
‘By George’ – The Whirlwind Musical Life
of George Gershwin
Tea Sunday 26 – Breakfast Wednesday 29 July
Fees (£): s 495 t 417 l 464 n 386 H 386 u 243
Raised on the overcrowded Lower East Side of New York, young George
Gershwin had a life on the streets as roller-skating champion and often
skipped school for secret piano lessons from an aunt. Working his way
into ‘Tin Pan Alley’ as a song plugger, he had his own first hit at the age
of 21 with the song ‘Swanee’. He went on to write hundreds of songs for
stage and film as well as orchestral pieces and his magnum opus Porgy
& Bess, first staged in 1935, less than two years before Gershwin’s
death. All-comers welcome. Tutor: Chris Howes
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Social Networking for the Terrified –
Promoting Your Club or Organisation Online
Monday 27 July
Fee: £50
Do you run a local club or organisation, but would like to raise more
awareness or interest in your group? Perhaps you would like to increase
the number of people who know about your latest drama production, or
attend your gardening club. Or maybe you run a charity and would like
to find more supporters to raise funds. In this course we will consider
several social media applications, including Facebook, Twitter and
Pinterest. There will be an opportunity to create accounts and discuss
privacy and security issues, but further than this we will discuss how to
run these accounts to gain the maximum followers, and the most interest
in your group. You will end the day with the tools to comfortably and
effectively raise awareness of, and interest in, your group, using online
social media. All-comers welcome but some previous computer
experience is advisable. Tutor: Siobhan Allen
[email protected]
www.dillington.com
First Steps into Italian Language
Creative Writing Workshop: As Busy as a Bee
Monday 27 July
Fee: £50
If you’re going on holiday to Italy or just have a love of language this day,
aimed at beginners, will totally immerse you in the beautiful language
of Italian. During the day we will start to build the basic foundations of
the language through enjoyable easy activities which concentrate on
pronunciation, greetings and expressions. Come along for this fun
day and start learning a new language. All-comers welcome.
Tutor: Donatella Zuffa
Tuesday 28 July
Fee: £50
Bees are essential to our survival as the pollinators for plants we need
for food. Their numbers have been declining at an alarming rate since
the second world war and we are just beginning to realise we need to
create an environment in which bees may thrive. Their colonies are
wonderfully organised and the beehive is a structure of great beauty and
efficiency. We shall study some of the fascinating legends and myths
about them and read some poems in their praise, including Virgil’s
Exlogues, as stimulus for our writing. All-comers welcome, whether you
are experienced or just beginning to discover the delights of creating
poetry and prose! Tutor: Elizabeth Rapp
A Walk Through Coleridge Country
Monday 27 July
Fee: £75
This walk through Coleridge country will begin with a visit to Coleridge
Cottage in Nether Stowey, which is followed by a walk on the Quantock
Hills along a section of the Coleridge Way to Holford, taking in the ruins
of Stowey Castle, Walford’s gibbet and Alfoxton, where the poet William
Wordsworth once lived. The walk will provide insights into the wildlife of
the Quantock Hills, with possible sightings of red deer. Please note the
walk will involve rough ground and stiles. Entrance to Coleridge Cottage
is free to National Trust members but non-members will need to pay the
entrance fee (£5.60 at time of press). Tutor: Roy Osborne
Meditation & Mindfulness
Tuesday 28 July
Fee: £50
A one-day course designed for beginners, and for anyone wanting to
refresh their own practice. We will look at how traditional meditation is
now ‘mainstream’, formulated as Mindfulness by Jon Kabat Zinn et.al.,
and used therapeutically in many social contexts. We will have short
periods of silent practice with different meditation supports, starting with
the breath. A perfect introduction for those dealing with change or
stress, or the simply curious. Chairs to sit on provided (no special
postures required!), but wear loose clothing and warm socks. If you wish
to sit on the floor please bring cushion and small blanket. All-comers
welcome. Tutor: Hilary Armstrong
Terrific
The Twenty First Dillington Classical Guitar Summer School
Directed by Peter Rueffer
Tea Sunday 2 – Breakfast Saturday 8 August
Fees (£): s 874 t 817 l 838 n 761 H 761 u 498
This popular event, which celebrates its 21st anniversary, offers classical
guitarists a unique opportunity to participate in a varied programme of
music making, with plenty of time to develop playing and music reading
skills. In an atmosphere of mutual support, your confidence will grow
whilst performing in ensembles both large and small. Highlights for
2015 will include a specially written work for guitar orchestra and classes
by visiting artists Derek Gripper and Duo Agostino. Each evening you
will join the audience of the Classical Guitar Festival to relax and enjoy
the concerts given by a fantastic line up of international artists. Come
and be part of a week of fun, friendship and performance and you’ll get
hooked! The Summer school is suitable for players of all levels of ability
except beginners.
JULY
Bookings & Enquiries 01460 258613
“Terrific tutor, enthusiastic,
knowledgeable & effective”
13
THE TWENTY FIRST DILLINGTON
CLASSICAL GUITAR FESTIVAL
Sunday 2 August
Baroque to Brazil
Craig Ogden, Graham Roberts (guitars) & Bill Coleman (double bass)
Includes works by Bach, Vivaldi & Antonio Carlos Jobim.
This concert is sponsored by a Patron of Dillington
Monday 3 August
Hands Across The World
This year we will be celebrating twenty
one years of the Dillington Classical
Guitar Festival. Performed by some
of today’s top international artists this
year’s theme is world music giving a
global flavour to the Festival.
Daniela Rossi (Solo Guitar)
The young Argentinian virtuoso makes her Dillington debut
with a programme which includes works by Piazzolla & Rodrigo.
This concert is sponsored by a Patron of Dillington
Tuesday 4 August
Crossing Continents with Duo Agostino
Includes works by Piazzolla, Granados and Australian
composers Phillip Houghton & Richard Charlton.
This concert is sponsored by a Friend of Dillington
Wednesday 5 August
Out of Africa with Derek Gripper
Tickets (per concert)
£10 (under 18s £5) Sun-Wed
£12 (under 18s £6) Katona Twins
with special guest Gerard Cousins
Features works from Derek Gripper’s acclaimed recording
The Strings of Mali.
Thursday 6 August
Festival Season Ticket £40
Pre-concert suppers available at £23
All concerts start at 8.00pm
Virtuoso music for two guitars
The Katona Twins
The amazing brothers, Peter & Zoltán Katona return for
their sixth Dillington appearance to thrill us once again with
their virtuosity
This concert is sponsored by two Friends of Dillington
www.dillington.com
JUNE
JULY
AUG
SEPT
OCT
NOV
SUMMER SCHOOL
AT DILLINGTON
MAY
APR
MAR
FEB
JAN
[email protected]
DEC
Bookings & Enquiries 01460 258613
15
15
Join Wayne Bennett, Chris Pollard and friends for our annual Summer
School and enjoy learning with like-minded people whilst having fun,
relaxing and rejuvenating. This year there are two weeks to choose from
each offering a veritable pick and mix of courses, so there is something
for everyone. As well as courses during the day each evening you will
enjoy a programme of after dinner entertainment. You can choose to
spend the week on one of the longer courses, out and about with Mike
Hope, or put together a programme of shorter courses or self-contained
days to create your own special holiday with a difference.
WAYNE
CHRIS
Tea Sunday 9 – Breakfast Saturday 15 August
SUMMER SCHOOL WEEK ONE OPTIONS
CLARE DUVERGIER
MON
TUES
WED
MIKE HOPE
TIM PORTER
Be a More
Confident
Painter
Private Houses
& Gardens of
Devon
(5 day course)
(4 days out & about
and a day at
Dillington)
Magna Carta
England
(4 day course)
WAYNE BENNETT
An Architectural
History of
Theatres
CHRIS POLLARD
Sicily: Land of
Gods & Poets
ADAM D’SOUZA
Ancient Malta
(2 day course)
(2 day course)
Islamic Malta
Rest day or
Who Was Simon
de Montfort?
THURS
The Spanish
Inquisition
Norman Malta
Maps, Atlases
& Globes
The Story of
British Musicals
(2 day course)
(2 day course)
The Knights
of Malta
British Malta
& Malta Today
FRI
Courses run from Monday-Friday 9.30am-5.00pm
RESIDENT FEES* (£): s 980 t 850 l 915 n 790 H 790
16
Fees include 6 nights en-suite accommodation, full board and
refreshments.
For courses involving a rest day on the Wednesday you may attend a day
course of your choice from the options shown (subject to availability) at
no extra charge.
You may opt out of any of the excursions or activities during the week but
please note there is no reduction of fee. For those booking both weeks of
Summer School please note accommodation is not available on
Saturday 22nd August.
*Day attendees may book for all of the courses above – see the main
programme for fees but please note accommodation is only available
for residents booking for the complete week.
WEEK ONE COURSES
CLARE DU’VERGIER
Be A More Confident Painter (Mon-Fri)
This five day course is designed to challenge
painters with some experience. The emphasis
will be on watercolour, especially for preliminary
work but finished studio pieces could be in any medium. Take time in
the glorious surroundings of Dillington, to unwind and take a critical look
at your own work. Be honest. Are you stuck in a rut? Are you producing
the same slightly tired and overworked paintings time and time again?
Is there a better painter lurking within? Together we will examine the
essential elements of a good painting to find the better painter that exists
within us all.
MIKE HOPE
Private Houses & Gardens of Devon (Mon – Fri*)
Welcome to a county, which is second only to
Yorkshire in size. With two dramatically different
coastlines, an amazing geological and a therefore topographically varied
landscape, it is a county, which is relatively unknown. Beyond the tourist
‘honey-pots’ and the three large urban centres of Plymouth, Torbay and
Exeter, it is a very rural and almost seemingly empty county. Its proud
history is reflected in its buildings and landscapes. Although the county
does not possess great palaces such as Castle Howard and Blenheim it
is in the sheer quantity and quality of smaller mansions and houses,
their contents and gardens, which catches the eye. Over the course of
four days we will visit a range of private properties and gardens spanning
five hundred years of architecture and garden design, including the work
of Repton and Lutyens. The course will start with an introductory
overview lecture on the houses and gardens of Devon.
*Wednesday we will stay at Dillington and have a tour of the Estate and
a day of walks and lectures exploring its architectural history, including
new developments, with a visit to the Estate Church at Whitelackington.
Alternatively, you may wish to have a rest day or attend a day course of
your choice: Simon de Montfort, The Spanish Inquisition or Norman
Malta (subject to availability).
There will be a supplement of £125 for this course towards the cost of
transport and entrance fees.
TIM PORTER
Magna Carta England (Mon- Fri*)
The great Charter is only partly about liberty as such. Most
of it consists of fascinating detail – forests, fish weirs,
personal grievances! But as such, it’s an enthralling insight into England
eight hundred years ago. This four day course tells the gripping story of
how it came about and how it took root, with vivid thumbnail sketches of
the great personalities who brought it to life.
*Wednesday will be a rest day or you may join Tim for a day course on
Simon de Montfort or attend a day course on The Spanish Inquisition or
Norman Malta (subject to availability) at no extra charge.
Who Was Simon de Montfort? (Wed)
The clash between Simon de Montfort and Henry III is one of history’s
greatest narratives. Subjects’ rights versus rulers’ authority – it’s one of
the biggest issues. Yet Simon himself is seldom understood. As
parliamentary pioneer and soldier he excelled; yet self-interest clouded
his thinking and caused his bloody downfall in 1265. His life story is
compelling, and it throws light on some of the greatest themes of history.
WAYNE BENNETT
An Architectural History of Theatres (Mon & Tues)
The invention of dedicated buildings for the
performance of drama, music and spectacle
goes back to the second half of the sixteenth
century. This course will look in detail at the development of the theatre
from the open air arenas of the Shakespearean playhouse to modern
sophisticated architectural machines of today. Along the way we will
examine Jacobean, Restoration and Georgian theatres as well as a range
of music venues, opera houses and Assembly Rooms. The modern
theatre will be considered from its Victorian forebears to the technical
wonders that are able to stage almost anything. As we progress through
time we will also discuss changes to the art forms and the development
of society across the centuries. All-comers welcome.
The Spanish Inquisition (Wed)
Attempting to understand the Spanish Inquisition is challenging.
Its history is complex and the evidence is uneven. Was it as bad as we
think? Probably. This course will examine its origins and development
through the centuries. We will look at how this injurious institution
worked in practice and we’ll try to separate the myths from the realities.
Certainly it was cruel, intolerant and at times worse than you could
possibly imagine. The known facts and extraordinary consequences
will be discussed. All-comers welcome.
Maps, Atlases and Globes (Thurs & Fri)
This wide-ranging course will explore the complex history and fascinating
world of maps and globes. We will start in prehistory and the classical
world before looking at the extraordinary maps of the medieval world
such as the Mappa Mundi. The new maps of the age of discovery will be
discussed as will the impact of printing and the production of first
atlases. We will see how globes developed, look at the origins and
development of the Ordnance Survey, as well as a whole range of special
maps that will surprise and enthrall. Lavishly illustrated throughout, the
course will consider what maps are for, the difficulties of projecting a
three-dimensional world onto a flat surface, maps as objects of great
beauty, as tools of political and military power and as expressions of
intellectual imagination. All-comers welcome.
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WEEK ONE COURSES
CHRIS POLLARD
Sicily: Land of Gods & Poets (Mon & Tues)
No country in Europe can boast as many cultural influences as Sicily.
Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Moors, Normans, Aragonese, French and
Spanish have all left their mark. This Course takes us around the island
visiting all the principal historic sites and towns. We shall experience
Sicily in literature, music and film. We shall savour (virtually) Sicilian
cuisine and wine.
The Story of British Musicals (Thurs & Fri)
This Course follows the not always rosy history of the Musical in Britain.
We follow the mainstream from Noel Coward and Ivor Novello, through
'Salad Days' to the great watershed of 'Oliver' in 1960 and on to the
triumphs of recent decades. As well as the undeniable block-busters
('Jesus Christ Superstar', 'Evita', 'Blood Brothers' 'Les Miserables' and
'Billy Elliot') we shall explore the byways of lesser known works of genius
(and not so).
ADAM D’SOUZA
self-contained course, including a short introductory overview of the
island’s timeline to show the context for the day’s detailed study. No prior
knowledge is required. All-comers welcome.
Ancient Malta (Mon)
Our chronological tour begins straight away in epic fashion with a sweep
of history from c.5000 BC to 850 AD. Malta was first colonised in the
stone age (c.5000 BC) and its dry climate has preserved ancient
Neolithic temples that can still be seen today. In quick succession the
island was colonised by the Phoenicians, Carthaginians and Romans.
The Roman legacy is still present in architecture, artefacts and written
sources. By 440 AD the island had been over-run by the Vandals. The
Byzantines recovered it in the sixth century and held it for over three
hundred years.
Islamic Malta (Tues)
Muslims from North Africa arrived in Malta in 870, conquering the
Byzantine rulers. Although their political dominance of the island was
short-lived, lasting only from 870 to 1127, their cultural legacy was to
stand the test of time. The Aghlabids brought with them new methods of
cultivation, such as the water-wheel; exotic crops like cotton and lemons;
and their language still suffuses modern Maltese today.
Norman Malta (Wed)
Malta became part of the Norman Kingdom of Sicily and Catholicism was
reinstated. This day will be mainly a political history, charting the
individuals and events responsible for Malta’s rising and declining
fortune. Topics include the islands defence and later transition through
the hands of various European royal houses, including the
Hohenstaufens, the Holy Roman Empire, the House of Anjou and the
Aragonese.
The Knights of Malta (Thurs)
No study of Malta would be complete without a rummage through the
cabinet of conspiracies that lies within this secretive chivalric order.
The truth about them is probably less juicy, but nonetheless fascinating.
Malta was handed to the order in 1530 under a lease from Emperor
Charles V. This day will chart the origins and development of the Knights
of Malta, also known as the Order of St John.
Malta: The Blood-Stained Island (Mon-Fri)
This course runs over five self-contained days and you may choose to
attend as many or as few days as you wish.
18
A tour of Malta’s colourful and multi-layered history, from the emergence
of Malta as a strategic crossroads in the ancient world, via the clash
between Islam and Christianity, to the British Empire and the modern
Malta of today. The five days run chronologically and each day will be a
British Malta & Malta Today (Fri)
Our journey ends, perhaps appropriately, with an examination of British
influence on the islands. Malta joined the British Empire in 1814. Its
important location as a waypoint between Gibraltar and Suez led to
economic success. However, during the Second World War the island
also found itself at the crossroads of war. George VI awarded the entire
island the George Cross for its valour. In 1947, Prince Philip and
Princess Elizabeth lived on the island. The course concludes with an
examination of Malta’s independence in 1964 and its subsequent
political history.
Tea Sunday 16 – Breakfast Saturday 22 August
SUMMER SCHOOL WEEK TWO OPTIONS
TIM PORTER
ADAM D’SOUZA
& JAN D. COX
WAYNE BENNETT
The Miracle of
Medieval
Craftsmanship
Milan & Turin
Walking the
Mendips
Venice
Coastal
Somerset
Siena & San
Gimignano
Bristol
THURS
Ferrara
The Exmoor
Chains
FRI
Florence
Exeter
MON
JOHN FARMELO
MARK CORAY
Silk Painting
Big & Bold
Antiques
Repair
Workshop
(5 day course)
(5 day course)
TUES
MIKE HOPE
Hidden
Landscapes,
Hidden
Treasures
CHRIS POLLARD
The Joy of
Spanish
(4 day course)
(4 day course)
(4 days out &
about and a day
at Dillington)
Rest day
or Spanish
Cinema From
the 1970s
WED
Rest day or
Magna Carta –
What it Was &
How it
Happened
Courses run from Monday-Friday 9.30am-5.00pm
RESIDENT FEES* (£): s 980 t 850 l 915 n 790 H 790
Fees include 6 nights en-suite accommodation, full board and
refreshments.
You may opt out of any of the excursions or activities during the week but
please note there is no reduction of fee. For those booking both weeks of
Summer School please note accommodation is not available on
Saturday 22nd August.
For courses involving a rest day on the Wednesday you may attend a day
course* of your choice from the options shown above at no extra charge.
Alternatively you may join the *Bristol city visit for which a supplement
of £40 applies (*subject to availability).
*Day attendees may book for all of the courses above – see the main
programme for fees but please note accommodation is only available
for residents booking for the complete week.
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WEEK TWO COURSES
JOHN FARMELO
Silk Painting Big & Bold (Mon-Fri)
Silk painting is an accessible and hugely
enjoyable medium, which is suitable for all
levels of ability. This five day course is suitable
for experienced silk painters and for complete
beginners. It starts with an introduction to the
basic techniques including; gutta, wet-in-wet and salt effects. However
most of the course will be devoted to participants own projects. There will
also be on-going tutor demonstrations by the tutor.
MARK CORAY
Antiques Repair Workshop (Mon-Fri)
This practical enjoyable and five day course
will give you an opportunity to participate and
learn from an expert ‘everything you ever
wanted to know about furniture but were afraid
to ask’. You will spend each day in the tutor’s
own workshop where specific problems and techniques will be addressed.
In addition, the important question, ‘Is it really worth repairing?’ will be
addressed. The tutor will provide examples and demonstrations but please
bring with you a small piece of furniture in need of some repair. Please
note you will need to make your own way to the tutor’s studio each day
where lunch and refreshments will be provided by the wonderful Mrs Coray.
MIKE HOPE
Hidden Landscapes, Hidden Treasures of the
West Country (Mon-Fri*)
Off the beaten track and boasting stunningly
beautiful landscapes, each of the areas to be
visited possess a unique set of characteristics
and a wealth of evidence of human occupation
over the last five thousand years. Each day you will visit, hear and see
about events, places, buildings, monuments, people, the geology and the
topography. All of these areas have served as and continue to act as the
inspiration for artists, designers, writers and poets. The areas visited will
include West Somerset – Where the Quantocks meet the Sea, Wiltshire The Nadder Valley, East Devon – The Exe and Otter Valleys and West Dorset
– The Chesil Coast and The Bride Valley. *On Wednesday we will stay at
Dillington and have a tour of the Estate and a day of walks and lectures
exploring Dillington’s architectural history, including new developments,
and a visit to the Estate Church at Whitelackington.
There is a supplement of £100 for this course towards the cost of transport
and entrance fees.
20
*Alternatively you may wish to have a rest day, attend any of the day
courses or join Wayne Bennett on the city visit to Bristol (supplement of
£40 applies). Places are subject to availability
CHRIS POLLARD
The Joy of Spanish (Mon-Fri*)
This four day course is for those with a
good level of Spanish, who find the
language irresistible. We shall
concentrate on the spoken word but pay
due attention also to the structure of
Spanish and to improving comprehension skills. A variety of media will
be employed to stimulate language use. During the week we shall watch
a film, read the poetry of Juan Ramon Jimenez, read 'De Amor y De
Sombra' by Isabel Allende and focus on the culture of Madrid.
*Wednesday is a rest day or you may join Chris for a day looking at
Spanish Cinema from the 1970s, attend a day course or join Wayne
Bennett on the city visit to Bristol (supplement of £40 applies). Places
are subject to availability.
Spanish Cinema from the 1970s (Wed)
This course focuses on the extraordinary revolution in Spanish Cinema
just before and just after the death of Franco. Among many others we
shall watch extended extracts from Buñuel's last film and Almodovar's
first. All films will be shown with English subtitles.
TIM PORTER
The Miracle of Medieval Craftsmanship
(Mon-Fri*)
The people who created the great
woodcarving and wall painting, stone
carving and stained glass – they were the
elite of the medieval workforce. This four
day course takes a journey through their world, showing spectacular
images of their masterworks, and suggesting exciting new ways to look at
them and to assess their significance. The glowing colours of glass, the
sumptuous sheen of alabaster – these things are beautiful in themselves,
but they also help us get inside the minds of our forebears who created
them.
*Wednesday is a rest day or you may join Tim for a day on the Magna
Carta, attend any of the day courses or join Wayne Bennett on the city
to Bristol (supplement of £40 applies). Places are subject to availability.
Magna Carta – What it Was & How it Happened (Wed)
The Great Charter of 1215 is one of those historical landmarks which
needs constant re-evaluation. Nothing can detract from the gripping
story of how it came about – a story of war, treason, political skulduggery
and genuine idealism. Its importance shifts over the centuries, yet it
always has something to say, and we ignore its spirit at our peril!
WEEK TWO COURSES
ADAM D’SOUZA &
JAN D. COX
Italy: A Grand Tour
This course runs over five self-contained
days and you may choose to attend as many
or as few days as you wish.
Until very recently Italy was a mosaic of independent micro-states, which
leaves a legacy of very distinctive cultures in each city we visit. Adam
D’Souza will guide you through each city’s history, ancient and modern,
charting the development of its unique culture. Our focus will be on
each city’s social and political history, discovering questionable
personalities and architectural landmarks. Jan Cox will lead an
exploration of the works of each city’s most famous artist, illustrating how
their work was influenced by the place they worked and the times in
which they lived. We shall go on to discuss other related artists in order
to place their work in chronological and stylistic context.
A selection of authentic Italian regional delicacies and drinks will be
served each day, courtesy of Italy in a Box, to completely immerse you in
the flavours of the city. Both tutors will make extensive use of interactive
material to bring the story of each city to life through its beautiful art,
architecture and landscapes.
