Hush now child...

After the previous blog post about thinking of a different way to approach teaching in the UK, which was stimulated by various conversations up at Rochester, I have discussed it with a few people and decided to set up some more intensive sessions designed to improve the level of those who want it.  I was told to pull my finger out of my ass and step up a little, something which I know I need to do.  Somebody told me something recently to do with fish as well which was advice well heeded.

The idea is that they will be a departure from the standard workshop format and cover one topic to a great degree. I want to keep away from the word "school" as that has some negative images for some, but there will, and needs to be both a combination of practical and theoretical concepts, some of which will be potentially quite dry.  The intention is to create self sufficiency rather than dependence, so there will be a lot of focus on understanding why things are done and then how concepts can be applied in a wider context.  It would involve a level of constructive criticism and potentially tedious practice with me on your back the whole time, so it would not be for the occasional hobbyist, rather someone who wants to achieve the highest level possible.  The most valuable knowledge is that which is earned rather than given...so perhaps it's time for no more Mr. Nice Guy.

It would be over a weekend and based either up at Willowbog, Leeds, Derby or somewhere in the south (possibly Saruyama HQ) depending on the uptake and geography of students, who would be limited to four in order to maximise the time.

This will only work if there is demand for it, and for a format that people want, so in the interest of democracy (a terribly flawed concept), the options are

Species specific would cover one species in detail at three times a year, repotting, pruning and wiring.
In depth technique would cover one technique and how it can be applied to a range of species.

Now, I don't want this to be seen as me thinking I am too good for doing the standard workshops, or that I have no interest in the "occasional hobbyist", nothing could be further from the truth.  I just think that the current model needs a little expanding to take in those people who don't attend workshops for whatever reason.  Any ideas, criticisms or suggestions gratefully received.

If there is no interest then I will get my coat...

But...for those that are interested then...enter the steeple of beautiful people, for there is only one kind...

My thanks to Mr. Invernizzi for the aural inspiration today...I suggest listening to the full track for one of the greatest ever funk soul tunes ever.