The Workshop band is having a busy summer and since being seen at the Paul Hart Memorial concert they have also played at the Sturminster show and now have 3 invitations to play at local music festivals. We are always looking for new members for this band, which is composed entirely of Music Workshop members.

So this month the band will be running through it's set list and inviting anybody who wants to play, to join in and maybe come along to the extra rehearsals we hold between workshop dates.

If you enjoy music, whether its playing or listening, come on down to the Exchange on the 3rd Monday and join in with the ever growing crowd of local musicians who enjoy playing and learning together. We always manage to fit a good old blues jam in somewhere during the evening and we always welcome new players and different instruments too.

As the Summer winds to an end, we will be hoping to arrange some guest musicians to give us the benefit of their experience. If you have any suggestions for workshop ideas please let us know on the night or go onto the Workshop message board - you can find the link below.
Venue Bow Room, The Exchange, Sturminster Newton

7.30 for 8.00 pm

Don't forget, you don't have to play or sing, you can just come along and watch and enjoy a drink in the bar.

We have started a message board so you can register and post your thoughts and anything you want to share. When you get to the Myfreeforum site just click the "Join" button on the right hand side at the top.

These are evenings that were instigated, inspired and largely run by Paul. After Paul's death on May 10th 2008 we were all uncertain if the many things he did, including the jam sessions, could continue. Paul had already booked Victor Brox to appear at the workshop on Monday 12th May. When I told Victor that Paul had died he made it clear that he was determined to come and perform in memory of Paul. His enthusiasm encouraged us to ensure that what Paul had done should continue so the Paul Hart Foundation was established to ensure their continuation.

The Jam Sessions and Music Workshops, where all are welcome to play, watch and most of all enjoy the creation of Blues and other Music, will continue into the future.

There is always a piano available to play and usually people are happy to let others use their amps. etc so if you just have a guitar and no kit don't let that put you off. If you play the digeridoo or french horn you are still welcome as is any other instrument. The Jam sessions are for young and old, the experienced or beginners to come together and learn about the music whilst helping each other to get the most out of its performance on all levels.

Already this year we have had the pleasure of welcoming the great Blues harmonica player and singer Johnny Mars who lead us in an outstanding session. Victor Brox gave us his historical perspective and some terrific songs as well as helping us to bid farewell to our founder and friend Paul Hart.

We will continue to have other talented musicians leading us for sessions which will focus on the many different aspects of the Blues and other musical forms.

Bring an instrument or just come and watch we'd love to see you! There is usually a bar available too.

A small charge usually of between £3.00 and £6.00 is made to cover costs depending on whether there is a paid performance.

If you have a piece or pieces of music you want to play - not just blues but any musical form that interests you - e-mail us and it will be posted here. It will give people a chance to look it up for themselves and bring it with them if necessary.

This really is a sharing group and you will be impressed with how inclusive it is. There is always a jam with as many people, as want to be, involved.