Milan & Turin (Mon)
Artist in residence: Leonardo da Vinci
Topics will include the despotic Sforzas; squabbling for the Papacy;
Ferrari, Fiat and the post-war economic boom.
Venice (Tues)
Artist in residence: Lorenzo Lotto
Topics will include the crusades, Marco Polo and Asian trade, and
Venetian music.
Siena & San Gimignano (Wed)
Artist in residence: Simone Martini and Lippo Memmi
The focus today will be on Etruscomania, the Palio, Italian banking,
Renaissance architecture and humanism.
Ferrara (Thurs)
Artist in residence: Cosmé Tura
Today we discover the Este family, Ariosto and the Italian language,
Savanarola and European Luddite movements.
Florence (Fri)
Artist in residence: Sandro Botticelli
The focus today will be on Medici, Shakespearean depictions of Italy,
parallels: the Roman Republic and Florence.
WAYNE BENNETT
Five self-contained excursions to get
out-and-about and explore beautiful
places in Somerset and Devon. The
walking days will include 4-5 hours
intermittent leisurely walking over varied
and occasionally uneven ground, which
may include stiles. The city visits by definition will involve less walking
but we may be on our feet for most of the visit. There is a supplement of
£135 for the full week towards the cost of transport and entrance fees.
Walking the Mendips (Mon)
The Mendips define the northern geography of Somerset. We will
approach the start of our walk by driving up the dramatic Cheddar
Gorge. We will encounter some truly ancient sites and learn why the
Romans favoured this upland area. Low cloud notwithstanding, the
views are fantastic.
Coastal Somerset (Tues)
The county’s coast is little known or explored and so we will put that to
rights. Dividing the day into two (with lunch in between) we walk the
shoreline and fill our lungs with bracing sea air. The first of our walks will
be from Brean Down southwards. The second will be geologically more
dramatic with a start from near Kilve.
Bristol (Wed)
Bristol is a city full of surprises. Once one of England’s most important
ports it hides up a tidal river out of harms way. Its story is caught up in
the sordid business of slavery and the now dubious pleasure of smoking.
It was from Bristol that the Genoese adventurer Giovanni Caboto set sail
across the northern Atlantic during the reign of Henry VIII. Amongst the
highlights of our day we will explore a replica of his ship The Matthew.
The Exmoor Chains (Thurs)
It is said that Exmoor is the least visited National Park in the country.
Fortunately for us, this means that we can walk for miles without seeing
anyone! For our walk we will be up on the high moor where the sky and
land touch – Magic!
Exeter (Fri)
Our second city trip this week is to the Roman and cathedral city of
Exeter. Although heavily bombed in the war there is much which is old
and interesting including sections of Roman wall, underground
passages, the castle and the recently refurbished and award-winning
museum. The city is compact and vibrant with lots to see and explore.
21
22
[email protected]
www.dillington.com
Be A More Confident Painter
Monday 10 – Friday 14 August
Fee: £300
Includes three course lunch & refreshments each day For resident fees see page 16
This five day course is designed to challenge painters with some experience.
The emphasis will be on watercolour, especially for preliminary work but
finished studio pieces could be in any medium. Take time in the glorious
surroundings of Dillington, to unwind and take a critical look at your own
work. Be honest. Are you stuck in a rut? Are you producing the same slightly
tired and overworked paintings time and time again? Is there a better painter
lurking within? Together we will examine the essential elements of a good
painting to find the better painter that exists within us all.
Tutor: Clare DuVergier
Private Houses & Gardens of Devon
Monday 10 – Friday 14 August (*excludes Wednesday 12th)
Fee: £365
Includes transport, entrance fees, packed lunch & refreshments each day* For resident fees see page 16
With two dramatically different coastlines, an amazing geological and a
therefore topographically varied landscape, Devon is a county, which is
relatively unknown. Beyond the tourist ‘honey-pots’ and the three large
urban centres of Plymouth, Torbay and Exeter, it is a very rural and almost
seemingly empty county. Its proud history is reflected in its buildings and
landscapes. Although the county does not possess great palaces such as
Castle Howard and Blenheim it is in the sheer quantity and quality of smaller
mansions and houses, their contents and gardens, which catches the eye.
Over four days we will visit a range of private properties and gardens
spanning five hundred years of architecture and garden design, including
the work of Repton and Lutyens. The course will start with an introductory
overview lecture on the houses and gardens of Devon. All-comers welcome.
Tutor: Mike Hope
AUG
Bookings & Enquiries 01460 258613
On Wednesday 12th Mike Hope is offering a day exploring the architectural
history of Dillington, which includes a walk to the Estate Church at
Whitelackington, for an additional fee of £60 (includes three course lunch &
refreshments).
Magna Carta England
Monday 10 – Friday 14 August (*excludes Wednesday 12th)
Fee: £240
Includes three course lunch & refreshments each day* For resident fees see page 16
The great Charter is only partly about liberty as such. Most of it consists of
fascinating detail – forests, fish weirs, personal grievances! But as such, it’s
an enthralling insight into England eight hundred years ago. This four day
course tells the gripping story of how it came about and how it took root, with
vivid thumbnail sketches of the great personalities who brought it to life.
All-comers welcome. On Wednesday 12th Tim Porter is presenting a day
course on Simon de Montfort. Tutor: Tim Porter
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Ancient Malta
The Spanish Inquisition
Mon 10 August
Fee: £60
Malta was first colonised in the Stone Age (c.5000 BC) and its dry
climate has preserved ancient Neolithic temples that can still be seen
today. In quick succession the island was colonised by the Phoenicians,
Carthaginians and Romans. The Roman legacy is still present in
architecture, artefacts and written sources. By 440 AD the island had
been over-run by the Vandals. The Byzantines recovered it in the sixth
century and held it for over three hundred years. All-comers welcome.
Tutor: Adam D’Souza
Wednesday 12 August
Fee: £60
Attempting to understand the Spanish Inquisition is challenging. Its
history is complex and the evidence is uneven. Was it as bad as we
think? Probably. This course will examine its origins and development
through the centuries. We will look at how this injurious institution
worked in practice and we’ll try to separate the myths from the realities.
Certainly it was cruel, intolerant and at times worse than you could
possibly imagine. The known facts and extraordinary consequences will
be discussed. All-comers welcome.Tutor: Wayne Bennett
An Architectural History of Theatres
Norman Malta
Monday 10 & Tuesday 11 August
Fee: £120
The invention of dedicated buildings for the performance of drama,
music and spectacle goes back to the second half of the sixteenth
century. This two day course will look in detail at the development of the
theatre from the open air arenas of the Shakespearean playhouse to
modern sophisticated architectural machines of today. Along the way we
will examine Jacobean, Restoration and Georgian theatres as well as a
range of music venues, opera houses and Assembly Rooms. The
modern theatre will be considered from its Victorian forebears to the
technical wonders that are able to stage almost anything. As we
progress through time we will also discuss changes to the art forms and
the development of society across the centuries. All-comers welcome.
Tutor: Wayne Bennett
Wednesday 12 August
Fee: £60
Malta became part of the Norman Kingdom of Sicily and Catholicism was
reinstated. This day will be mainly a political history, charting the
individuals and events responsible for Malta’s rising and declining
fortune. Topics include the islands defence and later transition through
the hands of various European royal houses, including the
Hohenstaufens, the Holy Roman Empire, the House of Anjou and the
Aragonese. All-comers welcome. Tutor: Adam D’Souza
AUG
Sicily: Land of Gods & Poets
Monday 10 & Tuesday 11 August
Fee: £120
No country in Europe can boast as many cultural influences as Sicily.
Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Moors, Normans, Aragonese, French,
and Spanish have all left their mark. This two day course takes us
around the island visiting all the principal historic sites and towns. We
shall experience Sicily in literature, music and film. We shall savour
(virtually) Sicilian cuisine and wine. All-comers welcome.
Tutor: Chris Pollard
Islamic Malta
24
Tuesday 11 August
Fee: £60
Muslims from North Africa arrived in Malta in 870, conquering the
Byzantine rulers. Although their political dominance of the island was
short-lived, lasting only from 870 to 1127, their cultural legacy was to
stand the test of time. The Aghlabids brought with them new methods of
cultivation, such as the water-wheel; exotic crops like cotton and lemons;
and their language still suffuses modern Maltese today. All-comers
welcome. Tutor: Adam D’Souza
Who Was Simon de Montfort?
Wednesday 12 August
Fee: £60
The clash between Simon de Montfort and Henry III is one of history’s
greatest narratives. Subjects’ rights versus rulers’ authority – it’s one of
the biggest issues. Yet Simon himself is seldom understood. As
parliamentary pioneer and soldier he excelled; yet self-interest clouded
his thinking and caused his bloody downfall in 1265. His life story is
compelling, and it throws light on some of the greatest themes of history.
All-comers welcome. Tutor: Tim Porter
The Story of British Musicals
Thursday 13 & Friday 14 August
Fee: £120
This two day course follows the not always rosy history of the Musical in
Britain. We follow the mainstream from Noel Coward and Ivor Novello,
through 'Salad Days' to the great watershed of 'Oliver' in 1960 and
on to the triumphs of recent decades. As well as the undeniable
block-busters ('Jesus Christ Superstar', 'Evita', 'Blood Brothers' 'Les
Miserables' and 'Billy Elliot') we shall explore the byways of lesser
known works of genius (and not so). All-comers welcome.
Tutor: Chris Pollard
Bookings & Enquiries 01460 258613
[email protected]
www.dillington.com
Maps, Atlases and Globes
Silk Painting Big & Bold
Thursday 13 & Friday 14 August
Fee: £120
This wide-ranging two day course will explore the complex history and
fascinating world of maps and globes. We will start in prehistory and the
classical world before looking at the extraordinary maps of the medieval
world such as the Mappa Mundi. The new maps of the age of discovery
will be discussed as will the impact of printing and the production of first
atlases. We will see how globes developed, look at the origins and
development of the Ordnance Survey, as well as a whole range of special
maps that will surprise and enthrall. Lavishly illustrated throughout, the
course will consider what maps are for, the difficulties of projecting a
three-dimensional world onto a flat surface, maps as objects of great
beauty, as tools of political and military power and as expressions of
intellectual imagination. All-comers welcome.
Tutor: Wayne Bennett
Monday 17 – Friday 21 August
Fee: £300
Includes three course lunch & refreshments each day For resident fees see page 21
Silk painting is an accessible and hugely enjoyable medium, which is
suitable for all levels of ability. This five day course is suitable for
experienced silk painters and for complete beginners. It starts with an
introduction to the basic techniques including; gutta, wet-in-wet and salt
effects. However most of the course will be devoted to participants own
projects. There will also be on-going demonstrations by the tutor.
Tutor: John Farmelo
The Knights of Malta
Thursday 13 August
Fee: £60
No study of Malta would be complete without a rummage through the
cabinet of conspiracies that lies within this secretive chivalric order. The
truth about them is probably less juicy, but nonetheless fascinating.
Malta was handed to the order in 1530 under a lease from Emperor
Charles V. This day will chart the origins and development of the Knights
of Malta, also known as the Order of St John. All-comers welcome.
Tutor: Adam D’Souza
Friday 14 August
Fee: £60
Our journey ends, perhaps appropriately, with an examination of British
influence on the islands. Malta joined the British Empire in 1814. Its
important location as a waypoint between Gibraltar and Suez led to
economic success. However, during the Second World War the island
also found itself at the crossroads of war. George VI awarded the entire
island the George Cross for its valour. In 1947, Prince Philip and
Princess Elizabeth lived on the island. The course concludes with an
examination of Malta’s independence in 1964 and its subsequent
political history. All-comers welcome. Tutor: Adam D’Souza
Absolute
masterclass
“Absolute masterclass”
AUG
British Malta & Malta Today
Antiques Repair Workshop
Monday 17 – Friday 21 August
Fee: £300
Includes three course lunch & refreshments each day For resident fees see page 21
This practical enjoyable and five day course will give you an opportunity
to participate and learn from an expert ‘everything you ever wanted to
know about furniture but were afraid to ask’. You will spend each day in
the tutor’s own workshop where specific problems and techniques will be
addressed. In addition, the important question, ‘Is it really worth
repairing?’ will be addressed. The tutor will provide examples and
demonstrations but please bring with you a small piece of furniture in
need of some repair. Please note you will need to make your own way to
the tutor’s studio each day where lunch and refreshments will be
provided. Tutor: Mark Coray
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Hidden Landscapes, Hidden Treasures of the West Country
Walking the Mendips
Monday 17 – Friday 21 August
Fees: £400
Includes transport, entrance fees with packed lunch (three course lunch
on Wednesday) & refreshments each day - For resident fees see page 19
Off the beaten track and boasting stunningly beautiful landscapes, each
of the areas to be visited possess a unique set of characteristics and a
wealth of evidence of human occupation over the last five thousand
years. Each day you will visit, hear and see about events, places,
buildings, monuments, people, the geology and the topography. All of
these areas have served as and continue to act as the inspiration for
artists, designers, writers and poets. The areas visited will include West
Somerset – Where the Quantocks meet the Sea, Wiltshire - The Nadder
Valley, East Devon – The Exe and Otter Valleys and West Dorset – The
Chesil Coast and The Bride Valley. On Wednesday we will be at Dillington
for a tour of the Estate and a day of walks and lectures exploring its
architectural history, including new developments, and a visit to the
Estate Church at Whitelackington. Tutor: Mike Hope
Monday 17 August
Fee: £80
The Mendips define the northern geography of Somerset. We will
approach the start of our walk by driving up the dramatic Cheddar Gorge.
We will encounter some truly ancient sites and learn why the Romans
favoured this upland area. Low cloud notwithstanding, the views are
fantastic. All-comers welcome but please note the walk will include 4-5
hours intermittent leisurely walking over varied and occasionally uneven
ground, which may include stiles. Tutor: Wayne Bennett
The Joy of Spanish
AUG
26
Monday 17 – Friday 21 August (*excludes Wednesday 19th)
Fee: £240
Includes three course lunch & refreshments each day* For resident fees see page 19
This four day course is for those with a good level of Spanish, who find
the language irresistible. We shall concentrate on the spoken word but
pay due attention also to the structure of Spanish and to improving
comprehension skills. A variety of media will be employed to stimulate
language use. During the week we shall watch a film, read the poetry of
Juan Ramon Jimenez, read 'De Amor y De Sombra' by Isabel Allende
and focus on the culture of Madrid. On Wednesday 19th Chris Pollard is
presenting a day on Spanish Cinema from the 1970s – see below for full
details. Tutor: Chris Pollard
Milan & Turin
Monday 17 August
Fee: £60
Our focus of the day will be on the cities social and political history,
discovering questionable personalities and architectural landmarks.
During the day we will discuss the despotic Sforzas; squabbling for the
Papacy; Ferrari, Fiat and the post-war economic boom. Jan Cox will
also lead an exploration of the works of the artist Leonardo da Vinci,
illustrating how his work was influenced by the place he worked and the
times in which he lived. Tutors: Adam D’Souza & Jan D. Cox
Coastal Somerset Walk
Tuesday 18 August
Fee: £80
The county’s coast is little known or explored and so we will put that to
rights. Dividing the day into two (with lunch in between) we walk the
shoreline and fill our lungs with bracing sea air. The first of our walks will
be from Brean Down southwards. The second will be geologically more
dramatic with a start from near Kilve. All-comers welcome but please
note the walk will include 4-5 hours intermittent leisurely walking over
varied and occasionally uneven ground, which may include stiles.
Tutor: Wayne Bennett
The Miracle of Medieval Craftsmanship
The City of Venice
Monday 17 – Friday 21 August (*excludes Wednesday 19th)
Fee: £240
Includes three course lunch & refreshments each day* For resident fees see page 19
The people who created the great woodcarving and wall painting, stone
carving and stained glass – they were the elite of the medieval workforce.
This four day course takes a journey through their world, showing spectacular
images of their masterworks, and suggesting exciting new ways to look at
them and to assess their significance. The glowing colours of glass, the
sumptuous sheen of alabaster – these things are beautiful in themselves,
but they also help us get inside the minds of our forebears who created
them. All-comers welcome. Tim Porter is presenting a day on the Magna
Carta on Wednesday 19th – see below for full details.
Tutor: Tim Porter
Tuesday 18 August
Fee: £60
Our focus of the day will be on the city’s social and political history,
discovering questionable personalities and architectural landmarks.
During the day we will discuss the crusades, Marco Polo and Asian trade,
and Venetian music. Jan Cox will also lead an exploration of the works of
the artist Lorenzo Lotto, illustrating how his work was influenced by the
place he worked and the times in which he lived.
Tutors: Adam D’Souza & Jan D. Cox
Bookings & Enquiries 01460 258613
[email protected]
www.dillington.com
The Great War - News from the Fronts - August 1915
Magna Carta – What it Was & How it Happened
Tuesday 18 August
Fee: £50 (Book five of Mike Shaw’s day courses in this programme at the
same time and save £4 on each)
We continue our series of standalone day courses on the major events of
the Great War across all theatres as they occurred exactly one hundred
years ago. By mid-Summer 1915 the British had regained command of
the sea in both blue waters and the North Sea. After the second Battle
of Ypres stalemate had returned to the Western Front and the focus of
the Central Powers and the British had turned eastwards. In Poland the
Russian retreat continued in good order but the Allied expedition on the
Gallipoli peninsula had stalled. How these latter events inter-related will
be considered in detail. All-comers welcome. Tutor: Mike Shaw
Wednesday 19 August
Fee: £60
The Great Charter of 1215 is one of those historical landmarks which
needs constant re-evaluation. Nothing can detract from the gripping
story of how it came about – a story of war, treason, political skulduggery
and genuine idealism. Its importance shifts over the centuries, yet it
always has something to say, and we ignore its spirit at our peril!
All-comers welcome. Tutor: Tim Porter
Exploring Bristol’s Historic Past
Wednesday 19 August
Fee: £100
Bristol is a city full of surprises. Once one of England’s most important
ports it hides up a tidal river out of harms way. Its story is caught up in
the sordid business of slavery and the now dubious pleasure of smoking.
It was from Bristol that the Genoese adventurer Giovanni Caboto set sail
across the northern Atlantic during the reign of Henry VIII. Amongst the
highlights of our day trip to Bristol we will explore a replica of his ship
The Matthew. All-comers welcome but please note we will be on our feet
for most of the day. Tutor: Wayne Bennett
Wednesday 19 August
Fee: £60
This course focuses on the extraordinary revolution in Spanish Cinema
just before and just after the death of Franco. Among many others we
shall watch extended extracts from Buñuel's last film and Almodovar's
first. All films will be shown with English subtitles. All-comers welcome.
Tutor: Chris Pollard
The Cities of Siena & San Gimignano
Wednesday 19 August
Fee: £60
Our focus of the day will be on the cities social and political history,
discovering questionable personalities and architectural landmarks.
During the day we will discuss Etruscomania, the Palio, Italian banking,
Renaissance architecture and humanism. Jan Cox will also lead an
exploration of the works of the artists Simone Martini and Lippo Memmi,
illustrating how their work was influenced by the place they worked and
the times in which they lived. Tutors: Adam D’Souza & Jan D. Cox
'Whodunnit!' The Rise and Rise of the
British Detective Novel
Wednesday 19 August
Fee: £50
This day course will examine the development of the detective novel over
150 years. Books will include: The Moonstone (Wilkie Collins 1868);
A Study in Scarlet (Sir Arthur Conan-Doyle 1887); The Murder of Roger
Ackroyd (Agatha Christie 1926); The Nine Tailors (Dorothy L Sayers
1934)); A Fatal Inversion (Ruth Rendell writing as Barbara Vine 1987)
and The Private Patient (P.D. James 2008). All-comers welcome but
familiarity with some or all of the novels would be helpful.
Tutor: Liz Merry
AUG
Spanish Cinema From the 1970s
Walking The Exmoor Chains
Thursday 20 August
Fee: £80
It is said that Exmoor is the least visited National Park in the country.
Fortunately for us, this means that we can walk for miles without seeing
anyone! For our walk we will be up on the high moor where the sky and
land touch. Magic. All-comers welcome but please note the walk will
include 4-5 hours intermittent leisurely walking over varied and
occasionally uneven ground, which may include stiles.
Tutor: Wayne Bennett
27
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The City of Ferrara
Fairytale Castle & Pop-up Story
Thursday 20 August
Fee: £60
Our focus of the day will be on the city’s social and political history,
discovering questionable personalities and architectural landmarks.
During the day we will discuss the Este family, Ariosto and the Italian
language, Savanarola and European Luddite movements. Jan Cox will
also lead an exploration of the works of the artist Cosmé Tura, illustrating
how his work was influenced by the place he worked and the times in
which he lived. Tutors: Adam D’Souza & Jan D. Cox
Tea Monday 7 – Breakfast Thursday 10 September
Fees (£): s 503 t 425 l 471 n 393 H 393 u 251
During this course we will make a castle with turrets that swing open to
reveal an inner chamber with a relief scene on one side and a pull out
pop-up book on the other. Our story, ‘Katushka and the Green Oak
Forest’, is traditional Eastern European and tells of a poor girl whose life
is saved by an oak tree. The narrative is portrayed as pictures in a popup accordion book. This course is for beginners and those experienced
in constructing with paper. Tutor: Paul Johnson
Historical Exeter
September in Somerset
Friday 21 August
Fee: £100
For this city trip we visit the Roman and cathedral city of Exeter.
Although heavily bombed in the war there is much which is old and
interesting including sections of Roman wall, underground passages, the
castle and the recently refurbished and award-winning museum. The
city is compact and vibrant with lots to see and explore. All-comers
welcome but please note we will be on our feet for most of the day.
Tutor: Wayne Bennett
Monday 7 – Thursday 10 September
Fees (£): s 340 t 262 l 307 n 230 H 230
Dillington is located in a beautiful and varied part of England. Somerset
is a county rich in history and landscape with the sea not far away to
both the north and south. Stay for three nights on a dinner, bed and
breakfast basis and be free to explore not just this wonderful county but
neighbouring West Dorset and East Devon as well. Fee includes tea and
cake on arrival.
The City of Florence
AUG
Friday 21 August
Fee: £60
Our focus of the day will be on the city’s social and political history,
discovering questionable personalities and architectural landmarks.
During the day we will discuss Medici, Shakespearean depictions of Italy
and parallels: the Roman Republic and Florence. Jan Cox will also lead
an exploration of the works of the artist Sandro Botticelli, illustrating how
his work was influenced by the place he worked and the times in which
he lived. Tutors: Adam D’Souza & Jan D. Cox
Lucian Freud & Francis Bacon – The Early Years
Dinnner Monday 7 - Lunch Wednesday 9 September
Fees (£):s 367 t 315 l 346 n 294 H 294 u 199
Lucian Freud and Francis Bacon are well-known as perhaps the two
most successful British artists of the twentieth century. However, their
success was not always assured, and so we will explore their early years
and artworks, focusing on the 1940’s and 1950’s. We will examine their
lives, loves and artistic influences and discover why they, among many
other artists, were the ones to succeed. All-comers welcome.
Tutor: Jan. D.Cox
28
An Introduction to Free-Machine Embroidery
Tuesday 15 September
Fee: £50
Discover how to use your sewing machine to draw, embellish and
embroider with a wide range of threads. This inspiring and informal
course allows you the freedom to explore different stitch techniques and
to experiment at your own pace. Leave with many samples and the skills
and confidence to work independently. Aimed at those with competent
sewing machine skills. Tutor: Jenni Cadman
Bookings & Enquiries 01460 258613
[email protected]
News from the Fronts: September 1915 –
Autumn battles begin in all Theatres
Tuesday 15 September
Fee: £50 (Book five of Mike Shaw’s day courses in this programme at the
same time and save £4 on each)
On 5 September Czar Nicolas II assumed command of the Russian
Armies in the field leaving Czarina Alexandra in charge of the government
of Holy Russia. On the Western Front the French were shortly to open
their Autumn offensives in Artois and Champagne. The British
contribution would be the battle of Loos. On the Gallipoli peninsular a
British attack was being planned for Scimitar Hill and in Mesopotamia
British forces had overcome Turkish defences at Kut. How these events
inter-related will be considered in detail. Tutor: Mike Shaw
www.dillington.com
String Quartet Coaching Weekend
Dinner Friday 25 – Tea Sunday 27 September
Fees (£): s 447 t 393 l 425 n 370 H 370 u 271
Following their success last year, The Coull Quartet will lead a further
weekend of coaching for string quartets who play to a good standard. The
Coull are one of the finest and most experienced quartets in the country
and they are delighted to come back to Dillington for a weekend of
serious music-making and fun. The course includes a ticket for the
Sunday afternoon concert by the Coull Quartet.
Tutors: The Coull Quartet
The Coull Quartet
Go Gospel!
Monday 21 September
Fee: £50
What better way to remember the heat of summer than by singing some
red-hot gospel! Spend the day creating that special gospel group sound
as we explore a variety of gospel styles from early spirituals to RnB gospel
of the present day. You’ll learn about vocal technique, harmony singing
and the gospel performance style as well as having a go at the swaying
and clapping. No music-reading ability required.
Tutor: Jo Sercombe
Sunday 27 September 2.30pm
Tickets £16 (under 18s £8)
Pre-booked lunches £17
The magnificent Coull Quartet offers a rare combination of maturity and
freshness and we are delighted that they are once more returning to
Dillington. For this year’s concert their programme includes Haydn’s
Quartet in F Opus 74 No.2, Debussy’s only String Quartet Opus 10 and
Beethoven’s Quartet in E flat Opus 74 'The Harp'.
This concert is sponsored by a Friend of Dillington.
Dinner Friday 25 – Tea Sunday 27 September
Fees (£): s 396 t 342 l 374 n 319 H 319 u 220
The French capital has enjoyed a rich musical life for many centuries.
Rarely, though, have as many artistic cross-currents and remarkable
talents been found together as at the turn of the nineteenth to the
twentieth century in Paris. In this course, we shall encounter chamber,
orchestral, operatic and sacred works by figures as diverse as Fauré,
Massenet, Ravel and Stravinsky, with examples of their work on CD and
DVD. All-comers welcome. The course includes a ticket for the Sunday
afternoon concert by the Coull Quartet. Tutor: Gwyn Parry-Jones
SEPT
A New Musical Era: Paris from 1890-1914
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Argyll Scottish Country Dancing Weekend
Vaughan Williams and Folk Song
Dinner Friday 2 – Lunch Sunday 4 October
Fees (£): s 417 t 361 l 395 n 339 H 339 u 229
Suitable for those who already have a good working knowledge of
common steps and formations in Scottish Country Dancing, this
weekend will provide you with an opportunity to improve your technique,
learn new dances and enjoy all social aspects of Scottish Country
Dancing. There will be social dancing on Friday and Saturday and
classes both Saturday and Sunday morning and an optional workshop
on Saturday afternoon. Please note this weekend is not suitable for
beginners. The balance of fees for this weekend will be payable by 10
August 2015.
Tutors: Duncan Brown and Muriel Johnstone
Musicians: Judith Muir and Robert Mackay
Monday 5 October
Fee: £50
At the beginning of the 20th Century Vaughan Williams was approaching
his thirties and had become acutely aware that the move from the land
to the cities was killing off our store of folk tunes. He became an avid
collector of a part of our culture threatened with extinction. This course
will examine the nature and origin of folk song (not to be confused with
"folk") and the way it permeated the music of Vaughan Williams and his
friend Gustav Holst. Tutor: Eric Wetherell
Argyll Scottish Country Musicians Weekend
Dinner Friday 2 – Lunch Sunday 4 October
Fees (£): s 417 t 361 l 395 n 339 H 339 u 229
For musicians interested in playing for Scottish Country Dancing within a
band; no experience of band playing is required. A practical grounding
in all aspects of band musicianship and playing for dancing, drawn from
Ian’s experience over 35 years. Learn the characteristics of the Reel, Jig
and Strathspey, uniquely Scottish instrumental techniques, phrasing,
sequencing and repertoire, the body language associated with drive and
lift … and more besides! The balance of fees for this weekend will be
payable by 10 August 2015. Day and Single night rates available on
request (subject to availability). Tutor: Ian Muir
Singing for Larks –
Singing in Harmony Weekend
Dinner Friday 9 – Tea Sunday 11 October
Fees (£): s 420 t 366 l 398 n 343 H 343 u 244 : 65
Singing with others is an exhilarating and liberating experience that
everybody can enjoy. Singings for Larks workshops, run by Faith Watson,
are based on the tradition of learning songs by ear. This approach makes
the joy of singing with others easily accessible to those who are new to
singing, whilst offering more experienced singers the opportunity to
develop their aural skills. On this Singing in Harmony workshop the
songs are drawn from a variety of cultures and styles, from international
folk to soul, from golden oldies to original songs - all carefully chosen
and arranged to inspire people of different abilities and tastes to sing
together in perfect harmony. To Book: telephone the Bookings Office
01460 258613. For further information about Singing for Larks and this
course, go to: www.singingforlarks.co.uk or you can contact Singing for
Larks direct: [email protected] 0161 881 0855.
Tutor: Faith Watson
Matisse & The Fauves
OCT
Saturday 10 October
Fee: £50
Henri Matisse was the co-founder, with André Derain, of the Fauves
(wild beasts), a movement that lasted from 1904-1908. We shall be
discussing works by these two artists and those of several other
members of the group, such as Maurice de Vlaminck, Raoul Dufy and
Georges Braque. We will explore the ideas and inspirations which led to
the incredibly innovative, expressive and intense method of painting of
the Fauves and, in particular, the life and work of Henri Matisse (18691954). All-comers welcome. Tutor: Jennifer Spiers
:
30
Weekend Plus
You can extend your weekends by staying an extra night for a special
tariff of £65 subject to availability. This covers a light supper and
accommodation on Sunday night, and a full English breakfast on
Monday morning.
Bookings & Enquiries 01460 258613
[email protected]
www.dillington.com
West Country Ports & Shipping
Schoenberg - The Later Tonal Music
Saturday 10 October
Fee: £50
The West Country has over 700 miles of coastline from Poole to
Sharpness, home to diverse maritime activities from fishing and
commercial ports to dockyards, ship-building and repair yards.
Isolated quays and sheltered creeks have served specialist trades,
while hazardous rocks have seen tragic shipwrecks despite lighthouses
and other navigational aids. This day is part of a series exploring the
archaeology and heritage of transport in the region. All-comers welcome.
Tutor: Dr Peter Stanier
Saturday 10 October
Fee: £50
Arnold Schoenberg was passionate about tonal music in his teaching
particularly. He also never ceased to love composing tonal music.
A number of commentators believe there are many tonal references
in his so-called atonal and “12-note” method music also. Indeed,
Schoenberg himself offered a major key harmonisation of the theme
from his Variations. Schoenberg’s beautifully crafted melodious tonal
output has been obscured by more infamous pieces as well as by
misunderstandings of the man and his music. He loved Bach, Haydn,
Mozart , Beethoven and Brahms – this is clear not only from his writings
and teaching but also from his own output. Be prepared to be delighted
by Schoenberg the traditionalist! This is the third Schoenberg day course
presented by Al Summers at Dillington, following on the success of the
previous days. It is suitable for newcomers, those who attended previous
courses, listeners and musicians alike.
Tutor: Al Summers
Discover the Bridgwater-Taunton Canal
and Lower River Parrett
Saturday 10 October
Fee: £80
David Hunt’s minibus tour explores the best of the Bridgwater Taunton
Canal and the River Parrett below Bridgwater. Enjoy beautiful
countryside, out of the way places and (weather permitting) some
interesting views with excellent photo opportunities. See historic locks,
bridges and docks and learn about the Second World War defences
along these waterways. Packed lunches and refreshments will be
provided. All comers welcome but please note there may be some
walking on rough ground. Tutor: David Hunt
Saturday 10 October
Fee: £50
If you have hit a brick wall in your family history research or simply need
a few pointers in the right direction, this one day workshop will provide
you with the opportunity to come along and carry out your own research
on your own laptop, whilst receiving guidance and advice from the tutor.
Numbers are limited to ensure that there is plenty of time for each
participant to be given the help and guidance they require. This
workshop is suitable for those who have attended the Introductory
Day or have started researching and need help. Please note that to
access many historical records on-line you will need to use chargeable
websites so please be prepared for this. Tutor: Jane Taubman
OCT
Family History Research Day – Using Your Own Laptop
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Stumpwork Garland
Dinner Friday 16 – Lunch Sunday 18 October
Fees (£): s 378 t 326 l 356 n 304 H 304 u 204 : 65
Raised Stumpwork embroidery lends itself beautifully to flower garlands
and swags. Fill your chosen design with your favourite flowers, some of
which can be embroidered onto the background fabric, and others can
be worked separately and added to your piece to give a three
dimensional look. Inspiration and ideas will be given on the course,
which is suitable for all abilities. Tutor: Annette Bolton
Finnish Art & Architecture
Dinner Friday 16 – Lunch Sunday 18 October
Fees (£): s 378 t 326 l 356 n 304 H 304 u 204 : 65
Finland punches well above its weight in architecture. The functional
and pragmatic clarity of Finnish design is found in its buildings, perhaps
because of the restraints of harsh climate and materials limited until
recently to wood and granite. We see this in farms, parish churches,
castles and the classical elegance of Helsinki. Of the greatest Finnish
architect, one critic wrote: "Finland has more great architects of the
status of Aalto, in proportion to population, than any other country".
All-comers welcome. Tutor: Mark Powell
Bobbin Lacemaking - British & European
Dinner Friday 16 – Lunch Monday 19 October
Fees (£): s 534 t 453 l 502 n 420 H 420 u 270
This is a practical course for all abilities of lacemakers from those who
have a knowledge of only the basic stitches to those who wish to study
advanced techniques in the British and European laces. Many of the
continental laces are taught with the aid of a colour-coded diagram to
help students continue their work at home. Time will be given to relating
threads to patterns and finishing and mounting lace. A reduced fee is
available for those wishing to attend this course until lunchtime on the
Sunday only – for details please contact the Bookings Office or see our
website. Tutor: Patricia Bury
OCT
32
Time’s Winged Chariot: A Creative Writing Day
Saturday 17 October
Fee: £50
From time immemorial human beings have had to create a time
structure to live by: firstly using the rhythm of the seasons and the
natural world, then inventing more sophisticated ways for telling the
time. From water clocks to the modern i-watch, each generation has
become more and more accurate. However, there is an emotional and
psychological dimension to time in our lives which we shall also explore
during a creative writing day. All-comers welcome.
Tutor: Elizabeth Rapp
News from the Fronts: October 1915 –
Autumn Battles and the Balkans
Saturday 17 October
Fee: £50 (Book five of Mike Shaw’s day courses in this programme
at the same time and save £4 on each)
On 5 October the Western Allies landed forces in Salonika under
confusing political circumstances. Coincidentally an Austro-German
invasion of Serbia began across the Danube to the north. On the
Western Front the French offensives in Artois and Champagne were
drawing to a close as was the inconclusive Battle of Loos. In the east
Russian counter-offensives had stabilised the front on an alignment
from Vilna to Tarnopol. How these events inter-related will be considered
in detail. Tutor: Mike Shaw
Understanding Your Camera
Saturday 17 October
Fee: £53
Spend a day getting to grips with your camera and discovering what it
can and cannot do. Get familiar with the controls, where to find them,
and how to use them. Each control is clearly explained with the aid of a
visual presentation and backed up with hands on practice using your
own camera. Most controls found on a typical compact camera are
covered. By the end of the day you should have a much better
understanding of your camera and how best to use it. If you have a
DSLR camera we suggest attending the ‘Getting to know your DSLR
Camera’ course that Nigel is running in November.
Tutor: Nigel Troake
[email protected]
www.dillington.com
Piano Recital with Tom Poster
Papermaking with Textiles
Sunday 18 October 2.30pm
Tickets £16 (under 18s £8)
Pre-booked lunches available at £17
Tom Poster is internationally recognised as a pianist of outstanding
artistry and versatility and is equally in demand as a soloist and chamber
musician. His recital will include Schumann’s Waldszenen, Opus 82,
Chopin’s Ballade No. 3 and Ravel’s La Valse, amongst others.
This concert is sponsored by a Patron of Dillington
Tea Monday 26 – Lunch Thursday 29 October
Fees (£): s 577 t 499 l 544 n 466 H 466 u 316
This course is designed for people who love textiles and want to expand
into new areas. You will learn how cotton, linen, hessian, and silk can be
recycled to make paper. The papers that you produce will be suitable for
hand and machine embroidery, as well as for sewing and construction
projects at home. Intensive, fun, and creative, this course is a must for
people who thrive on textiles and the versatility of the material.
All-comers welcome. Tutor: Jonathan Korejko
Botanical Illustration
Tea Monday 26 – Lunch Thursday 29 October
Fees (£): s 567 t 489 l 534 n 456 H 456 u 306
Botanical Illustration is precise detailed work, a combination of art and
science. This studio based watercolour course is for all ability levels; no
experience of art or botany is required, just commitment. We aim to
enjoy working in an atmosphere of relaxed industry. Students will work
at their own pace on the subject of their choice. The course will cover
the use of basic materials and methods for beginners and will offer
professional advice to advanced students. The emphasis will be on
individual development. All-comers welcome. Tutor: Susan Hillier
Meet Me on the Cloud
Tuesday 27 October
Fees: £50
Do you feel that you would like to keep up with family events and share
your news online but are daunted by how to start using social media,
and nervous of who’s out there? Keep up to date with friends and family,
news, research, reviews and more; social media is more than just a
gossip box! We will have a fun day in a friendly and supportive
environment, exploring email, Facebook, Skype and twitter, as well as
other areas of interest which can include Pinterest, Dropbox, Tumblr and
blogs. During the day we will be working on PCs but everything that is
covered will work on a laptop, Android or Windows smart phones or
iphones/ipads. You will leave this flexible day course with confidence,
working accounts, experience and understanding of how to use social
media. All-comers welcome. Tutor: Siobhan Allen
OCT
Bookings & Enquiries 01460 258613
Delighful
Delightful
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Not About Heroes: Stephen MacDonald
Tuesday 27 October
Fee: £50
In August 1917 a meeting took place at Craiglockhart War Hospital
between Wilfred Owen and Siegfried Sassoon. The relationship that
developed from this first meeting was to be highly significant for both
men – Sassoon would survive World War One but Owen would not.
Stephen MacDonald draws on biographical material, letters and poetry to
dramatise their friendship. This course will discuss the play and how
MacDonald uses his source material as a dramatic narrative. All-comers
welcome. Tutor: Trudy Hillier
More Ideas for iPad Art
Wednesday 28 October
Fee: £50
The iPad is a versatile and powerful addition to the artist's kit box which
can either enhance your existing practice or produce valid works of art in
its own right. Unfortunately, the plethora of apps and numerous
functions available can make the drawing experience unintuitive and
bewildering. This one day course clears away the clutter and enables you
to visualise and develop your ideas quickly and easily. You will also learn
how to create more complex works and incorporate photographs into
your digital drawings. Ideal for beginners as well as anyone who needs a
refresher. Your own iPad loaded with Brushes Redux or Brushes XP is
required. Tutor: David Chandler
Friday Friends Talk: Photographic Odyssey - Shackleton’s
Endurance Expedition Captured on Camera with Mark Cottle
OCT
34
Friday 30 October 1.00pm
£22 (includes three course lunch with coffee and 50 minute talk)
On Ernest Shackleton’s third Antarctic expedition in 1914, his ship, the
Endurance, was trapped and eventually crushed in the pack ice. After
camping for five months on the ice, Shackleton’s men rowed to the
remote Elephant Island. From there, Shackleton sailed for help to South
Georgia over 800 miles away. Over three months later he returned to
rescue the crew of the Endurance. Frank Hurley, one of the great
photographers of the 20th century, was the expedition’s official
photographer. His photographs are a visual narrative of an epic journey
which capture with great artistry new and amazing landscapes within
which a remarkable human drama is played out. The aim of the lecture
is to capture Hurley’s achievements as a photographer of the Antarctic in
the first flush of human contact when it was still essentially terra
incognita.
Bookings & Enquiries 01460 258613
[email protected]
www.dillington.com
Monarchs and Ministers
Intermediate Acoustic Guitar Day
Dinner Friday 30 October – Lunch Sunday 1 November
Fees (£): s 394 t 342 l 372 n 320 H 320 u 220
From Cardinal Wolsey and Thomas Cromwell under Henry VIII to William
Cecil, Lord Burleigh and his son Robert under Elizabeth I, first ministers
of the crown played a prominent if not decisive role in Tudor politics at
the very top. In a period of great change and uncertainty, they were
pivotal figures and some, like Thomas Cromwell, remain controversial
figures to this day. The course will follow their careers and look at their
relationships with their respective rulers and assess their achievements
and impact on what we see as the Tudor Age. Tutor: Mark Cottle
Saturday 31 October
Fee: £55
This course gives acoustic guitar players the encouragement to explore
more challenging material and techniques using a wide range of musical
genres. Add blues to your Bach? Or Bach to your blues? Then join the
many who have enjoyed playing and learning in a relaxed atmosphere.
Our comprehensive study pack contains material in standard notation
and TAB. Tutor: Al Summers and Ray Bradfield
‘The Time-Torn Man’ – The Poetry of Thomas Hardy
Dinner Friday 30 October – Lunch Sunday 1 November
Fees (£) s 378 t 326 l 356 n 304 H 304 u 204
Poetry was always Hardy’s first love. Born in 1840 in Dorset, he grew up
during a period of rapid social and economic change. His poetry owes
much to his native Wesex, the ballad tradition and his own musical
heritage. It was not until 1898, however, having secured a reputation as
a novelist and short story writer, that his first collection Wessex Poems
was published. His prolific output of almost a thousand poems, many
written after the death of his first wife, contributed to Hardy’s status as
one of the most important poets of our time. With reference to Claire
Tomalin’s acclaimed biography, we will disucss some of his best loved
work and discover a narrative for the emotional rhythms of his life. Allcomers welcome. Tutor: Joan Wiles
Gifts for Christmas: Christmas Stockings & Mantle Covers
Kick Start your German
Saturday 31 October
Fee: £50
Having some knowledge and understanding of a language is extremely
useful when on holiday, but not just then. By immersing yourself in the
German language during this day, you will get a sound introduction to
typical pronunciation, essential vocabulary, basic grammar and simple
conversation. By the end of the day, armed with these basic
foundations, you will have more than a little confidence to try
out your new language skills elsewhere. All-comers welcome.
Tutor: Birgit Piegeler-Hughes
Friday Friends Talk: Ariadne Into Music:
Picking Up the Thread with Roderick Swanston
Friday 6 November 1.00pm
£22 (includes three course lunch with coffee and 50 minute talk)
During his talk Roderick Swanston will look at several ways that
composers have treated the phases of Ariadne's life and fate into
operas, cantatas and other kinds of compositions.
NOV
Saturday 31 October
Fee: £52
A festive day for people who love to sew, making a Christmas stocking
which can be personalised for a family member, or as a gift for a friend
filled with goodies, followed by a traditional mantle cover for the
mantelpiece. Both items can be co-ordinated to fit in with a colour
scheme in the room where they will be used. Basic sewing skills
required. Tutor: Jenny Harrison
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Stravinsky Between The Wars
The Desert Mothers and Fathers
Dinner Friday 6 – Lunch Sunday 8 November
Fees (£) s 378 t 326 l 356 n 304 H 304 u 204
In 1920 Stravinsky responded to different pressures, musical, cultural
and aesthetic, and moved away from the resplendence of his early
ballets to develop a more economical, sometimes satirical style. He
wanted to move from the artist-hero to the artist-craftsman. Critics have
dubbed this period 'neo-classical' but this is an oversimplification and
distortion. This course will examine the wonderful range of music
between the Symphonies of Wind Instruments and the Symphony in
Three Movements, by way of the ballet Apollo and the 'cantata' Oedipus
Rex. The course will also compare Stravinsky's allusions to past music
with that of such varied composers as Hindemith, Shostakovich and
Vaughan Williams. The course will thus be an examination through
Stravinsky's journey of some major cultural shifts in the first half of the
twentieth century. All-comers welcome.
Tutor: Roderick Swanston
Saturday 7 November
Fee: £50
From the fourth century onwards, men and women went out into the
deserts of the Near East, in search of solitude. St Antony was considered
the first desert hermit; we will examine his ‘Life’, and the ‘Sayings of the
Desert Fathers’. We will also look at early writings by St Ephrem, and
those of Symeon the New Theologian. Using slides of the Sinai desert,
we will explore how the ancient Jews trekked through the desert, and
how early Christians saw themselves as following in their footsteps.
Tutor: Sister Elizabeth Rees
‘Here There Be Dragons’ – A Weekend Wilderness Course
Dinner Friday 6 – Lunch Sunday 8 November
Fees (£) s 378 t 326 l 356 n 304 H 304 u 204
This Wilderness weekend course will look at definitions of Wilderness,
early explorers, the landscapes and wildlife from some of the most
remote and fragile places left on our planet, and how we protect them
for the future. With stunning photography, amazing facts and
entertaining anecdotes from the North Pole, Antartica, Tierra del Fuego,
Falkland Islands and South Georgia. A must for nature lovers and those
who care for our world. All-comers welcome. Tutor: Brian Anderson
Fantastic Watercolour
Dinner Friday 6 – Lunch Sunday 8 November
Fees (£) s 378 t 326 l 356 n 304 H 304 u 204
Watercolour is an ideal medium for imaginative adventures, for
improvising and creating intuitively. This course will provide you with an
opportunity to discover the excitement and intensity of this seductive
medium through a series of stimulating projects to fire up your
imagination. All-comers welcome. Tutor: David Cuthbert
An Introduction to Tai Chi
NOV
36
Saturday 7 November
Fee: £50
This day is aimed at those with little or no experience, and is a useful
introduction to the exercise before looking for regular sessions in your
own locality. The slow and controlled movements of Tai Chi assist many
people to maintain their mobility, flexibility & joint strength, as well as
their general health. The course is NOT suitable for those with impaired
mobility, who should consider the equivalent course in Chi Kung on 5
March, which is suitable for all levels of fitness. Tutor: Patrick Harries
Let's Create Christmas at Home
Saturday 7 November
Fee: £95 (includes materials)
Join us at Dillington for a festive, creative, fun day learning how to
transform your home with traditional, decorative designs. During the
day you will be making your own designs and also enjoying lots of ideas
from our enthusiastic and flamboyant tutor. You will be provided with all
the materials you will need to complete a door wreath, a Christmas swag
and an advent table centre piece. There will be a selection of Christmas
goodies to purchase on the day. All-comers welcome. Please bring with
you a pair of secateurs and a box to take designs home in.
Tutor: Angie Blackwell
Venice Carnevale with Brian Anderson
Sunday 8 November 2.30pm
Tickets £12 including tea and cake
Pre-booked lunches available at £17
In the middle ages Venice, or La Serenissima, was one of the most
exciting, powerful and wealthy European cities, the centre of trading
with the East with total naval dominance of its trading routes. Since
1162, the Venice Carnevale has been a time of wild excitement and
celebrations usually in February or March, before the period of Lent.
Join photographer, adventurer and Dillington tutor Brian Anderson,
who reveals through his images the history, myths and art of Venice,
the costumes and masks of the Carnevale, all set against the city’s
stunning architectural backdrop.
[email protected]
www.dillington.com
Friday Friends Talk – Church Crawling Around England
with Philip Wilkinson
Is Ornament Crime? The Story of Architectural
Ornament in Britain
Friday 13 November – 1.00pm
£22 (includes three course lunch with coffee and 50 minute talk)
Philip Wilkinson has been visiting England’s parish churches – an
activity that John Betjeman described as ‘church-crawling’ – since he
was a teenager. Attracted at first by a fascination with their architecture,
he has come to love their history, atmosphere, and eccentricities. He
has discovered the most bizarre things tucked away in aisles and side
chapels – curious bits of ironmongery, musical instruments, a fire
engine and a ducking stool. This talk explores the fascinating and
surprising stories behind many of Philip's finds, and shows how for
centuries churches have been used for much more than worship.
Dinner Friday 13 – Lunch Sunday 15 November
Fees (£) s 378 t 326 l 356 n 304 H 304 u 204
‘Ornament is crime’, said the pioneer modernist architect Adolf Loos in
1910. In making this pronouncement, he was setting a trend for modern
architecture and turning his back on centuries of decorative art, craft
and tradition. This course looks at that tradtition: the rich and varied
history of architectural ornament in Britain. It explores the skills of
masons, carvers, plasterers, painters and workers in a range of materials
from stucco to wrought iron. In exploring the fascinating world of
architectural ornament, you will examine some of Britain’s most famous
buidlings, from Lincoln Cathedral to Manchester Town Hall, while also
looking at little known parish churches and smaller houses – all of them
providing visual revelations. All-comers welcome.
Tutor: Philip Wilkinson
DAY COURSES
Bridge: Five Card Puppet Stayman & Unassuming Cue Bids
Registration for most courses takes place from
9.00am and the first session usually begins at
9.45am. Courses normally end at 4.00pm with
tea and cake. The fee covers not only tuition, but
also a three-course lunch, refreshments and any
field trip and entrance fees (if applicable), unless
stated otherwise.
Please note that for out and about type courses
a packed lunch will normally be provided.
Dinner Friday 13 – Lunch Sunday 15 November
Fees (£) s 378 t 326 l 356 n 304 H 304 u 204
During this weekend we will look at two systems and techniques, which
will help improve your game. The 5-card Puppet Stayman is a very
useful system to use when responding to partners 2NT opener, which
ensures that the strong hand plays most of the contracts. With
Unassuming Cue Bids, your partner has overcalled but you’ve no idea
how strong the overcall is. It could be 8 High Card Points with a rather
motley suit or it could be 15 High Card Points with a solid suit. How do
we find out? Bid to the level of the fit? Lend partner a King? The
Unassuming Cue Bid helps to find out what your partner really has and
where the final contract should lie, leaving all other bids to have preemptive values, genuine strength in other suits etc. Come alone or with
a partner and enjoy learning some new skills which will enhance your
game. Tutor: Titch Glenday
Julius Caesar and the First Emperors of Rome
Dinner Friday 13 – Lunch Sunday 15 November
Fees (£) s 378 t 326 l 356 n 304 H 304 u 204
Suetonius’ entertaining account of the first emperors of Rome provides
the basis for the course, which will look at the lives of Julius Caesar, his
heir Augustus, the first emperor and his successors, down to Nero.
Whilst Suetonius is concerned mostly with affairs in Rome, we will also
look at events elsewhere, such as Tiberius on Capri, and Nero’s eastern
projects.Tutor: Nick Griffiths
NOV
Bookings & Enquiries 01460 258613
Early Bird Bookings
For those courses marked
an early bird discount
of 10% will apply if booked by the end of September.
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The Genius of Korngold
Saturday 14 November
Fee: £50
Described by Mahler as ‘a genius’ and by Ernest Newman as ‘the new
Mozart’, Erich Korngold was the last of the ‘late Romantics’, composing
music of great melodic beauty, superbly orchestrated. We will focus
especially on his operas but will also explore the wide range of his other
works, including orchestral, instrumental and chamber music, as well as
his magnificent film scores. All-comers welcome.
Tutor: Andrew Borkowski
Willow Basketmaking
News from the Fronts: Late 1915 – The Shell Crisis and
Attendant Changes
Saturday 14 November
Fee: £50 (Book five of Mike Shaw’s day courses in this programme at
the same time and save £4 on each)
The disappointing outcomes of offensives on the Western Front and
stalemate in Gallipoli initiated substantial changes in the French and
British higher management of the war effort. The ‘Shell Crisis’ would
ultimately lead to Coalition Government in Britain and the removal of
both Commanders-in-Chief. In Northern Italy the Italians started their
fourth offensive on the Izonso River and in Mesopotamia the British
renewed their advance on Baghdad. Tutor: Mike Shaw
Saturday 14 November
Fee: £66 (includes materials)
Come and spend an enjoyable day learning various weaves and
techniques to create your very own beautiful basket. We will be using
varieties of willow sourced from long established growers on the
Somerset levels – as well as some harvested from the tutor's own withy
beds. Somerset has a long established tradition of basket making - the
Levels near Taunton are home to the main willow growing and basket
making area in the country. This is a very ancient craft thought to
predate even pottery. It requires few tools and during the day you will
learn how to do weaves such as slewing, English randing and three rod
waling. Rebecca will guide you through the process of making your
basket from the selection and preparation of raw materials to the final
weaving of your border. Tutor: Rebecca Board
Wildlife & Natural History Painting in Gouache
NOV
38
Dinner Friday 20 – Lunch Sunday 22 November
Fees (£): s 378 t 326 l 356 n 304 H 304 u 204
This course is designed for beginners and upwards and will teach you
how to make a true representation of a wildlife subject whilst not
requiring any high level of drawing skill. From source material provided,
or from your own pictures, we will use the medium of gouache - an
opaque watercolour that is ideal for this subject – to create wonderful
lifelike pictures. Demonstrations and individual help will be the
foundation of this course which is open to all levels but please note that
the work will require a precise rather than a loose style of painting.
Tutor: Simon Williams
Bookings & Enquiries 01460 258613
[email protected]
www.dillington.com
Embroidered Crazy Patchwork
Looking Good Feeling Good
Dinner Friday 20 – Lunch Sunday 22 November
Fees (£): s 378 t 326 l 356 n 304 H 304 u 204
This is a decorative Victorian technique of random patchwork. It is
unlike normal patchwork as it focuses more on embellishing the seams
than the patchwork itself. A variety of hand embroidery stitches are
used to decorate the joins of the patches such as herringbone, cretan,
french knots and chain stitches. Embroidered motifs, lace, ribbon,
buttons and beads can also be used. When finished it can be used for
cushions, pin cushions, needle cases etc. All stitchers are welcome.
Tutor: Clare Clensy
Saturday 21 November
Fee: £55
Our style needs to evolve as we age so if it’s been a while since you took
an honest look at your colours and styles, this is the perfect opportunity
to spend a relaxing day gaining input into what suits you and why.
Realise your true potential with colours that suit your natural colouring
and clothing and accessories that flatter your personality. Make dressing
a joy not a chore and find the real you. This course is specifically
designed for women. All-comers welcome. Tutor: Jenny Webb
Getting to know your DSLR camera
Saturday 21 November
Fee: £53
Spend a day getting to grips with your DSLR camera and discovering
what it can and cannot do. Get familiar with the controls, where to find
them, and how to use them. Each control is clearly explained with the
aid of a visual presentation and backed up with hands on practice using
your own camera. Most controls found on a typical DSLR camera are
covered. By the end of the day you should have a much better
understanding of your camera and how best to use it. If you do not have
a DSLR camera we suggest attending the ‘Understanding your Camera’
course that Nigel is running in October. Tutor: Nigel Troake
Concert with the Chamber Ensemble of London
We Will Remember – A World War 1 concert
Saturday 21 November
Fee: £50
This study day looks at how Impressionism developed out of plein air
painting in early 19th century France and how technical advances in oil
paints, paint brushes, canvases and photography enabled artists to
move away from traditional subjects and start painting ‘modern life’ . We
trace the developments of Pissarro, Sisley, Bazille, Renoir and Monet
which lead to the First Impressionist Exhibition of 1874 and discuss
Manet’s contribution. We explore Monet’s paintings in and around Paris
and his love with the River Seine as well as the links to the literature of
the time. We see how Impressionism developed especially in Monet’s
later series paintings. We look closely at Impressionism in other
countries in particular America and Britain. Tutor: Julian Halsby
NOV
The History of Impressionism
Sunday 22 November 2.30pm
Tickets £17 (under 18s £8)
Pre-booked lunches available at £17
The Chamber Ensemble of London, directed by violinist Peter Fisher, will
present a programme featuring composers who fought in the Great War
– Vaughan Williams, Hindemith and Kreisler - as well as lighter music of
the period, by Ivor Novello and Irving Berlin. The programme will also
include a new suite by Clive Jenkins entitled ‘No Man’s Land’,
comprising music interspersed with readings from English, German,
French and Russian poets.
This concert is sponsored by a Patron of Dillington
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Bookbinding
The Music of Béla Bartók
Lunch Monday 23 – Lunch Friday 27 November
Fees (£): s 756 t 652 l 712 n 608 H 608 u 408
This course is for bookbinders at intermediate and advanced level, and
will take place in the studio, which is well equipped with tools and
equipment for general bookbinding. All students may work on their own
particular projects, but if they wish they can study the option of the
‘library-style’ binding (with leather spine, split boards and cloth-jointed
endpapers). While beginners can be accommodated, those with no
experience at all are encouraged to join the short course running in
January. Tutor: Angela Sutton
Dinner Friday 27 – Lunch Sunday 29 November
Fees (£): s 378 t 326 l 356 n 304 H 304 u 204
Our weekend will explore the music of Béla Bartók, one of the most
important composers of the 20th century. His style grew out of
romanticism and nationalism to embrace various new trends, and he
was also inspired by traditional songs and dances which he collected
and incorporated into his highly original scores. Moreover Bartók was a
talented pianist who created an important body of work for his own
instrument. Tutor: Terry Barfoot
Aquinas and Scholasticism
Friday Friends Talk – Origins of the English Parliament
with Tim Porter
Friday 27 November – 1.00pm
£22 (includes three course lunch with coffee and 50 minute talk)
Parliament is a product of the 13th century, when Europe was in the
mood for talking. But its roots reach down to more distant days; and it’s
these earlier traditions which may explain why England was the country
best suited to develop a strong and radical parliament more swiftly than
anywhere else. In this year of anniversaries (Magna Carta 800, Simon
De Montfort 750) it’s appropriate to try and understand these forces
which still shape our present. Tutor: Tim Porter
The Age of Richard II and Henry IV: Life-stories of
Splendour, Violence and Pathos
NOV
40
Dinner Friday 27 – Lunch Sunday 29 November
Fees (£): s 380 t 328 l 358 n 306 H 306 u 206
The anniversary of Agincourt has focused attention on those years when
England sleep-walked back into its tragic war with France. This course
aims to tell the story of how this happened, by focusing on the quarter
century leading up to 1415. It was an age of larger than life characters;
Owain Glyndwr the reluctant rebel, Henry Yevele the cathedral builder,
Geoffrey Chaucher, and of course King Richard II himself, that restless
visionary, that ultimate self- destructive ruler. It’s no wonder that Shakespeare
felt impelled to unpick the strands of this period, because it’s a saga of
theatrical dimensions, human histories, and gaudy splendour.
Tutor: Tim Porter
Dinner Friday 27 – Lunch Sunday 29 November
Fees (£): s 378 t 326 l 356 n 304 H 304 u 204
The learning of the classical past appeared to be lost as a result of the
barbarian invasions of the fifth century and the collapse of the Roman
Empire. However, in abbeys and monasteries and later in universities, all
over Europe, the new powerhouse of Christianity gradually incorporated
elements of the culture which seemed to have been lost. What emerged
was scholasticism; one of its greatest proponents was Aquinas. We shall
explore both. You have seen the cathedrals; now enter the world of the
mediaeval intellect. Tutor: Dr Leslie Hoose
Living under the Pharaohs: Daily Life in Ancient Egypt
Dinner Friday 27 – Lunch Sunday 29 November
Fees (£) s 378 t 326 l 356 n 304 H 304 u 204
The Ancient Egyptians are often regarded as a people obsessed with
death and the Afterlife because the evidence is so heavily biased
towards the funerary. We will leave aside the royal tombs and great
temples of Egypt, and will focus instead on the written records, art and
archaeology which shed light on Egyptian society including the role of
women, private religion, and activities of daily life. All-comers welcome.
Tutor: Lucia Gahlin
Bookings & Enquiries 01460 258613
[email protected]
Gregorian Chant
Saturday 28 November
Fee: £50
We have been chanting at Dillington for over six years and hundreds of
people have become delighted with the profound effect the ancient
music has upon them, not just listening to choirs of monks and nuns
singing in their monasteries, but singing it themselves. We will learn to
read the old notation and how to enjoy singing Masses, hymns and
canticles. We begin to understand why the music was written the way it
was and how perfectly the notes colour the words. Ann Evans was a
contemplative nun and studied the music, learning to lead the choir
and to conduct it. She loves the plaintive and moving sounds of the
music accompanying the Latin and Greek words. The chants are
musical prayers, and some have been sung for a thousand years.
They lift the heart and touch the soul. All are welcome, beginners
and experienced alike. Tutor: Ann Evans
www.dillington.com
Friday Friends Talk – The Amazing Originality of
Van Gogh with Wayne Bennett
Friday 4 December – 1.00pm
£22 (includes three course lunch with coffee and 50 minute talk)
Most of us are familiar with Van Gogh’s unique painting style to the
extent that we forget how revolutionary it was at the time. No wonder
he only sold one work during his lifetime! This richly illustrated talk will
demonstrate the point that will leave you in no doubt as to his
greatness.
Watercolour for Beginners
Saturday 28 November
Fee: £60
Have you always wanted to try painting with watercolours? Are you
recently retired or approaching retirement and looking for a new
challenge? Spend a day in the wonderful surroundings of Dillington and
discover an engrossing and rewarding pastime. During the day we will
look at materials, brushwork and paint application, colour and mixing,
putting it all together and having a go. Tutor: Clare DuVergier
No No No: Europe and Britain since the Second World War
joy!
NOV
Saturday 28 November
Fee: £50
Did Britain "miss the boat" on EU membership after the Second World
War? Why have relations with Britain's European partners often
descended into acrimony? This course explores the cultural political
and economic origins of the European Union and the barriers to
Britain's full engagement with the European project. The aim of the
course is to provide a background to the debates and discussions
surrounding the upcoming referendum on Britain's future membership.
Tutor: Richard Henderson
“An absolute joy!”
absolute
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The Georgians
Beginners Painting & Drawing in Any Medium
Dinner Friday 4 – Lunch Sunday 6 December
Fees (£) s 378 t 326 l 356 n 304 H 304 u 204
The Hanoverian succession of the British monarchy heralded a period of
great political, social and cultural change. Over the reign of five
monarchs, and despite ultimately losing the American colonies, Britain
expanded and consolidated its global reach through economic and
military power. In addition, the Georgian period established an enduring
sensibility in architecture, music and the visual arts which has not left
us. This weekend will explore a myriad of themes that will paint a vivid
picture of this most exciting and controversial epoch. All-comers
welcome. Tutor: Wayne Bennett
Dinner Friday 4 – Lunch Sunday 6 December
Fees (£) s 378 t 326 l 356 n 304 H 304 u 204
This relaxed and informative weekend offers beginners guidance in
whatever materials they wish to bring. Instruction in drawing and
practical handling of colour, along with demonstrations, will be helpful,
even to those with some experience. Bring objects or images you wish to
use as subjects, and, despite the season, the large windows in our
excellent modern studio even allow for ‘landscape subjects’! Optional
evening sessions include videos, slides or discussions. All-comers
welcome. Tutor: Stella Murray Whatley
Symbolism - A European Phenomenon
DEC
42
Dinner Friday 4 – Lunch Sunday 6 December
Fees (£) s 378 t 326 l 356 n 304 H 304 u 204
At the end of the nineteenth century, from Britain, to France and
Belgium through Germany and Eastern Europe to Russia, there was an
outpouring across the Arts whereby a reaction against naturalism and
realism started to gain ground. Symbolism paves the way for Modernism
and the numerous philosophies and manifestos, which would follow.
Through looking at Paintings, Sculptures, Illustrations, listening to music
and reading poems and extracts from both novels and philosophical
discourses, you will gain an overview and insight to this most important
and interesting phase of Western Culture. It reflects the political, spiritual
and economic changes affecting the whole of the Western world during
the last thirty years of the nineteenth and first twenty years of the
twentieth centuries. Tutor: Mike Hope
Dorset Families
Saturday 5 December
Fee: £50
This study day will look at the history of three very different families with
strong Dorset connections. Melbury, Sherborne Castle, Minterne and
Charbough are the homes of the Fox Strangway, Digby and Drax families.
You will look at each family in detail with their rise to prominence,
interesting personalities, fortunes made, titles lost and scandalous ladies
and gentlemen! You will also learn how each of the families have become
part of Dorset's history. Tutor: Jane Ferentzi-Sheppard
[email protected]
The Pioneers of English Ballet
Saturday 5 December
Fee: £50
Three great women pioneered ballet in Britain: Marie Rambert, Ninette
De Valois and Lilian Baylis. Before them, ballet was in a sorry state, yet
their vision created the great companies of today – English National
Ballet, the two Royal Ballet companies and Rambert Dance. This
amazing period, interrupted by two World Wars, is truly inspirational with
many remarkable people, including Markova, Dolin, Fonteyn, Tudor,
Helpmann and more. Tutor: Bridgett Vane
Jewels of Indian Architecture
Saturday 5 December
Fee: £50
The architecture of the Indian sub-continent is intricately bound to its
sweeping history and profound engagement with the rest of the world.
Hugely ambitious in scale, extravagant in presentation, often deeply
spiritual, the architecture of this vast country is as varied and engaging
as its people. This course will offer a brief survey of some of the most
exciting examples of Indian architecture from the late Middle Ages
through the Mughal period to the colonial era and the present day. The
course will invite discussion and observation as it visits both the wellknown and the more remote corners of architecture in this vibrant
country. Tutor: Trish Jones
Have Yourself a Merry Motown Christmas
Thursday 10 December
Fee: £50
Escape the Christmas crowds and come and sing some uplifting
Christmas soul! No more Silent Night or While Shepherd’s Watched; we’ll
be getting into the festive groove with Christmas songs by Motown’s
favourite artists including Smokey Robinson and Darlene Love. Suitable
for male and female voices and with no need to be able to read music
notation; if you want ‘Christmas with a twist’ – this is the singing
workshop for you! Tutor: Jo Sercombe
Charles I, Victim or Villain?
Dinner Friday 8 – Lunch Sunday 10 January
Fees (£) s 378 t 326 l 356 n 304 H 304 u 204
Charles has been much vilified, but he has also had his defenders. This
course will examine his record: from early quarrels with Parliament over
religion and taxation to the outbreak of civil war in 1642 and beyond.
Why did he perish in the “English Revolution” in 1649? And what have
historians made of him since? Tutor: Edward Towne
www.dillington.com
The Story of the Balearics:
The Cultural History of Mallorca, Menorca & Ibiza
Dinner Friday 8 – Lunch Sunday 10 January
Fees (£) s 378 t 326 l 356 n 304 H 304 u 204
The Balearics enjoy a rich and varied cultural and historical heritage.
Their visible history goes back over 3000 years; indeed, Spain's most
significant pre-historic buildings are to be found in the Balearics. They
were conquered by Phoenicians, Romans and, eventually, the Moors.
They played a vital part in the history of medieval Spain, the wars of the
17th and 18th centuries and finally, the Civil War. The Islands are visited
by well over one million tourists every year but few of them get to see the
glories of the history or landscapes. Join us for a weekend exploring the
REAL Balearics: the wonderful cities, the fascinating pre-history, the
landscapes, the music, art and literature. (Not to mention their great
sporting heroes!) Tutor: Chris Pollard
Demystifying Cryptic Crosswords
Dinner Friday 8 – Lunch Sunday 10 January
Fees (£): s 383 t 331 l 361 n 309 H 309 u 209
With an emphasis on fun and strictly non-competitive, this workshop is
for complete beginners and improvers. The starting assumption is that
you have no knowledge of cryptics whatever, but if you do, or if you
currently solve the Quick non-cryptic crossword, you will progress to the
fascinating wider world of the cryptic. You will learn the tricks of the
crossword trade including the “rules” for cryptic clues. Once learnt,
these can be applied to the daily puzzles appearing in nearly all
newspapers and enable solving of clues you may have thought
impenetrable. Whilst enjoying the delights and quirks of the English
language, we will work together solving cryptics from different sources,
occasionally delving into the humour, history and personalities of
crosswords. All-comers welcome. Tutor: Tim Moorey
Get to Know your Sewing Machine
Saturday 9 January
Fee: £50
If you have just recently bought a sewing machine or have never really
understood how to use all the stitches and feet that came with your
sewing machine, then this course is for you. Suitable for students new to
sewing or just wanting to get the best from a machine that perhaps has
not been used for a while, gain the confidence to use the machine to its
full potential. Learn the art of free machine embroidery, a fun and
creative technique. All-comers welcome but please note you will need
basic sewing knowledge, including the ability to use your own sewing
machine, which you will need to bring with you. Tutor: Jenny Harrison
DEC
Bookings & Enquiries 01460 258613
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JAN
Law & Morality: A difficult relationship!
The Rise and Fall of the Romantic Ballet
Saturday 9 January
Fee: £50
How far can and should we expect the formal laws issued through our
legal system to reflect our moral views and, conversely, to what extent do
we expect our moral views to be backed up by formal law? This is a
tricky question which eminent philosophers and lawyers have been
struggling with for years. We shall begin the day by considering some of
their conflicting views on the subject which will enable each of us to
focus on what our own views are. We will then look at several important
areas of our law which are developing rapidly to take account of modern
needs and advances and consider whether they are adequately
reflecting our moral stances or, indeed, whether they are interfering too
much in matters which may be better left solely to our individual
consciences. This will be a general interest course, all-comers welcome.
Tutor: Sarah Izzett
Dinner Friday 15 – Lunch Sunday 17 January
Fees (£): s 378 t 326 l 356 n 304 H 304 u 204
This course charts the rise of the Romantic Ballet, from La Sylphide in
1832, through Giselle in 1841, to its last great flowering with Coppélia
(1870) - all conceived during a volatile time in the history of Europe, and
France in particular. These enduring ballets, still in the repertory of the
major companies worldwide, occupy a central place in the history of the
art-form. Tutor: Bridgett Vane
Magical Transformation and Alchemy in the History of Art
Saturday 9 January
Fee: £50
This course will explore the enduring nature of philosophical and
scientific ideas surrounding alchemy and the transmutation of base
material into gold. All of this will be viewed in the light of examples from
the history of art, focusing on Renaissance figures such as Piero di
Cosimo and Albrecht Durer, and also considering the advances in
science and philosophy in the Age of Enlightenment. This course is
suitable for anyone with an interest in art history and the ways in which
the concept of transformation is central to writers and artists grappling
with the observation of profound changes within human experience.
Tutor: Trish Jones
Bookbinding: Case-Binding
Dinner Friday 15 – Lunch Sunday 17 January
Fees (£): s 378 t 326 l 356 n 304 H 304 u 204
This course is intended for beginners in bookbinding to the more
experienced. Beginners will be introduced to basic theory and pamphlet
bindings while the more experienced can bring their own project for a
case binding or we can make a blank book case binding.
Tutor: Sarah Jarrett-Kerr
Early Bird Bookings
For those courses marked
an early bird discount
of 10% will apply if booked by the end of September.
44
The Post Pre-Raphaelites
Dinner Friday 15 – Lunch Sunday 17 January
Fees (£): s 378 t 326 l 356 n 304 H 304 u 204
The seven original members of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood were
followed by a group of painters, influential in their own right, who carried
forward and built upon the artistic style of the Brotherhood. In this
course we will study in detail the lives and works of some of these artists,
including Edward Burne-Jones, J.W. Waterhouse and Eleanor FortescueBrickdale, a group of artists the tutor has termed the 'Post PreRaphaelites', examining their place in the context of artistic and social
developments in the late Victorian era. All-comers welcome.
Tutor: Dr Peter Bryden
News from the Fronts: An audit of 1915
and German plans for the Western Front
Saturday 16 January
Fee: £50 (Book five of Mike Shaw’s day courses in this programme at
the same time and save £4 on each)
By any measure 1915 had been a truly awful year for the Entente
Powers. With the exception of the War at Sea, the Central Powers
everywhere appeared dominant: in the air over the Western Front, in
Belarus and the Ukraine, in the Balkans and latterly in Mesopotamia at
Ctesiphon. With evacuation of Gallipoli complete, the Allies considered
their plans for 1916. Meanwhile the Germans were redeploying forces
for a large-scale attack at a critical point on the Western Front.
The blow would fall at Verdun. Tutor: Mike Shaw
[email protected]
www.dillington.com
Pop Goes the Weasel
Watercolour for Improvers
Saturday 16 January
Fee: £50
This study day on the origins of popular nursery rhymes explores the
conflicts rampant in their contemporary society when it was too
dangerous to be openly critical of the status quo. Heretics and witches
were burned at the stake; and those writing subversive literature fled
into exile. Most young children learn nonsense rhymes with catchy
tunes never realising the political and religious implications hidden
within these cheerful jingles. Come and explore them for yourself!
Tutor: Elizabeth Rapp
Dinner Friday 22 – Lunch Sunday 24 January
Fees (£) s 378 t 326 l 356 n 304 H 304 u 204
A course for those with some basic knowledge of pigment names and
simple mixes and washes. We will focus on colour mixing avoiding
muddy messes, retaining transparency and understanding temperature
bias and tone. This course will give you a chance to improve,
experiment, and simply have fun in the glorious surroundings of
Dillington House. Please be aware that a good standard of equipment is
paramount. An equipment list will be provided.
Tutor: Clare DuVergier
Ukulele Workshop – Beyond Beginners
Bridge: Intermediate Level Defence
Friday 22 January
Fee: £50
Got a Ukulele? Know a few chords? Perhaps you've been on a
beginner’s workshop or have been quietly teaching yourself at home?
Or maybe that uke has been gathering dust in the corner? This
workshop is ideal for anyone who already owns a ukulele and can strum
a few chords. During the workshop you will learn more chords, practice
chord transitions, be introduced to different strumming techniques and
begin to build a repertoire of songs. In a friendly and supportive
environment, you will soon be getting to new levels with your playing
and enjoying the pleasures of communal music making. You will go
away with new songs to play and plenty of inspiration to take you past
the beginner’s level...and beyond! All you need is your own ukulele.
Tutor: Sally Vaughan
Dinner Friday 22 – Lunch Sunday 24 January
Fees (£) s 378 t 326 l 356 n 304 H 304 u 204
Defence is 50% of the game of bridge. Clues come from the bidding,
the lead card, partner's card, from counting points, suits and trumps.
There is never a dull moment while defending. On this course you will
learn some tips to improve your defence. Come alone or with a partner
and try a bit of detective work in a relaxed and enjoyable ambience. Our
tutor, Titch Glenday, focusses on having fun and stimulation while
improving your bridge skills. Tutor: Titch Glenday
From the Land of the Rising Sun:
An Introduction to Japanese Literature
Dinner Friday 22 – Lunch Sunday 24 January
Fees (£) s 378 t 326 l 356 n 304 H 304 u 204
Explore the strange and beautiful world of Japanese literature from the
seventeenth century to the present. Follow the footsteps of a medieval
travelling poet, delve into the world of the Tokyo pleasure district, view
Hiroshima through the eyes of survivors after the atomic bombing and
interpret dreams to shine a light on Japense history and culture. This
workshop draws on art, photography, history and film clips to explore
poems, journals, short stories and novel extracts from eight of Japan’s
most important writers. You will discover how nature, China and the
West have shaped the literature of the Land of the Rising Sun. All texts
will be provided in English. All-comers welcome. Tutor: Woody River
JAN
Bookings & Enquiries 01460 258613
The Scottish Colourists
Saturday 23 January
Fee: £50
The term ‘Scottish Colourists’ refers to four painters; S. J. Peploe,
J. D. Fergusson, G. L. Hunter and F. C. B. Cadell of the late C19th.
By combining their Scottish artistic heritage with contemporary French
art styles, in a new, distinctive and highly individual way, the Scottish
Colourists forged a new, colourful and vibrant description of the world
around them. All-comers welcome. Tutor: Jennifer Spiers
Scott Joplin & The Ragtime Professors
Saturday 23 January
Fee: £50
During this course we will explore the origins of ragtime and discover
what the term “classic ragtime”’ means and what gives the music its
“weird and intoxicating effect”. Through discussion and illustration at
the keyboard by the tutor, you will come to appreciate how it may be
performed and learn about the life and times of Scott Joplin and his
principal contemporaries. Come along and find out about ragtime’s
golden legacy. All-comers welcome. Tutor: Mike Denham
Early Bird Bookings
For those courses marked
an early bird discount
of 10% will apply if booked by the end of September.
45
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JAN
An Introduction to Celtic Christianity
Saturday 23 January
Fee: £50
We know little about the Celtic saints, since their lives were mostly
written long after their death. However, archaeology, inscriptions and
early texts provide us with valuable clues. Through lectures, discussion
and slides, we will briefly explore Celtic Christianity in Ireland. We shall
then examine some early texts: the Life of Samson, a sermon of
Columbanus and some Celtic poetry. All-comers welcome.
Tutor: Sister Elizabeth Rees
‘Harlots, Rakes and Crashing China’ – an Accidental
Introduction to 18th Century Ceramics with Lars Tharp
Sunday 24 January 2.30pm
Tickets £12 including tea and cake
Pre-booked lunches available at £17
During this lecture Lars Tharp will explore the panoramas of Hogarth’s
detailed interiors, high life and low, and the lives of his players, both real
and fictional. You will catch the challenges and responses between
potters East and West and the domestic tustle of Pottery versus
Porcelain. Through his racy narratives – The Harlot, The Rake and
Marriage-à-la-Mode – Hogarth offers his own moral commentary on
the pursuit of Taste and Luxury. Prepare to blush!
:
Weekend Plus
You can extend your weekends by staying an extra night for a special
tariff of £65 subject to availability. This covers a light supper and
accommodation on Sunday night, and a full English breakfast on
Monday morning.
46
Chamber Music Weekend
with the Vogler String Quartet & Terry Barfoot
Dinner Friday 29 – Lunch Sunday 31 January
Fees (£): s 553 t 501 l 531 n 479 H 479 u 379 : 65
This weekend is one of the cultural highlights of the year, with live
performances in the intimate surroundings of the Hanning Room in the
House. Beneath the glittering crystal chandelier we will hear four
concerts by the renowned Vogler Quartet, who will be joined by the
clarinettist Richard Hosford for a performance of Brahms’s wonderful
Quintet, one of his greatest chamber works. The other featured
composers will be Haydn, Beethoven, Schubert, Mendelssohn, Smetana,
Ravel and Stravinsky. Musicologist Terry Barfoot will provide the context
for the performances with a series of illustrated lectures, insightful
introductions and programme notes.
The food will be exceptional and wine is included with your lunches
and evening meals. Whether you regard yourself as a musical novice
or something of an expert, this will be a weekend to enjoy for all.
Everyone is welcome. Weekend Plus is available.
Concert with the Vogler Quartet
& Richard Hosford (clarinet)
Sunday 31 January 2.30pm
Tickets £16 (under 18s £8)
Pre-booked lunches available at £17
Richard Hosford (clarinet) has a busy
The internationally renowned Vogler Quartet perform
with
career
botha
as programme
a soloist and as chamber
musician, as well as being Principal
of glorious music: Haydn’s celebrated ‘Emperor’ String
Quartet
Clarinet of the BBC Symphony Orchestra.
As a member
of the Chamber
Orchestra of
Opus 76 No. 3 and Stravinsky’s Three Pieces for String
Quartet
precede
Europe for more than twenty years
one of Brahms’s greatest chamber works, his Clarinet
in B performing
minor, as a
RichardQuintet
toured the world,
soloist with them in the USA, Japan, Hong
Opus 115, with the eminent British clarinettist Richard
Hosford.
Kong, Italy, Germany, Switzerland and the
This concert is sponsored by a Group of Dillington Friends.
[email protected]
Friday Friends Talk – Millennium Stained
Glass Windows with Mike Hope
www.dillington.com
JAN
Bookings & Enquiries 01460 258613
Friday 5 February – 1.00pm
£22 (includes three course lunch with coffee
and 50 minute talk)
It is perhaps the least known aspect of the
millennial celebrations, that the Church of England now plays host to the
largest single outpouring of newly commissioned stained glass windows
for probably the best part of a century. Not since the demand for the
installation of memorial windows after the First World War, have so many
windows been proposed, commissioned and placed into churches up
and down the land. As a largely non-religious/celebratory act they have
no precedent. This talk will introduce you to a representative range of
these windows, which display an enormously wide range of styles and
techniques.
Stained Glass in Britain: 1939 - Present Day
Dinner Friday 5 – Lunch Sunday 7 February
Fees (£): s 392 t 340 l 370 n 318 H 218 u 218
The end of World War Two marked a moment of reflection and
opportunity as around the world the lengthy process of replacement,
renewal and restoration took place. The opportunity in Britain for the
repair of war damaged windows would of necessity take a long time and
also reflect the changes in artistic/stylistic and technical advances which
were sweeping the world. This period sees the rise of new names such
as Reyntiens, Piper, Hone, Forsyth, Lee, New, Clark, Bossanyi, and the
demise and death of many individuals (Easton, Travers, Comper) and
firms, some of which had survived almost unchanged since Victorian
times. Alongside new artistic directions, the introduction of revolutionary
methods and techniques would encourage a wave of new interest in
stained glass. It is fascinating to also reflect upon the surge in windows
installed in churches up and down the land to mark the Millennium.
Tutor: Mike Hope
47
CONFERENCES AT DILLINGTON
HOUSE
Dillington is ideally equipped as an inspirational venue
to hold training events, meetings or residential
conferences.
We have a range of 13 meeting rooms suitable for uses
spanning from 1:1 meetings to conferences for 160
delegates. Our central location within the South West
makes Dillington the natural choice for regional events
with convenient connections to the A303 and M5 road
networks.
"First time we have used Dillington,
loved every second of it: a great
venue, fab staff, went the extra
mile all the time."
Alan Peat - Alan Peat Ltd
We offer ample free parking, free wifi internet access
and delicious food. Our aim is to create a motivating
atmosphere by making your delegates feel valued and
well cared for.
The majority of our business is with regular customers
and a substantial proportion of our new business wins
derive from their recommendations.
"It's nice to be able to take delegates off
site to somewhere that is so professionally
run and presented. I always get feedback
on the great quality of food and this visit
was no different."
Greg Turvey - Screwfix Ltd
"A special location, expertly managed
and very good value for money."
Michael Fernando Yeovil District Hospital
copyright WILL PRYCE
48
To learn more about Dillington’s conference facilities
or to make an enquiry, please contact:
Robin Kyd, Conference Manager
e [email protected]
t 01460 258608
"Definitely likely to recommend you
to others and to hold future events
at your venue."
Laura Sturgess – Clarks International
[email protected]
www.dillington.com
The Architecture of Tuscany’s City States
Gerald Finzi - English Composer and more
Dinner Friday 5 – Lunch Sunday 7 February
Fees (£) s 378 t 326 l 356 n 304 H 304 u 204
The world renown of Florence has made it easy to forget the other former
city states of Tuscany. We make an overview of six of these: redbrick
Siena on its hills, Lucca with massive, intact, fortifications, Prato the
textile town with its green marble, Pistoia, which has the finest original
marketplace, Pisa of the Campo Santo, and Florence itself. We examine
their rise and fall and the glorious architecture with which they competed
for fame. Tutor: Mark Powell
Saturday 6 February
Fee: £50
Suitable for musicians and listeners alike, this exploration of Gerald Finzi
and his music will include insights from a composer’s perspective from
course tutor Al Summers. Finzi is perhaps one of the most under-rated of
twentieth century British composers. A modest man, many of his other
attributes are too little known. The day will therefore include not only
some of his most celebrated pieces, but also some gorgeous music that
is not heard often enough – and aspects of his life and character that will
please his fans and fascinate those new to him. Tutor: Al Summers
Creative Watercolour Techniques
Dinner Friday 5 – Lunch Sunday 7 February
Fees (£) s 378 t 326 l 356 n 304 H 304 u 204
An opportunity to develop your watercolour paintings by experimenting
with a variety of techniques for exciting wet into wet techniques. We will
explore the use of glycerine, cling film and granulation medium, taking
inspiration from nature. Shari will bring along a wealth of photographic
reference material to use as a starting point for ideas. The paintings
created will be your own individual compositions led by the flow of paint
and your imagination. Tutor: Shari Hills
FEB
Bookings & Enquiries 01460 258613
Revisit Your Latin
Saturday 6 February
Fee: £50
Revive your interest in a language you learnt either long ago or more
recently and gain an insight into the Roman way of life through the eyes
of the famous first century BC poet Horace (translations will be
provided). All-comers welcome. Tutor: Roger Priest
An Introduction to Family History
Saturday 6 February
Fee: £50
This lecture based course, suitable for beginners and those who have
started researching but now need help, will introduce you to the main
sources that are available for family history research, with particular
emphasis on the internet. You will be shown the types of records
available for example, births, marriages and deaths through civil
registration records (1837-2005) and census returns (1841-1911). By
the end of the day you will have gained the knowledge and confidence to
go away and start your own research. If you have already started your
own research and have hit a brick wall and can’t move backwards then
you are welcome to bring it with you. Please note this is not a hands-on
day and you will not be using computers. Tutor: Jane Taubman
Flower Arranging for Beginners
Saturday 6 February
Fee: £95 (includes materials)
Spend a fun day learning how to create easy flower arrangements made
from seasonal flowers and foliage. Specifically designed for beginners the
aim of the day is to have fun and learn lots of hints and tips. You will be
provided with all the materials you will need to create three designs; a
hand tied bouquet, a table centre piece and a window arrangement. Allcomers welcome. Please bring with you a pair of secateurs and a box to
take designs home in. Tutor: Angie Blackwell
49
Events at Dillington House
Somerset’s most magnificent venue
Bespoke and exclusively yours
Dillington House is
the perfect setting for
weddings as well as
any social function,
such as wedding
anniversaries,
birthday celebrations,
family reunions or Christmas parties.
We can easily seat any number from
20 up to 150, for lunch or evening
events.
50
We are licensed for civil ceremonies
in our romantic Orangery, the elegant
Hanning Room and in our theatre in
the magnificent Mews building. With
many years experience behind us, our
dedicated wedding team is on hand to
help you plan every aspect of your
wedding day, making sure that you and
your guests have the most perfect day.
Exclusively yours with a choice of
elegant reception rooms, Dillington
offers that real ‘Country House’
experience. At the end of your
celebration, we can accommodate
up to 78 guests in bedrooms that
range from the traditional to the
contemporary, from the elegantly
spacious to the bijou.
For information or to book a viewing,
please contact:Kirsty Hughes
e. [email protected]
t. 01460 258648
www.weddingvenueinsomerset.com
[email protected]
www.dillington.com
Rush Basketmaking
Ukulele Workshop – Improvers Course
Thursday 11 and Friday 12 February
Fees: £132 (includes materials)
Woven rush items are still much in demand for use in homes today and
during this practical course we will be making baskets using scirpus
lacustris, the common bulrush, which is soft and pleasant to work with
and a lovely greeny gold colour when newly harvested. The rushes are
gathered in midsummer each year from the slow moving rivers and
streams where they grow wild. You will learn about the selection and
preparation of the raw materials, some essential weaves and techniques,
and should have a basket of your own creation to take away with you at
the end of the second day. Beginners are welcome.
Tutor: Rebecca Board
Saturday 13 February
Fee: £50
This one day course is ideal for anyone who has already started getting
to grips with their ukulele and knows a handful of chords but would like
to improve their technique and expand their repertoire. With a special
focus on strumming patterns and chord transitions this course promises
to build on the skills you have already developed. Tutor: Sally Vaughan
Introduction to Buddhism
Dinner Friday 12 – Lunch Sunday 14 Feburary
Fees (£) s 378 t 326 l 356 n 304 H 304 u 204
Who was the Buddha? How, and what, do we know of his forty years of
teaching in India in the 5th century BC? We will look at the basic
principles and practice common to all schools of Buddhism, from
precious human life and karma to meditation; at the discoveries of the
Sahibs in the 19th century; and at the new presence that Buddhism has
found in the West since then. Suitable for those of any or no faith.
Tutor: Hilary Armstrong
The Clash of Civilisation
Dinner Friday 12 – Lunch Sunday 14 February
Fees (£) s 378 t 326 l 356 n 304 H 304 u 204
At the end of the Cold War, many hoped and believed that the world
would make war no more. By 1996, however, the voice of one political
commentator, Samuel P Huntington, was already foretelling a future
dominated by the clash of two great forces, Islam and Western
Civilisation. His book has been admired as prophetic, and criticised on
numerous grounds. Unfortunately, as things stand, there is no way it is
irrelevant to our present circumstances. Tutor: Dr Leslie Hoose
FEB
Bookings & Enquiries 01460 258613
Ancient Egyptian Jewellery
Saturday 13 February
Fee: £50
Every museum in the world with a collection of ancient Egyptian
antiquities will display examples of ancient Egyptian jewellery. In this day
course, we will explore some of the most wonderful examples. Jewellery
found in the tomb of Tutankhamun is perhaps the best known, but we
will focus on examples found at archaeological sites throughout Egypt
from the Predynastic through to the end of the Pharaonic Period. We will
examine the range of jewellery types, the development of techniques
used by the ancient jewellers, and the variety of materials in which they
worked, including gold, silver, carnelian, turquoise and lapis lazuli. Allcomers welcome. Tutor: Lucia Gahlin
‘You Say Potato’ with David and Ben Crystal
Sunday 14 February 2.30pm
Tickets £12 including tea and cake
Pre-booked lunches available at £17
Where do regional accents come from? How do they affect our lives?
How are they changing? And why do people get so worked up about
them? Actor Ben Crystal and linguist David Crystal explore the
fascinating world of English accents that they describe in their new
book, 'You Say Potato'.
Build a Website and a Blog in a day
Saturday 13 February
Fee: £50
Do you have a lot to say, but no way of letting the world know? On this
course we will use a free website hosting site and a free blogging site to
create your own website and blog. We will discuss and plan how you
would use these sites to promote your company, share your passion or
hobby, or keep a family diary. All-comers welcome but some previous
computer experience would be advisable. Tutor: Siobhan Allen
51
s Sup ens sing occ t Sup ens dbl occ l Dbl ens sing occ n Dbl ens H Sing ens u Non res : Weekend Plus
FEB
The Secret War: Some Covert Operations of World War II
Embroidery with a Silver Sheen
Tea Monday 15 – Lunch Thursday 18 February
Fees (£):s 597 t 519 l 564 n 486 H 486 u 336
An introduction to some under-cover World War Two operations, starting
with the Enigma machine, whose ciphers were broken at Bletchley Park.
Intelligence from Bletchley was crucial in the Battle of the Atlantic, so UBoat operations will be described. The achievements of Bletchley Park,
and of the Special Operations Executive will also be studied.
Complementing the presentations will be hands-on codebreaking
workshops, operating a genuine Enigma machine and visiting the
Signals Museum at Blandford. Open to all - no previous knowledge
required. Tutor: Dr Mark Baldwin
Dinner Friday 19 – Lunch Sunday 21 February
Fees (£) s 378 t 326 l 356 n 304 H 304 u 204 : 65
This course focuses on hand embroidery projects, using stitches such
as stem stitch, french knots, long and short stitch, and incorporates a bit
of silver work to the design. The silverwork can be using metal threads,
such as pearl purl and jap, or simply silver stranded cotton and tiny
silver sequins. Participants will be working on either their own design,
or one supplied by the tutor. All stitchers are welcome.
Tutor: Clare Clensy
Schubert’s Final Years
Dinner Friday 19 – Lunch Sunday 21 February
Fees (£): s 394 t 342 l 372 n 320 H 320 u 220 : 65
(includes concert ticket)
This course will examine the last flowering of Schubert's remarkable
music in the final few years of his short life. It will look closely at such
works as the song-cycle Die Winterreise, the 'Great' C major symphony,
the last string quartet, the String Quintet in C and the final piano
sonatas. The course will also compare Schubert's development with
that of his contemporaries including the last works of Beethoven and
those of Spohr, Weber and many others. It will examine how far
Schubert is an exception to the compositional norm, or how far just one
of its most remarkable contributors. It will examine musical life in Vienna
in the post-Napoleonic Vienna of the day. All-comers welcome. This
course also includes a ticket for the Sunday afternoon concert with the
Sacconi Quartet. Tutor: Roderick Swanston
The History of The Arts in Britain
Dinner Friday 19 – Lunch Sunday 21 February
Fees (£) s 378 t 326 l 356 n 304 H 304 u 204 : 65
It is hard to imagine but most of our great artistic institutions are very
young indeed. Some of our most famous such as the Royal Ballet, the
Royal National Theatre and the Royal Shakespeare Company being
created only after the Second World War. This course will explore the
history of music, theatre, literature, publishing, the visual arts,
museums, cinema and broadcasting. It will examine the crucial role of
private business, personal philanthropy and artistic vision - plus the
involvement of successive governments - in ultimately creating one of
the most vibrant and economically important arts cultures in the world.
No prior knowledge will be assumed and everyone is welcome.
Tutor: Wayne Bennett
52
No Boundaries Acoustic Band Workshop Extra
Dinner Friday 19 – Lunch Monday 22 Feburary
Fees (£) s 556 t 478 l 523 n 445 H 445 u 295
This extended 'No Boundaries' acoustic band course is open to any
acoustic instrument player. We’ve successfully catered for every
combination so far, including fretted and bowed stringed instruments,
saxophones, clarinet, piano, flute and harmonica... what do you play?
With a good social atmosphere, exchanging ideas and learning from
each other, you will be encouraged to explore and improvise on wideranging material from Baroque to Blues via Folk and Jazz. Ear players,
clef and TAB readers welcome. Please advise your chosen instrument
when booking. Tutors: Al Summers and Ray Bradfield
Boost your German
Saturday 20 February
Fee: £50
Having even more than a basic knowledge and understanding of a
language is extremely useful when on holiday, but not just then.
Whether you studied German in the dim and distant past, or more
recently, neither your age nor the amount of experience you may have in
learning and using German is a barrier to renewing your interest and
deepening your understanding of this fascinating language. During the
day, you will rediscover long lost knowledge and build on basic
foundations, develop your confidence and enhance your language skills
generally. Tutor: Birgit Piegeler-Hughes
joy!
absolute
“An absolute joy!”
[email protected]
Understanding Watercolour
Saturday 20 February
Fee: £50
Vincent Van Gogh said you needed twenty-seven heads to paint a
watercolour, vowed to get to grips with the medium and then promptly
dropped it. Is it any wonder? A big favourite with leisure painters and
hobby artists, watercolour is both approachable and unintimidating, but
takes a lifetime to master. This one day course will provide you with
what you need to get started. Learn how to use the white of the paper,
how to mix and apply colour without streaks and create a simple and
effective landscape that will make the basis for your own creations.
Tutor: David Chandler
Concert with the Sacconi Quartet
Sunday 21 February 2.30pm
Tickets £16 (under 18s £8)
Pre-booked lunches available at £17
The award-winning Sacconi Quartet will perform a programme of
wonderful music: Mozart’s String Quartet in D major K499, Sibelius’s
Moderato and Allegro appassionato and Schubert’s String Quartet in G
major. The Quartet performs with style and commitment and is known
throughout the world for its creativity and integrity of interpretation.
This concert is sponsored by a Patron of Dillington.
www.dillington.com
Friday Friends Talk – 'Songs, Satire and Sophistication:
the History of Revue' with Dr Paul McDonald
Friday 26 February – 1.00pm
£22 (includes three course lunch with coffee and 50 minute talk)
One of the most popular and fashionable forms of entertainment in the
1920s and '30s was the revue, which provided humorous, fast-moving
and sophistcated sketches and songs on topical themes. The early
revues concentrated on music and spectacle; but gradually they
became more intimate, emphasissing wit and style, as perfomers like
Noel Coward joined-in. Come and hear what they were like in their hey
day and find out what happened to them afterwards.
FEB
Bookings & Enquiries 01460 258613
From King Lud to King's Cross: The History & Life of London
Dinner Friday 26 – Lunch Sunday 28 February
Fees (£) s 378 t 326 l 356 n 304 H 304 u 204
Dr Johnson wrote: 'When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life; for
there is in London all that life can afford'. In this course, we shall look at
the life of London from its foundation to the present day: its trades,
industries, docks and rivers; its theatres, music halls and other
entertainments; the creation of the suburbs and the role of the railways.
We will also hear the voices of London's inhabitants, past and present,
through their writings, songs, street cries and Cockney speech. Allcomers welcome. Dr Paul McDonald will also be presenting a Friday
Friends talk on 'Songs, Satire and Sophistication: the History of Revue'
prior to his course. Tutor: Dr Paul McDonald
53
s Sup ens sing occ t Sup ens dbl occ l Dbl ens sing occ n Dbl ens H Sing ens u Non res : Weekend Plus
FEB
Classical Guitar Orchestra Weekend
Sibelius: The Man and the Music
Dinner Friday 26 – Lunch Sunday 28 February
Fees (£) s 378 t 326 l 356 n 304 H 304 u 204
A unique musical experience for classical guitarists of all ages and of
varying abilities (but not complete beginners). The emphasis is on
participation, with students working in a non-competitive and supportive
environment. Parts of the orchestra range in difficulty from elementary
(Grade 2) to advanced (Grade 8) and are allocated in accordance with
each students’ playing standard. The music required for the course will
be made available one month before, to allow for some advance
preparation. Tutor: Peter Rueffer
Dinner Friday 4 – Lunch Sunday 6 March
Fees (£) s 378 t 326 l 356 n 304 H 304 u 204
Sibelius is one of the giants of music. In particular his seven symphonies
are recognised among the towering achievements of western man, but
they and other masterpieces were only created out of enormous struggle.
Using both musical and visual illustrations we will explore the
relationship between the man and the music as his remarkable career
evolved, while also noting his developing musical personality.
Tutor: Terry Barfoot
William the Conquerer and His Sons
Made in Britain: How Prehistory Shaped Our World
Dinner Friday 26 – Lunch Sunday 28 February
Fees (£): s 413 t 361 l 391 n 339 H 339 u 239
Before the coming of the Romans the people of these islands were nonliterate, relying on word of mouth to pass on their skills and knowledge.
Through an exploration of the archaeological inheritance they left behind
this course reveals how their craftsmanship, ingenuity and endeavour
shaped our world, laying the foundations for the Britain we inhabit today.
This weekend includes an all-day field trip to Ham Hill Fort, Glastonbury
Tribunal and Somerset Museum. All-comers welcome but please note
the field trip will include walking over rough ground.
Tutor: Dr Nick Snashall
Berlioz & The Trojans
Saturday 27 February
Fee: £50
We will explore Berlioz’s greatest work, the epic grand opera Les Troyens
(the Trojans) which was based on Virgil’s Aeneid, a work which stirred
the composer’s soul deeply. The opera portrays the capture of Troy by
the Greeks and the subsequent arrival of the Trojan survivors in
Carthage. The ensuing tragic romance between Dido, the Queen of
Carthage, and the Trojan prince, Aeneas, is one of the most searing of all
love stories. All-comers welcome. Tutor: Andrew Borkowski
Looking Good Feeling Good
Saturday 27 February
Fee: £55
Our style needs to evolve as we age so if it’s been a while since you took
an honest look at your colours and styles, this is the perfect opportunity
to spend a relaxing day gaining input into what suits you and why.
Realise your true potential with colours that suit your natural colouring
and clothing and accessories that flatter your personality. Make dressing
a joy not a chore and find the real you. This course is specifically
designed for women. All-comers welcome. Tutor: Jenny Webb
54
Dinner Friday 4 – Lunch Sunday 6 March
Fees (£) s 378 t 326 l 356 n 304 H 304 u 204
The Battle of Hastings and William's Norman settlement which followed
it were one of the great watersheds in English history. It was a period of
revolutionary change but also some striking continuity with the AngloSaxon society and culture it was replacing. The reigns of his sons
William Rufus and Henry I were to build on William's legacy to create a
powerful Anglo-Norman kingdom of England. Dispute over the
succession of Henry's daughter Matilda as Queen of England was to
plunge England into a Civil War and threaten this kingdom. The course
will follow the careers of three quite remarkable rulers and assess their
achievements. Tutor: Mark Cottle
Chinese Brush Painting - Summer Flower with Bird
and Insect in Freehand Style
Dinner Friday 4 – Lunch Sunday 6 March
Fees (£) s 378 t 326 l 356 n 304 H 304 u 204
Flowers and birds have been popular subjects in traditional Chinese
brush painting for over two thousand years. This course will focus on the
basic skills of painting different kind of flowers, birds and insects in free
hand style, such as: wisterias with swallow, peony with butterfly and
Chinese lotus flower with dragonfly. The course will include
demonstration and individual supervision. You will be given a list of
things to bring but the tutor will also have some materials available for
purchase at a reasonable price. All levels of experience welcome.
Tutor: Kaili Fu
lovely
relaxing
“A lovely relaxing day”
[email protected]
www.dillington.com
Elizabeth Bowen – Selected Short Stories
Explore the River Axe in Devon
Saturday 5 March
Fee: £50
Elizabeth Bowen’s stories explore childhood memories, the natural
world, love, loss and the occult. Place is as significant as character and
her writing is noted for its sharpness of observation. Both World Wars
inspired many of her best short stories. From The Demon Lover, we
learn what it was like to live in London during the blitz. In Joining
Charles, the story of a young, unhappy wife: ‘A ghost from the future
stood out from the looking glass.’ In Daffodils, we learn of the loneliness
of a middle aged schoolmistress. Through readings and discussion, we
will consider how Bowen accommodates the demands of the short story
together with a world of dreams, fantasy and the unfamiliar. All-comers
welcome. Tutor: Joan Wiles
Saturday 5 March
Fee: £80
Spend a spring day with David Hunt in the valley of the River Axe in east
Devon exploring some beautiful countryside and visiting unusual sites
including the World War 2 defences. Our minibus takes us to places off
the beaten track and (weather permitting) to some interesting views and
excellent photo opportunities. Packed lunches and refreshments will be
provided. All comers welcome but please note there may be some
walking on rough ground. Tutor: David Hunt
MAR
Bookings & Enquiries 01460 258613
An Introduction to Chi Kung
Saturday 5 March
Fee: £50
An introduction to a gentle and effective exercise routine that stimulates
all the energy channels, major organs, muscles, bones and joints. This
course has been running several times a year for a number of years and
attendees have been known to repeat the course to increase their
knowledge and ability. It is aimed initially at those with no previous
experience of Chi Kung, but who would like to learn how to help manage
their physical well-being. All ages and levels of fitness will achieve
benefits. Tutor: Patrick Harries
Four Medieval Christians
Saturday 5 March
Fee: £50
What inspired medieval men and women to give their lives to God? We
will examine the lives and writings of four very different individuals: St
Benedict, Hildegard of Bingen, Francis of Assisi and Margery Kempe.
Benedict’s Rule for Monasteries was a foundational text throughout the
Middle Ages; Hildegard was a gifted abbess. In contrast, Francis of
Assisi saw himself as ‘the little poor man’. Margery Kempe was a mother
who described her adventures as a pilgrim. All-comers welcome.
Tutor: Sister Elizabeth Rees
enjoyable
“A really enjoyable day.”
day
Oliver Cromwell: Saint or Serpent?
with Professor Ronald Hutton
Sunday 6 March 2.30pm
Tickets £12 including tea and cake
Pre-booked lunches available at £17
(Lunches will be served in the Garden Room in the Hyde)
Oliver Cromwell, the only commoner ever to become supreme head of a
British state, has always produced deep divisions of opinion, between
those who view him as one of the greatest of Britons, to those who see
him as a usurper, tyrant and fanatic. This lecture is designed to show
why Cromwell is such a complex figure and to provide its own
assessment of his character.
55
s Sup ens sing occ t Sup ens dbl occ l Dbl ens sing occ n Dbl ens H Sing ens u Non res : Weekend Plus
Friday Friends Talk - Nefertiti: Ancient Egypt’s
Most Intriguing Queen with Lucia Gahlin
MAR
Friday 11 March – 1.00pm
£22 (includes three course lunch with coffee
and 50 minute talk)
Nefertiti is arguably the most famous queen of pharaonic Egypt. Her bust
displayed in Berlin is iconic. She was the Chief Royal Wife of the Ancient
Egyptian pharaoh Akhenaten (c1352-c1336 BC), and together they
continue to fascinate. Intriguing changes appear in the art and religion of
this period of Egypt’s history – peculiar representations of the royal
family, and an attempt at monotheism in what was traditionally a
polytheistic society. The female members of this royal family were
exceptional. In this lecture we will examine the various roles played by
Nefertiti and other royal women of the time, and how these were
expressed in stunning imagery.
Saqqara: Egypt’s Most Important Ancient Necropolis
Dinner Friday 11 – Lunch Sunday 13 March
Fees (£) s 378 t 326 l 356 n 304 H 304 u 204
In this weekend course we will enjoy an in-depth exploration of one of
Egypt’s most significant ancient sites – Saqqara, the necropolis of Egypt’s
ancient capital Memphis. We will examine the architecture, reliefs,
inscriptions, statuary and funerary equipment of the extraordinary tombs
of pharaohs, nobles and sacred animals, dating from the Early Dynastic
Period through to the Ptolemaic Period. We will consider the mastaba
tombs of some of Egypt’s earliest pharaohs and statesmen; the oldest
large-scale stone monument in the world – the step pyramid complex of
the 3rd dynasty pharaoh Djoser; the 5th dynasty pyramid of Unas with
the earliest Egyptian theological writings (‘Pyramid Texts’) inscribed on its
walls; the other fascinating mastabas and pyramids of both North and
South Saqqara; the elaborately decorated ‘temple tombs’ of the New
Kingdom, including those of Tutankhamun’s treasurer Maya and general,
Horemheb; and the Apis bull burials of the Serapeum, and other scared
animal catacombs, particularly popular at the end of pharaonic history.
All-comers welcome. Tutor: Lucia Gahlin
56
The Sixties
Dinner Friday 11 – Lunch Sunday 13 March
Fees (£) s 378 t 326 l 356 n 304 H 304 u 204
The Sixties seemed to show dramatic changes in British life: from music
to fashion, politics to education, lifestyles to law. Through the prism of
the 21st Century we will scrutinize the decade – in Britain and elsewhere
- asking whether these years have had a profound or superficial impact
over the past fifty years or so. Tutor: Edward Towne
Moorish Spain
Dinner Friday 11 – Lunch Sunday 13 March
Fees (£) s 378 t 326 l 356 n 304 H 304 u 204
No era of European History was as remarkable or left as indelible a mark
as Moorish Spain. The history, language, architecture, decorative arts,
music, gastronomy, personality of the Iberian Peninsula owes so much to
the civilization that occupied at least part of Spain for nearly 800 years.
We shall follow the history of Moorish Spain from the invasion of 711 to
the final surrender of Granada in 1492. We shall explore its architecture
in particular the great cities, the Andalusian villages, the castles, palaces
and mosques that remain to bear witness to one of the most advanced
eras in Western History. We shall listen to the music, read the poetry,
enjoy the architecture and, finally, assess the influence of Moorish Spain
in the modern world. Tutor: Chris Pollard
CONCERTS
The Classical Guitar Festival
Sunday 2 – Thursday 6 August
Daily at 8.00pm
The Coull Quartet
Sunday 27 September
2.30pm
Piano Recital with Tom Poster
Sunday 18 October
2.30pm
The Chamber Ensemble of London We Will Remember
Sunday 22 November
2.30pm
The Vogler String Quartet and Richard Hosford
(clarinet)
Sunday 31 January
2.30pm
The Sacconi Quartet
Sunday 21 February
2.30pm
1685 - 3 Masters
Sunday 20 March
2.30pm
The Gould Piano Trio
Sunday 8 May
2.30pm
57
s Sup ens sing occ t Sup ens dbl occ l Dbl ens sing occ n Dbl ens H Sing ens u Non res : Weekend Plus
News from the Fronts: Verdun and Allied planning for 1916
MAR
Saturday 12 March
Fee: £50 (Book five of Mike Shaw’s day courses in this programme
at the same time and save £4 on each)
As the Allied military chiefs assembled at Chantilly to discuss plans for
co-ordinated offensives on Western and Eastern Fronts, the French
position at Verdun had been rendered tenuous with the German capture
of Fort Douaumont, keystone to the whole front. News from the mInor
theatres was mixed but in Mesopotamia a British force was trapped in
Kut. Against this backdrop the political leaders met in Paris to review
plans for summer offensives on both major fronts. Tutor: Mike Shaw
Swordsmen & Sonneteers – The Renaissance Courtier
Saturday 12 March
Fee: £50
The Elizabethan period is one dominated by two iconic cultural artefacts.
The first is the swordsman, the second the writer of sonnets. Sometimes,
as in the case of Shakespeare, an individual is notable for one only of
these attributes. Following the Italianate principles set out by Castiglione
in his 'The Book of the Courtier', some men succeeded in bringing the
two together, as in the case of Sir Philip Sidney, in whom these attributes
came together in the highest degree. Tutor: Dr Leslie Hoose
An Eggstra Special Easter!
Saturday 12 March
Fee: £95 (includes materials)
Come along and join our enthusiastic and flamboyant tutor and create
sumptuous designs for Easter from seasonal flowers, foliages and
materials to enhance your home and delight your family and friends.
During the day there will be demonstrations and lots of hints and tips to
learn. You will be provided with all the materials you will need to
complete three Easter designs. There will be a selection of Easter
goodies to purchase on the day. All-comers welcome. Please bring with
you a pair of secateurs and a box to take designs home in.
Tutor: Angie Blackwell
58
A Cultural Adventure to Seville & Moorish Spain –
Study Tour led by Chris Pollard
Sunday 13 – Thursday 17 March
Following on from the weekend Course, we pack our bags and head for
the south of Spain and the unique city of Cordoba where we spend four
nights in a hotel next to the great Mosque. We shall experience a rich
and wonderful four days: two in Cordoba itself, the most 'Moorish' (still)
of all Spanish cities, where, among other things, we shall visit the
Mosque, the summer palace of the Caliph and its wonderful museum;
one in Seville, where we explore the Royal Palace, the Casa de Pilatos
and the Minaret of the Mosque; and one exploring the villages of the
hinterland where the architecture and atmosphere are more reminiscent
of North Africa. Moorish Spain has to be seen, to be experienced and
tasted, to be believed!
As always our Study Tour is all inclusive and all accommodation, visits
and meals (including dinners based on Moorish cuisine) are included.
This study tour is organised in association with Christopher Pollard Tours.
Early booking is strongly advised.
The tour fee is £870 (plus £90 single person supplement) for 4 nights’
en-suite accommodation, all meals, including wholesome picnic lunches
and entrance fees in Spain. Flights and UK airport transfers from and to
Dillington will be arranged by Dillington House, unless you wish to make
alternative arrangements. The combined costs of your flights, UK
transfers and admin fees will be around £200 per person as estimated at
the time of going to press. Numbers are limited so please book early!
Please note a non-returnable deposit of £200 is payable on booking.
For further details, booking conditions and bookings contact the
Bookings Office on 01460 258613.
[email protected]
Stumpwork Strawberries
Dinner Friday 18 – Lunch Sunday 20 March
Fees (£) s 378 t 326 l 356 n 304 H 304 u 204
Intricate strawberry designs have embellished embroidered textiles all
through history, particularly in the Elizabethan age. This course will
cover many different ways of working raised strawberries, together with
their flowers, to build an attractive piece of work that could be made up
into a scissors holder or needlebook. This course will cover a variety of
hand embroidery stitches, and is suitable for all abilities.
Tutor: Annette Bolton
www.dillington.com
Friday Friends Talk: ‘An Astonishingly Brief History
of the Piano – from Bach to Boogie, from Ragtime to
Rachmaninov, from Jane Austen to Jazz’ with Chris Howes
Friday 18 March 1.00pm
£22 (includes three course lunch with coffee and 50 minute talk)
Join Chris Howes for a whirlwind journey through pianos and their
musical sounds - from the harpsichord and spinet to the concert grand.
Our music includes the wit and wonder of composers and star
musicians, including Franz Liszt, Jane Austin and her ‘square’ piano,
Horowitz, Duke Ellington, Ravel and more.
MAR
Bookings & Enquiries 01460 258613
Musical Impressionism – From Dawn Till Dusk
must go
“I must go to
the next one!”
Dinner Friday 18 – Lunch Sunday 20 March
Fees (£) s 378 t 326 l 356 n 304 H 304 u 204
During this weekend we will try to get inside the ‘feel’ as well as the ‘nuts
and bolts’ of the Impressionism label in search of what it means in
music. It’s not as easy to pin down as is the Impressionist Painting
Movement. Debussy initially scoffed at the tag, but what did he and
Ravel owe to Monet and Pissarro as well as to composers of the earlier
Romantic Movement? How did Franz Liszt’s revolutionary ideas pave the
way for Impressionism? What linked qualities do we hear in the music of
Erik Satie and of jazz musicians such as Duke Ellington, Bill Evans and
Bix Beiderbecke? Come and join the search – all-comers welcome.
Tutor: Chris Howes
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MAR
Mah Jongg – Chinese Traditional Way to Play
1685 - Three Masters
Dinner Friday 18 – Lunch Sunday 20 March
Fees (£) s 378 t 326 l 356 n 304 H 304 u 204
Mah Jonng, also known as 'The Game of Four Winds', has been the
Chinese national game for centuries. It is said that half the population of
China can play this game. The beauty of the tiles, the variety of the
rules, the Eastern tradition and culture in the playing make the game
logical, competitive and addictive. Contrary to common belief it is easy
to learn how to play the game, but as in many other games, the more
you play the more you realise how much you need to learn to be able to
win the game. The various rules will be introduced with the progress of
the course. You will enjoy the relaxed and encouraging way of teaching.
Come and learn to play! All-comers welcome. Tutor: Dr Xuzhuang Li
Sunday 20 March 2.30pm
Tickets £14 (under 18s £7)
Pre-booked lunches available at £17
Kate Semmens, soprano, with harpsichordists Colin Booth
and Steven Devine.
To conclude this year's weekend course, a celebration of the three
most famous Baroque composers, all born in 1685 - Bach, Handel,
and Scarlatti. This concert will feature two beautiful double-manual
harpsichords in addition to Kate Semmens’ radiant voice.
1685 - A Great Year for Music
Dinner Friday 18 – Lunch Sunday 20 March
Fees (£): s 400 t 348 l 378 n 326 H 326 u 226
The three greatest figures in the world of baroque music were all born
in the same year. Bach, Handel, and Scarlatti grew up in very different
environments, and only the latter two ever met. So it is fascinating to
explore how their careers developed in parallel, but on very different
lines. Harpsichordists Steven Devine and Colin Booth are naturally
immersed for much of their lives in the music produced by these three
great geniuses. This weekend course gives them and participants an
unusual opportunity to enjoy not just a wealth of striking and varied
compositions - played live and on recordings - but to compare how the
three musicians lived. Their lives were all, in different ways, touched
by triumph and tragedy - features naturally reflected in their music.
Kate Semmens (Soprano) will join Steven and Colin for the concert on
Sunday and will also lead an optional session entitled “singing for fun”
on Saturday afternoon.
This course also includes a ticket for the Sunday afternoon concert.
Tutors: Colin Booth and Steven Devine
incredible
absolutely
“Absolutely
incredible course”
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[email protected]
www.dillington.com
West Country Railways
A326 OU Empire Revision Course
Saturday 19 March
Fee: £50
This course explores the archaeology and heritage of railways from
Wiltshire to Cornwall. Brunel’s work is seen in the Box Tunnel, Dawlish
railway, Royal Albert Bridge and spectacular viaducts. Abandoned lines
are worth investigating, especially branches serving mineral and other
industries. Case studies include the contrasting Liskeard and Caradon
Railway, and the Somerset and Dorset Railway. Alongside, the region’s
heritage includes a number of important preserved steam-worked
railways. All-comers welcome. Tutor: Dr Peter Stanier
Tea Sunday 20 – Lunch Thursday 24 March
Fees (£): s 756 t 652 l 712 n 608 H 608 u 408
What better place to learn about empires than Dillington, the home of
Lord North, the Prime Minister when Britain lost the US colonies?! This
is a course for Open University A326 students. The objectives are:
revision; preparing TMA06 and the EMA; and creating a supportive
atmosphere. The course is based on lectures, films and discussions.
No check will be made to see if Lord North has turned in his grave!
Please note this course is run independently of the Open University.
Tutor: Dr John Kirkaldy
MAR
Bookings & Enquiries 01460 258613
Bookbinding
Lunch Monday 21 – Lunch Thursday 24 March
Fees (£): s 567 t 489 l 534 n 456 H 456 u 306
This course is intended for all levels from the complete beginner to the
more experienced and will take place in a studio that is well equipped
for general bookbinding. Beginners will be introduced to the basic
theory and techniques of bookbinding, while advanced students will be
assisted in pursuing particular projects. All aspects of bookbinding are
encouraged and there will also be an optional session on different styles
of endpaper. Tutor: Angela Sutton
Carole King’s “Tapestry” – Vocal Day
The Genius of Metaphysical Poets
Saturday 19 March
Fee: £50
The seventeenth century witnessed an amazing flowering of a group of
writers later known as the Metaphysical poets because they used the
discoveries of explorers and the wealth of contemporary science to
become metaphors for their emotions and spiritual journey. Of these
many gifted poets, John Donne, George Herbert and Thomas Traherne
are possibly the most ingenious and powerful in their range of subjects
which move and enrich our lives today. Tutor: Elizabeth Rapp
Early Bird Bookings
For those courses marked
an early bird discount
of 10% will apply if booked by the end of September.
Monday 21 March
Fee: £50
Released in 1971, Carole King’s ‘Tapestry’ album topped the U.S. album
chart for 15 weeks and remained on the charts for more than six years.
Spend a day exploring King’s earthy, L.A. session-pop style and learning
to sing tracks from this enduring music sensation including ‘You’ve Got a
Friend’ and ‘I Feel the Earth Move’. This fun group-singing format is
suitable for male and female voices. Some harmony singing experience
would be helpful but you don’t need to be able to read music notation.
Tutor: Jo Sercombe
Still Life & the Landscape
Tea Tuesday 29 – Lunch Thursday 31 March
Fees (£): s 388 t 336 l 366 n 314 H 314 u 214
This is a practical course using acrylic paint, drawing materials and
collage. Artists as varied as Frances Hodgkins, Edward Wadsworth,
Winifred Nicholson and Mary Fedden have been fascinated by the
imaginative possibilities of still life in or against the landscape. Using
mixed media in a variety of ways we will examine the contrasts and
interesting ambiguities of this relationship. Suitable for those with
some experience of painting and drawing. Tutor: David Cuthbert
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MAR
Getting beyond the Census –
Bringing your Family History Alive
An Ordinary Czech Musician: The Musical & Personal
Friendship of Antonín Dvorák with Johannes Brahms
Tea Tuesday 29 – Lunch Thursday 31 March
Fees (£): s 388 t 336 l 366 n 614 H 614 u 214
This course will bring your family history to life. Where did they live?
What did they do? Did they move? We will see how social history
affected their lives, looking at the bigger picture. There will be a chance
for you all to participate, share research and learning experiences with
each other, get updated on what’s new on the internet and have fun with
your research! Tutor: Jane Ferentzi-Sheppard
Tea Monday 4 – Lunch Thursday 7 April
Fees (£): s 567 t 489 l 534 n 456 H 456 u 306
‘An Ordinary Czech Musician’ - that is how Antonín Dvorák described
himself, an attitude reflected in the awe in which he held his older
contemporary Johannes Brahms. The two composers eventually became
good friends, and in this course we shall consider how their mutual
respect manifested itself in their many masterpieces in all genres of
music. There will be plentiful examples on CD and DVD; no specialist
knowledge is required. Tutor: Gwyn Parry-Jones
Hadrian’s Wall and Imperial Rome’s Frontiers
Tea Tuesday 29 – Lunch Thursday 31 March
Fees (£): s 399 t 347 l 377 n 325 H 325 u 225
From Augustus’ creation of an organised empire in the first century B.C.,
the limits were established and (apart from one or two extensions!)
remained largely unaltered through four centuries. We will look at the
early frontiers, how different provinces adopted different solutions, and
the gradual increase in scale and complexity as external threats came to
bear on the empire. Tutor: Nick Griffiths
The Johann Strauss Family – A Tour of Britain
Wednesday 30 March
Fee: £50
The Strauss (Waltz King) family were so numerous that it is sometimes
impossible to be certain which one wrote which tunes. Father Johann
was sufficiently astute to tour England with his orchestra cashing in on
Queen Victoria's coronation celebrations. They gave concerts in a
different location every night (except Sundays) from August to
November. We not only know the name of every city but even the hotel in
which they stayed. Brahms was a great admirer of his son, Johann II
(Blue Danube), who in turn visited this country in 1867, though with a
much less gruelling schedule. The waltzes were all written for specific
occasions; thus Covent Garden Waltz and Annen-Polka (in honour of
Anna, Victoria's first born). Tutor: Eric Wetherell
Botanical Illustration
Tea Monday 4 – Lunch Thursday 7 April
Fees (£): s 567 t 489 l 534 n 456 H 456 u 306
Botanical Illustration is precise detailed work, a combination of art and
science. This studio based watercolour course is for all ability levels; no
experience of art or botany is required, just commitment. We aim to
enjoy working in an atmosphere of relaxed industry. Students will work
at their own pace on the subject of their choice. The course will cover
the use of basic materials and methods for beginners and will offer
professional advice to advanced students. The emphasis will be on
individual development. All-comers welcome.
Tutor: Susan Hillier
Pattern Draft a Skirt and Sew
Wednesday 30 & Thursday 31 March
Fee: £100
During this two day course you will learn how to make a block, then a
pattern, followed by making up the skirt on day two. A very useful
course for students who would like to learn how to make a pattern to fit
themselves in order to create their own designs which will fit correctly.
All-comers welcome but please note you will need basic sewing
knowledge, including the ability to use your own sewing machine,
which you will need to bring with you. Tutor: Jenny Harrison
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Early Bird Bookings
For those courses marked
an early bird discount
of 10% will apply if booked by the end of September.
Out to Lunch with Friday Friends
£22
Three course lunch with coffee followed by a talk
Whether you live locally or would like to arrive early for your weekend course, why not book
yourself in for a delicious lunch followed by a bit of mental stimulation? The talks are always
informative and enjoyable and together with lunch it’s amazingly good value too.
Photographic Odyssey - Shackleton’s Endurance
Expedition Captured on Camera with Mark Cottle
Friday 30 October – 1.00pm
Ariadne Into Music: Picking Up the Thread with Roderick
Swanston
Friday 6 November - 1.00pm
Church Crawling Around England with Philip Wilkinson
Friday 13 November – 1.00pm
Origins of the English Parliament with Tim Porter
Friday 27 November – 1.00pm
The Amazing Originality of Van Gogh with Wayne Bennett
Friday 4 December – 1.00pm
Millennium Stained Glass Windows with Mike Hope
Friday 5 February – 1.00pm
Songs, Satire and Sophistication: the History of Revue
with Dr Paul McDonald
Friday 26 February – 1.00pm
Nefertiti: Ancient Egypt's Most Intriguing Queen with
Lucia Gahlin
Friday 11 March – 1.00pm
An Astonishingly Brief History of the Piano – from Bach to
Boogie, from Ragtime to Rachmaninov, from Jane Austen
to Jazz’ with Chris Howes
Friday 18 March - 1.00pm
Tickets: £22 (pre-booking is essential) includes three course lunch with coffee and a 50 minute talk.
Please note lunch will be on shared tables and there is no reserved seating in the lecture rooms.
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APR
English Gothic: 600 years of a style
Looking Good Feeling Good
Tea Monday 4 – Lunch Thursday 7 April
Fees (£): s 567 t 489 l 534 n 456 H 456 u 306
Gothic is the most perfect fusion of art and engineering that’s ever been
devised: it looks good because it’s structurally sound! Twelfth century
France made the breakthrough but such was Gothic’s flexibility that
England soon developed its own verison – flowery and wayward to start
with, grand and dignified later on. The course will follow these winding
evolutions and tie them into their historical background. When the
Reformation hit Europe, the style went underground. But when it did reemerge and the Gothic revival got underway, this time it was England
that made the breakthrough and this is when the astonishing story
reaches its climax!
Tutor: Tim Porter
Tuesday 5 April
Fee: £55
Our style needs to evolve as we age so if it’s been a while since you took
an honest look at your colours and styles, this is the perfect opportunity
to spend a relaxing day gaining input into what suits you and why.
Realise your true potential with colours that suit your natural colouring
and clothing and accessories that flatter your personality. Make dressing
a joy not a chore and find the real you. This course is specifically
designed for women. All-comers welcome. Tutor: Jenny Webb
Alignment Therapy
Tuesday 5 April
Fee: £50
Do you have back (or other) pain and want to relieve it? The Evans
Technique of Alignment Therapy, officially recognised in 2011 by the
Independent Professional Therapists International (IPTI), is an extremely
gentle and painless way of relieving back and other joint pain. During
the day we will look at ways of using simple body movements to relieve
aches and pains. This self-help course is designed for those who want
to relieve their own aches or want to help others with theirs. The
technique has been designed by its originator Ann Evans who is running
the course. All-comers welcome.
Tutor: Ann Evans
Ukulele Workshop – Beginners
Tuesday 5 April
Fee: £50
Always wanted to play an instrument but thought you never could? – Yes
Uke Can! This workshop will introduce you to the ukulele from scratch.
You will learn how to: hold it, tune it, strum it, play 5 simple chords and
put them all together in a few familiar songs. This one day course is ideal
for anyone who has little or no experience of playing a musical instrument.
It is also suitable for those who have tried to teach themselves the
ukulele but would like some guidance. In a few short hours you will be
strumming along to familiar songs and enjoying the pleasures of
communal music making in a friendly and supportive group. Ukuleles
are available to loan for the day but please request one on booking.
Please also indicate if you are a left-handed player.
Tutor: Sally Vaughan
The Romantic Ballet – Sylphs, Wilis & Other Spirits
Wednesday 6 April
Fee: £50
The first Romantic ballet – La Sylphide (1832) – turned ballerinas into
stars, soon eclipsing their male counterparts. This fascinating story of
passions and intrigues brings to life the stories behind famous ballets
such as La Sylphide, Giselle, Ondine, Le Papillon and more, and
introduces the famous ballerinas whose rivalries and jealousies caused
many a man to lose his senses. Tutor: Bridgett Vane
Honiton Lace
Dinner Friday 8 – Lunch Sunday 10 April
Fees (£) s 378 t 326 l 356 n 304 H 304 u 204
This is a practical course designed for bobbin lacemakers of all abilities.
For those who have knowledge of basic bobbin stitches there is the
opportunity to be introduced to the techniques of this classic English
lace. Those experienced in Honiton lacemaking can expand their skills
and understanding of this lace and gain inspiration and guidance on
interpretations and design development. Whatever your level, come and
enjoy the magic of lacemaking. Tutor: Liz Trebble
recommend
“I really learnt a lot so
would highly recommend.”
recommend
64
[email protected]
www.dillington.com
An Exploration Weekend
Free-Machine Embroidery for Improvers
Dinner Friday 8 – Lunch Sunday 10 April
Fees (£) s 378 t 326 l 356 n 304 H 304 u 204
A weekend course with Brian Anderson, photographer and adventurer,
looking at some of the great explorers and their expeditions into the
unknown world, or the ‘terra incognita’ of their centuries. We will travel
the routes of Magellan, Drake, Cook, Weddell and others, and see the
landscapes, wildlife & peoples they encountered on their expeditions.
This course is richly illustrated with stunning images from Brian’s travels
to over 55 nations and territories on five continents over the last 25 years
or so. Tutor: Brian Anderson
Saturday 9 April
Fee: £50
An inspiring and fun course aimed at those with experience in the
technique who have grasped the basics and now want to develop and
improve on their existing skills. Working from your own design motif or
the tutors you will build a collection of samples in a variety of threads and
stitches and learn how to combine the technique with appliqué fabrics.
Tutor: Jenni Cadman
Understanding Greek Tragedy and Greek Comedy
Saturday 9 April
Fee: £50
Some amazing plays were performed in Athens in the 5th century BC.
This course traces the origins and development of Greek drama and
provides an opportunity to participate in two play readings: Euripides
'Bacchae' in which King Pentheus recklessly rejects the worship of
Dionysus and Aristophanes 'The Frogs', in which Dionysus, dressed as
Heracles, enters the Underworld to bring back a dead dramatist to advise
the Athenians in their hour of need. All-comers welcome.
Tutor: Roger Priest
APR
Bookings & Enquiries 01460 258613
‘Illustrations from the Edge – The Art of Exploration’
with Brian Anderson
Flappers, Vamps & All that Jazz: The Roaring Twenties Dinner Friday 8 – Lunch Sunday 10 April
Fees (£) s 378 t 326 l 356 n 304 H 304 u 204
The 1920s were a time of great upheaval, as society was torn between a
desire to return to the certainties of the past and rejection of the old
certainties of the Edwardian era. The result was a creative tension that
led to new developments in society, politics and the arts, including daring
new plays, modern poetry, jazz, the golden age of detective fiction and
the stories of P. G. Wodehouse. We shall explore the events, ideas and
politics of this racy decade, making use of the literature and music of the
period. All-comers welcome. Tutor: Dr Paul McDonald
Sunday 10 April 2.30pm
Tickets £12 including tea and cake
Pre-booked lunches available at £17
A sumptuously illustrated talk about the work of six British ‘expedition
artists’ who travelled with some of the world’s great explorers from the
C18th to C20th. You will see wonderful illustrations by William Hodges,
David Roberts, Edward Wilson, Thomas Moran, Thomas Baines and
Conrad Martens, accompanied by Brian’s stunning images from 5
continents. A true visual treat for art lovers and armchair travellers!
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LECTURES
Venice Carnevale with Brian Anderson
Sunday 8 November
2.30pm
Harlots, Rakes and Crashing China
with Lars Tharp
Sunday 24 January
2.30pm
‘You Say Potato' with Ben and David Crystal
Sunday 14 February
2.30pm
Oliver Cromwell: Saint or Serpent? with
Professor Ronald Hutton
Sunday 6 March
2.30pm
‘Illustrations from the Edge The Art of Exploration’ with Brian Anderson
Sunday 10 April
2.30pm
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[email protected]
www.dillington.com
Silk Painting Big & Bold
Coleridge and his Circle in Somerset
Dinner Friday 15 – Lunch Sunday 17 April
Fees (£) s 378 t 326 l 356 n 304 H 304 u 204
Silk painting is an accessible and hugely enjoyable medium, which is
suitable for all levels of ability. This course is suitable for experienced
silk painters and for complete beginners. It starts with an introduction to
the basic techniques including; gutta, wet-in-wet and salt effects.
However most of the course will be devoted to participants own projects.
There will also be on-going tutor demonstrations by the tutor.
Tutor: John Farmelo
Saturday 16 April
Fee: £50
This study day will explore the emerging Romantic sensibility and the
poetry and politics of the 1790s. The focus is on Samuel Taylor
Coleridge, particularly the inspiration he drew from the local landscape
and from his friendship with Dorothy and William Wordsworth during
their shared years in Somerset. We shall look at the four ‘conversation
poems’ written at Nether Stowey and also consider some factors in the
decline of his poetic powers in later years. Tutor: Jane Crozier
Restoration to Revolution: England 1660 - 1688
Ancient Egyptian Treasures in Oxford and Cambridge
Dinner Friday 15 – Lunch Sunday 17 April
Fees (£) s 378 t 326 l 356 n 304 H 304 u 204
After twenty years of civil war most people looked to a return to
‘normalcy’ after the Restoration of Charles II in May 1660, yet the
‘Restoration Settlement’ settled very little. This course will explore this
exciting period in English history. We will consider such topics as the
Popish Plot and the Exclusion Crisis, the emergence of Whigs and Tories,
the fear of Louis XIV’s France and the fact that the heir, James, Duke of
York, was a Roman Catholic. Tutor: Dr Andrew Lacey
Saturday 16 April
Fee: £50
The Ashmolean Museum in Oxford and Fitzwilliam Museum in
Cambridge house two of the finest collections of Egyptian antiquities in
the UK. In this day course will explore a wealth of ancient Egyptian
material, examining highlights of these two wonderful collections from
the Predynastic Period (4th millennium BC) through to the Roman
Period (2nd century AD). Outstanding pieces in terms of art, history and
culture will include in Oxford: the giant decorated stone mace-heads of
Egypt’s earliest kings Narmer and Scorpion, the stunning ‘Amarna
Princesses’ wall-painting, and the Nubian shrine of pharaoh Taharqa, the
only ancient Egyptian building in this country; and in Cambridge: an
intricately decorated set of coffins belonging to Nespawershefyt, and the
magnificent sarcophagus lid of Ramesses III from his tomb in the Valley
of the Kings. Come and learn about a fascinating range of material from
Ancient Egypt, and you will enjoy your visits to these two very special
museums all the more. All-comers welcome. Tutor: Lucia Gahlin
Britain & Ireland After The Romans
Dinner Friday 15 – Lunch Sunday 17 April
Fees (£) s 378 t 326 l 356 n 304 H 304 u 204
What happened to Britain after the Romans left? Was there genocide,
ethnic cleansing or cultural assimilation? ‘Britain and Ireland after the
Romans’ will examine the tumultuous changes that occurred from the
fifth century onwards that ultimately gave birth to the separate English
and British speaking communities of Britain and Ireland.
Tutor: Richard Henderson
Intermediate Acoustic Guitar Day
Saturday 16 April
Fee: £55
This course gives acoustic guitar players the encouragement to explore
more challenging material and techniques using a wide range of musical
genres. Add blues to your Bach? Or Bach to your blues? Then join the
many who have enjoyed playing and learning in a relaxed atmosphere.
Our comprehensive study pack contains material in standard notation
and TAB. Tutors: Al Summers and Ray Bradfield
APR
Bookings & Enquiries 01460 258613
A300 - Open University Twentieth Century Literature EMA
Preparation
Lunch Monday 18 – Lunch Wednesday 20 April
Fees (£): s 418 t 366 l 396 n 344 H 344 u 244
This course is designed specifically for Open University students
studying A300 and preparing for the End-of-Module Assessment (EMA).
Its purpose is to provide an opportunity for detailed analysis of the
relevant texts, as well as full discussion of theoretical issues and
approaches to writing and structuring the extended essay. There will also
be a chance for some discussion of TMA06 for those who have not quite
finished it. Please note this course is run independently of the Open
University. Tutor: Dr Lynda Morgan
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Britain's Industrial Heritage
Beethoven and the Archduke Rudolph
Lunch Monday 18 – Lunch Thursday 21 April
Fees (£): s 662 t 584 l 629 n 551 H 551 u 401
This course showcases aspects of Britain’s rich industrial heritage, from
Cheshire to Aberdeen, Derbyshire, Lincolnshire and the Isle of Man.
Typical sites include textile mills, water and wind mills, railways, canals,
mines, limekilns, cement works, breweries, maltings, salt works and
ports, but often the smallest industries are the most fascinating. There is
a field visit to local sites and the course concludes with a European
viewpoint. All-comers welcome but please note we will be walking over
rough and uneven ground during the visit. Tutor: Dr Peter Stanier
Dinner Friday 6 - Tea Sunday 8 May
Fees: £289 shared twin/double £315 single room £195 non resident
Beethoven’s wide-ranging list of compositions offers endless
opportunities for discovery. Our weekend will feature a variety of music
written for or dedicated to his favourite patron, the Archduke Rudolph,
including concertos, chamber music, piano sonatas and the great Missa
Solemnis. There will be visual and musical illustrations, as well as a
performance of the celebrated Archduke Trio by one of Britain’s leading
chamber ensembles, the Gould Piano Trio, for which tickets are
included.
APR
This course is run in association with Arts in Residence and includes
wine with dinner, tickets for the concert and concludes with afternoon
tea. All-comers welcome. The fees shown above are per person.
Weekend Plus is available for this weekend - £65 for supper, bed and
breakfast on the Sunday night (subject to availability)
Tutor: Terry Barfoot
News from the Fronts: Focus on the Battle of Jutland
Saturday 7 May
Fee: £50 (Book five of Mike Shaw’s day courses in this programme at the
same time and save £4 on each)
While the Battle of Verdun ground on, the Allies built up resources for
major offensives on the Eastern Front under General Brusilov and a
coordinated Anglo-French offensive astride the River Somme. At sea the
German High Seas Fleet sought a conclusive engagement in the North
Sea. Thus came about ‘Der Tag’ - the culmination of the Dreadnought
Arms Race – fought off Jutland on 31 May 1916.
Tutor: Mike Shaw
Papermaking and Literature
Tea Monday 18 – Lunch Thursday 21 April
Fees (£): s 577 t 499 l 544 n 466 H 466 u 316
Using rags, old books and new ideas, make handmade paper with a
literary theme. Authors like Wordsworth, Tennyson, Shakespeare,
Ruskin, Dickens and Beatrix Potter (to name a few) will be our
inspiration. Inventive and highly personalised papers will be created with
flowers, cloth, rope, old books and lots of words and poetry!
Tutor: Jonathan Korejko
:
Weekend Plus
You can extend your weekends by staying an extra night for a special
tariff of £65 subject to availability. This covers a light supper and
accommodation on Sunday night, and a full English breakfast on
Monday morning.
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“Fantastic, this will be
something I remember
and use for life.”
Fantastic
Fantastic
Bookings & Enquiries 01460 258613
[email protected]
www.dillington.com
Concert with the Gould Piano Trio
Saturday 7 May
Fee: £60
Beginners and those of all levels of experience are welcome on this day
of drawing or painting from a professional life model, clothed and posed
in everyday, familiar settings, including observation of the human head.
Students are invited to bring any materials they prefer. Demonstrations
and studies in proportion, tone and colour will support individual tuition.
Everyone will enjoy this friendly and informative day in Dillington’s
beautiful surroundings. Tutor: Stella Murray Whatley
Sunday 8 May 2.30pm
Tickets £16 (under 18s £8)
Pre-booked lunches available at £17
For over twenty years the Gould Piano Trio have remained at the forefront
of the chamber music scene, and we are very excited to welcome them
to Dillington. The programme for this concert will include Ravel’s Sonata
for Violin and Cello in C Major, Mozart’s Trio in G Major K564 and
Beethoven’s Archduke Trio.
This concert is sponsored by a Patron of Dillington.
MAY
Figure & Portrait Drawing in any Medium
AA316 - Open University Nineteenth Century
Literature Revision
What’s New on the Internet for Family Historians?
Saturday 7 May
Fee: £50
Are you just using a few family history websites and not finding anything
new? This course is your chance to widen your search and find out about
the many new sites family historians can benefit from to further their
research. Jane will present an up to the minute review of websites you
can use both free of charge and through a subscription. This course is
not suitable for beginners in Family History.
Tutor: Jane Ferentzi-Sheppard
Lunch Monday 16 – Lunch Thursday 19 May
Fees (£): s 567 t 489 l 534 n 456 H 456 u 306
This course is designed specifically for Open University students
studying AA316 and preparing for the examination. Its purpose is to
revise and consolidate the work that has been done on the nineteenthcentury novel, and to examine ways of turning that work to the best
effect in the examination. Skills of close analysis will be practised, along
with study of the theoretical material, and discussion of the key themes
of the module. The structure of the examination will be looked at closely
to help you focus and limit your revision, so as to maximise your
prospects for success. Please note this course is run independently of
the Open University.
Tutor: Dr Lynda Morgan
69
s Sup ens sing occ t Sup ens dbl occ l Dbl ens sing occ n Dbl ens H Sing ens u Non res : Weekend Plus
Romanesque Art, Architecture & Design
Dinner Monday 16 – Lunch Wednesday 18 May
Fees (£) s 378 t 326 l 356 n 304 H 304 u 204
This is an ensemble course for upper intermediate level recorder players.
We shall play as a large conducted ensemble, exploring music in many
different styles and from all periods of music from the sixteenth to the
twenty-first century. The music to be studied will utilise all sizes of
recorder, from descant to contrabass. Students are required to have the
ability to play in F and C fingerings. The repertoire will include some
Renaissance multi-choir pieces along with music by William Brade,
J.S.Bach, Hans Ulrich Staeps and others. All music will be provided.
Tutor: Helen Hooker
Tea Tuesday 31 May - Lunch Thursday 2 June
Fees (£): s 401 t 349 l 379 n 327 H 327 u 227
The Romanesque period represents the first truly European wide
international style, since the fall of the Roman Empire. Its spread
alongside the expansion of the Roman Catholic Church is no
coincidence, as both the Catholic faith and the nascent political
ambitions of new nation states combined to create a heady mix of
militant Christianity, politics, nationalism and a resurgence of culture.
With its origins in the Byzantine, Merovingian, Carolingian, Ottonian and
Moorish empires, we shall see how each of these empires brought their
own artistic and cultural approaches, which would reflect and develop
across a few hundred years. Add to this mix the particular style
developed in the British Isles and indeed the survival of the Late Antique
style in parts of the Iberian Peninsula, Southern France and Italy and you
will see how these various elements fused to form the Romanesque.
Tutor: Mike Hope
MAY
Recorder Short Course
Wildlife & Natural History Painting in Gouache
Tea Tuesday 31 May - Lunch Thursday 2 June
Fees (£): s 388 t 336 l 366 n 314 H 314 u 214
This course is designed for beginners and upwards and will teach you
how to make a true representation of a wildlife subject whilst not
requiring any high level of drawing skill. From source material provided,
or from your own pictures, we will use the medium of gouache - an
opaque watercolour that is ideal for this subject – to create wonderful
lifelike pictures. Demonstrations and individual help will be the
foundation of this course which is open to all levels but please note that
the work will require a precise rather than a loose style of painting.
Tutor: Simon Williams
Meditation and Mindfullness
Much Ado About Nothing: Deception, Darkness & Dogberry
Tea Tuesday 31 May – Lunch Thursday 2 June
Fees (£): s 388 t 336 l 366 n 314 H 314 u214
‘I have deceived even your very eyes’. We will explore, through reading
and analysis, one of the most popular of Shakespeare’s comedies, Much
Ado About Nothing. We will focus on the central theme of deception in
the play: in particular the benevolent deception which supports the love
story between Beatrice and Benedick, and the malevolent deception
which underpins the plot against Hero. We will also consider the play in
performance by looking at recent film and television adaptations.
Participants will need to have read the play prior to attending the course.
All-comers welcome. Tutor: Trudy Hillier
70
Tea Tuesday 31 May - Lunch Thursday 2 June
Fees (£): s 388 t 336 l 366 n 314 H 314 u 214
A course designed for beginners, and for anyone wanting to refresh their
own practice. We will look at how traditional meditation is now
‘mainstream’, formulated as Mindfulness by Jon Kabat Zinn et.al., and
used therapeutically in many social contexts. We will have short periods
of silent practice with different meditation supports, starting with the
breath. A perfect introduction for those dealing with change or stress, or
the simply curious. There will be chairs to sit on (no special postures
required!), but wear loose clothing and warm socks. If you wish to sit on
the floor please bring a cushion and small blanket. All-comers welcome.
Tutor: Hilary Armstrong
[email protected]
Family History Research Day:
Using Dillington's Computers or Your Own Laptop
Wednesday 1 June
Fee: £50
If you have hit a brick wall in your family history research or simply need
a few pointers in the right direction, this one day workshop will provide
you with the opportunity to come along and carry out your own research,
whilst receiving guidance and advice from the tutor. A computer will be
provided or you are welcome to bring your own laptop. Numbers are
limited to ensure that there is plenty of time for each student to be given
the help and guidance they require. This workshop is suitable for those
who have attended the Introductory Day or have started their own
research and need help. Please note that to access many historical
records on-line you will need to use chargeable websites so please be
prepared for this. Tutor: Jane Taubman
Kinky Ukuleles
Wednesday 1 June
Fee: £50
The songs of ‘The Kinks’ will be the focus for this innovative ukulele
workshop run by Sally Vaughan who has delivered a number of popular
ukulele courses at Dillington House over the past 2 years. When Ray
Davies of ‘The Kinks’ penned his 60s classics he often cited influences
from the music hall days of the 1920s when ukulele music was very
much in its heyday. The chord progressions and arrangements of Kinks
songs therefore lend themselves well to modern day interpretations on
the ukulele, and the melodies and lyrics allow for some interesting
singing harmonies and vocal effects. This workshop is suitable for all
levels of players, although the ability to play the chords D, Dm, G, G7, A,
Am, C and F comfortably is recommended. All you need is a ukulele
and an open mind! Tutor: Sally Vaughan
www.dillington.com
Victorian Artists, Their Models & Muses
Tea Monday 27 - Lunch Thursday 30 June
Fees (£): s 577 t 499 l 544 n 466 H 466 u 316
From Dante Gabriel Rossetti and Elizabeth Siddal, to Lord Frederick
Leighton and Dorothy Dene, the work of many Victorian artists was
influenced by their models, many of whom became their muses,
mistresses or wives. In this course we will investigate the often complex
relationships between Victorian artists and their models and celebrate
the spectacular works of art resulting from these relationships.
All-comers welcome. Tutor: Dr Peter Bryden
Stumpwork Embroidery Sampler
Tea Monday 27 - Lunch Thursday 30 June
Fees (£): s 577 t 499 l 544 n 466 H 466 u 316
This course is open to anyone who loves hand embroidery, and would
like to try raised Stumpwork techniques, or experiment with new ideas
to incorporate into a sampler. These small precious embroideries could
display favourite garden or wild flowers, and maybe some colourful
berries. Inspiration can be taken from sixteenth century needlework,
as well as the beautiful gardens at Dillington. Suitable for all abilities.
Tutor: Annette Bolton
JUNE
Bookings & Enquiries 01460 258613
Summer Swing!
Monday 6 June
Fee: £50
Summer is the time for all things light-hearted, so why not spend a day
learning some of the Swing Era’s most-memorable numbers in this fun
group-singing workshop? With Cole Porter’s Too Darn Hot and the
Gershwin brothers’ iconic ‘Summertime’ we’ll explore the rhythmic
conventions of swing-feel and the lush textures of jazz harmony. Suitable
for male and female voices, some harmony singing experience would be
helpful but you don’t need to be able to read music notation.
Tutor: Jo Sercombe
Bookbinding – Crossed Structure Binding
Tea Monday 27 – Lunch Thursday 30 June
Fees (£): s 577 t 499 l 544 n 466 H 466 u 316
This course is intended for all levels from the complete beginner to the
more experienced and will take place in a studio that is well equipped
for general bookbinding. This course will focus on a technique of nonadhesive binding used widely on the Continent. A useful and flexible
style using either paper, leather or leather laminate materials. This is a
non-intrusive structure suitable for book artists, conservation or general
binding. Tutor: Sarah Jarrett-Kerr
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s Sup ens sing occ t Sup ens dbl occ l Dbl ens sing occ n Dbl ens H Sing ens u Non res : Weekend Plus
Tuesday 28 June
Fee: £50 (Book five of Mike Shaw’s day courses in this programme at the
same time and save £4 on each)
From Spring 1916 onwards against the backdrop of the battle of Verdun
- ‘the Meatgrinder on the Meuse’- Kitchener’s New Army divisions were
arriving in France for the Anglo-French offensive on the River Somme.
Hopes were high for a break through the German defences. The course
will consider in detail the preparations for the battle and how it
developed over the summer months. Tutor: Mike Shaw
Let there be light… and there was light
JUNE
Tuesday 28 June
Fee: £50
Light is essential for life and growth, so during this creative writing day
we shall compare mankind's early belief in its origin with today's theory
of the Big Bang. We also use light to describe insight, spirtual revelation
and the search for knowledge. We shall use music, study and paintings
of light in all its moods as stimuli for writing.
Tutor: Elizabeth Rapp
An Introduction to Russian Language and Culture
Tuesday 28 June
Fee: £50
Russian is a Slavik language. It is becoming an increasingly popular
language to learn in Western countries these days since the end of the
Cold War and an interest in Russian culture. The course will help you
learn the Cyrillic Russian alphabet and its origins. You will learn basics
of writing, reading and common phrases. The course will cover some
Russian cultural aspects such as customs, traditions, public holidays,
relationships and a little insight into the Russian mentality. All-comers
welcome. Tutor: Elena Maughan
The Making of a Myth: King Arthur, Joseph of Arimathea &
Glastonbury
Wednesday 29 June
Fee: £50
An exploration of the origins of the legends about "the matter of Britain" the collection of medieval myths and legends associated with King
Arthur and the origins of Christianity in Britain, some of which are
associated with the west country. We look at any historical foundation of
such myths together with their development and elaboration over the
centuries. Tutor: Richard Henderson
72
ADVANCE BOOKING
News from the Fronts: The Kitchener Divisions and the
Battle of the Somme
The Language of Drawing
Tuesday 5 July
Fee: £50
From the caves at Lascaux to the plans for the Large Hadron Collider
at CERN, so much human endeavour begins with drawing. As
children, when we pick up a crayon and draw, we discover a
liberating and potent way to describe the world around us. Drawing
is our first language with which we communicate our fantasies, our
loves and fears, but over the years, something happens to persuade
most of us that it is no longer of any value and we cease to make
room for it in our lives. This one day course takes as its starting point
John Ruskin's idea that while we may never become great artists,
we can become more appreciative, reflective of and intimate with
our world through drawing. You will learn how to visually assess
your subject, measure, use proportion, work with tone and begin
to develop the confident drawing style you've always wanted.
Tutor: David Chandler
Bobbin Lacemaking – British and European
Tea Sunday 10 – Breakfast Friday 15 July
Fees (£): s 534 t 453 l 502 n 420 H 420 u 270
This is a practical course for all abilities of lacemakers from those
who have a knowledge of only the basic stitches to those who wish to
study advanced techniques in the British and European laces. Many
of the continental laces are taught with the aid of a colour-coded
diagram to help students continue their work at home. Time will be
given to relating threads to patterns and finishing and mounting lace.
A reduced fee is available for those wishing to attend this course until
lunchtime on the Sunday only – for details please contact the
Bookings Office or see our website. Tutor: Patricia Bury
Bookings & Enquiries 01460 258613
[email protected]
www.dillington.com
GIFT VOUCHERS
For a thoughtful and original present, treat
someone to a Dillington gift voucher. Available
in various amounts. Contact the Bookings
Office on 01460 258613 or
email [email protected] for full details.
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
FOR RESIDENTIAL
WEEKEND COURSES
Dillington House has a bursary scheme to assist those on
very low incomes. If you qualify, instead of the advertised
fee you can attend a weekend course for £50. Please
note however that some courses are excluded from this
scheme or require an extra supplement.
The concession is only available to residents of Somerset,
East Devon and West Dorset and is offered
on a first-come first-served basis. Places are obviously
subject to availability.
For more details contact the
Bookings Office on 01460 258613
or email [email protected].
73
YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED
WHERE CAN I GET MORE INFORMATION?...
We hope you find all the information you need in this programme, but if you
have any further queries please contact the Bookings Office on 01460 258613
or visit our website www.dillington.com. Once you have made a booking we
will email your booking confirmation to you. This will be followed by a course
timetable, a ‘what to bring list’ and some general information.
HOW DO I MAKE A BOOKING?...
If you wish to pay by Credit/Debit Card please ring the Bookings Office with your
booking request and your payment details – 01460 258613. The office is open
Monday to Friday, 9.00am to 4.30pm and on Saturdays when Adult Education
courses are taking place. If you wish to pay by cheque please complete the
booking form and return with your cheque to the address on the booking form.
Please make cheques payable to Somerset County Council.
WHAT ACCOMMODATION IS AVAILABLE?...
Dillington House offers a range of en-suite accommodation across three
buildings; the House, the Mews and The Hyde. Superior bedrooms provide
more space with a few extra touches and all of the bedrooms in The Hyde are
superior and fully accessible. Against each residential course you will find a
series of symbols and prices, which give the fees per person, relating to the
different grades of rooms and occupancy.
s
Superior en-suite double/twin room single occupancy
t
Superior en-suite double/twin room shared occupancy
l
Small en-suite double/twin room single occupancy
n
Small en-suite double/twin room shared occupancy
H
Single en-suite room
Non-residential fee
u
:
Weekend Plus (includes supper on
Sunday evening plus bed & breakfast – subject to availability)
2
Please note that rooms are allocated on a first-come first-served basis. Early
booking is recommended if you have any special requirements.
WHAT DO I GET FOR MY MONEY?...
Fees quoted are per person unless stated otherwise.
The residential fee includes tuition, full board and accommodation plus travel
and admission for field trips where applicable, unless stated otherwise.
The non-residential fee includes tuition, lunch, dinner and refreshments plus
travel and admission for field trips where applicable, unless stated otherwise.
The day course fee includes tuition, lunch and refreshments plus travel and
admission for field trips where applicable, unless stated otherwise.
VAT is included where applicable. VAT is not charged on our course fees,
however Dillington House reserves the right to vary other charges as necessary.
74
Students are generally responsible for providing their own materials and
individual items of equipment especially on practical courses. If there are any
additional costs, they will be shown on the course information sheet. If the tutor
is able to provide materials or equipment, this will also be shown. Please note:
Dillington House reserves the right to vary the course programme or substitute
a tutor should it be deemed necessary for whatever reason.
WHAT DO I PAY AND WHAT IF I NEED TO CANCEL?...
Residential Courses - a deposit is required when booking all residential
courses. The balance of your fee will be due four weeks prior to the course
start date, unless stated otherwise. After this date you will be liable for the
full course fee.
Day Courses, Concerts, Lectures, Events, Pre-booked Meals and Additional
Stays are payable in full on booking. Cheques should be made payable to
Somerset County Council.
Payments are non-refundable and cannot be transferred to another course or
event. If you cannot attend then you can nominate a substitute at no further
cost. We recommend that you take out your own insurance in case you have
to cancel through illness or unforeseen circumstances.
In the event of Dillington holding a waiting list for places on a course we will
attempt to replace your booking. If we are successful, a refund will be
calculated based on the difference between your fee and the fee of the
replacement booking, which may not be the same.
CAN I BRING A PARTNER OR FRIEND?...
We are happy to accommodate partners or friends who are not attending a
course. Likewise, if you wish to stay at Dillington in order to undertake private
study, we will do our best to accommodate you. Please contact the Bookings
Office for availability and costs - 01460 258613, email
[email protected].
CAN I GET TO DILLINGTON ON
PUBLIC TRANSPORT?...
The nearest railway stations are Crewkerne and Taunton. Taxis to Dillington cost
£20-£30 one way, however shared taxis for weekend courses can be booked
in advance - details will be sent to you on booking. Berrys Coaches
www.berryscoaches.co.uk, tel. 01823 331356 run regular express services from
London to Ilminster.
WHAT IF MY COURSE IS CANCELLED?...
Dillington House reserves the right to cancel a course for whatever reason but
where this happens we will endeavour to give as much notice as possible. In
the event of a cancelled course your fee and your deposit will be refunded.
FACILITIES FOR THE DISABLED?...
We have 16 fully accessible en-suite double bedrooms available, mostly in The
Hyde. Most lecture rooms have induction loops, and information can be
provided in other formats for those with a visual impairment. Personal
assistants to disabled people can attend a residential course with a fee
reduction of 20%. Please contact the Bookings Office to discuss your needs 01460 258613, email [email protected].
CHANGES?...
Every effort is made to ensure that the courses run as described. However,
we can take no responsibility for consequential losses should, in exceptional
circumstances, any arrangements need to be changed for any reason.
Bookings & Enquiries 01460 258613
[email protected]
www.dillington.com
INDEX
SUBJECT
Archeaology
TUTOR
Dr Nick Snashall
Dr Peter Stanier
PAGE
54
7, 31, 61, 68
Art History
Jan D.Cox
Jennifer Spiers
Julian Halsby
Trish Jones
Wayne Bennett
19, 21,26, 27, 28
11, 30, 45
39
43, 44
16, 17, 24, 41, 52, 63
Art History - Architecture Mark Powell
Mike Hope
Art Practical
Book Club
Philip Wilkinson
Trish Jones
Wayne Bennett
32, 49
16, 17, 19, 20, 23, 26,
42, 47, 63, 70
12, 37, 63
43, 44
24
Angie Blackwell
Clare DuVergier
David Chandler
David Cuthbert
John Farmelo
Kaili Fu
Shari Hills
Simon Williams
Stella Murray Whatley
Susan Hillier
36, 49, 58
16, 23, 41, 45
12, 34, 53, 72
36, 61
19, 20, 25, 67
54
7, 49
38, 70
12, 42, 69
10, 33, 62
Elizabeth Rapp
9
Classical Guitar Festival
TUTOR
Liz Trebble
Mark Coray
Patricia Bury
Paul Johnson
Rebecca Board
Sarah Jarrett-Kerr
Tamsyn Simmonds
PAGE
64
19, 20, 25
32, 72
28
38, 51
44, 71
8, 11
Creative Writing
Elizabeth Rapp
13, 32
Culture
Adam D'Souza
16, 18, 19, 21, 24, 25,
26, 27, 28
36, 65, 66
43, 44, 64
16, 18, 19, 20, 24, 25,
26, 27, 43, 56, 58
9, 72
49, 65
16, 17, 19, 21, 24, 25,
26, 27, 28, 42
Brian Anderson
Bridgett Vane
Chris Pollard
Elena Maughan
Roger Priest
Wayne Bennett
Culture - Law
Sarah Izzett
44
Culture - Religion
Sister Elizabeth Rees
36, 46, 55
Dancing
Argyll
30
Dillington
September in Somerset
Summer School Wk1
Summer School Wk2
Taunton Thespians
28
16
19
11
Family History
Jane Ferentzi-Sheppard 10, 42, 62, 69
Jane Taubman
31, 45, 71
Field Trip
David Hunt
Roy Osborne
Wayne Bennett
14
Computer
Siobhan Allen
12, 33, 51
Computer - Art
David Chandler
34
Concert
Craft
SUBJECT
13, 14, 29, 33, 39,
46, 53, 57, 60, 69
Angela Sutton
Annette Bolton
Clare Clensy
Jenni Cadman
Jenny Harrison
Jonathan Korejko
40, 61
32, 59, 71
39, 52
28, 65
10, 35, 43, 62
33, 68
9, 31, 55
13
16, 17, 19, 21, 24, 25,
26, 27, 28, 41, 42, 52,
63
CONT...
75
s Sup ens sing occ t Sup ens dbl occ l Dbl ens sing occ n Dbl ens H Sing ens u Non res : Weekend Plus
INDEX
SUBJECT
TUTOR
PAGE
SUBJECT
TUTOR
PAGE
34, 35, 37, 40, 41, 47,
53, 56, 59, 63
Military History
Dr Mark Baldwin
Mike Shaw
Music Appreciation
Al Summers
Andrew Borkowski
Chris Howes
Chris Pollard
Colin Booth &
Steven Divine
Eric Wetherell
Gwyn Parry-Jones
Mike Denham
Roderick Swanston
Terry Barfoot
60
30, 62
29, 62
45
8, 35, 36, 52, 63
40, 46, 54, 68
Wayne Bennett
67
40, 51, 58
7, 53, 63, 65
7, 31, 61, 68
43, 56
10, 34, 35, 54, 63
10, 37, 62
12, 37, 63
10, 41, 67, 72
16, 17, 19, 20, 23, 24,
26, 27, 40, 63, 64
24
52
27, 29, 32, 38, 44, 58,
68, 72
31, 35, 49, 52, 67
38, 54
12, 59, 63
24
History - Egyptology
Lucia Gahlin
7, 40, 51, 56, 63, 67
Languages
Birgit Piegeler-Hughes
Chris Pollard
Donatella Zuffa
Elena Maughan
Roger Priest
35, 52
20
13
9, 72
49, 65
Al Summers
& Ray Bradfield
Argyll
Helen Hooker
Peter Rueffer
Sally Vaughan
35, 52, 67
30
70
13, 54
9, 45, 51, 64, 71
OU Course
Dr John Kirkaldy
Dr Lynda Morgan
61
67, 69
Photography
Nigel Troake
32, 39
Singing
Ann Evans
Faith Watson
Jo Sercombe
8, 41, 64
30
29, 43, 61, 71
Friday Friends
History
Dr Andrew Lacey
Dr Leslie Hoose
Dr Paul McDonald
Dr Peter Stanier
Edward Towne
Mark Cottle
Nick Griffiths
Philip Wilkinson
Richard Henderson
Tim Porter
Music Practical
Lecture
Lifestyle
Literature
76
36, 46, 51, 55, 65, 66
Ann Evans
Dr Xuzhuang Li
Hilary Armstrong
Jenny Webb
Jerry Nightingale
Lesley Watson
Patrick Harries
Tim Moorey
Titch Glenday
8, 41, 64
60
13, 51, 70
39, 54, 64
8
7
36, 55
43
37, 45
Elizabeth Rapp
Jane Crozier
Joan Wiles
Liz Merry
Trudy Hillier
Woody River
9, 13, 32, 45, 61, 72
67
35, 55
11, 27
34, 70
45
Study Tour
58
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On receipt of your booking an email booking confirmation will be sent to you.
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whether you require Single or Shared Occupancy, Superior or non-Superior, Twin or Double Room.
*Please state
A non-refundable deposit of £50 is required for all residential courses per person/per course.
Day Courses, Concerts, Lectures, Events, Pre-booked Meals and Additional Stays are payable in full when booking.
If you wish to pay by Credit/Debit Card there is no need to complete the booking form please ring the Bookings
Office with your booking request and your payment details – 01460 258613
If you wish to pay by cheque please complete the booking form and send with your cheque to the address below.
Please make cheques payable to Somerset County Council.
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You are invited to give any information (age, medical condition, disability etc.) which will help us in the allocation of
bedrooms and in making other arrangements.
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The first time you book a course you will be asked if you want to go on
our mailing list to receive future programmes and, unless you indicate
otherwise, to also receive details in connection with future courses and
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