Annual Gathering, Launde 1998
Neil Corbett, Nonsuch Club's Newsletter Editor

We did it again! I don't know how the Annual weekend gets to stay so good, but this year was one of the best we've had. Once again the ancient rafters of Launde Abbey rang deep into the early hours, and the warm and friendly atmosphere was evident for all to enjoy.

Sessions were too many to list here, but there was beginner and advanced stuff for both types dulcimer as well as special features on early music, advice on arrangements and so on. Tutors worked hard as usual and we all came away with new skills and Knowledge, but for most of us it's the friendships that make the weekend so special.

For a special treat, Geoff Smith did a solo Saturday afternoon concert, and once again blew us away with his amazing technique. Having got his masters degree in composition, Geoff is now setting his sights on a PhD, and planning that the hammered dulcimer should be at the centre of it, so maybe we'll have our first `Doctor Dulcimer' in a few years.

As usual the Saturday night concert showed the depth of talent in the club, as well as the awfulness of the jokes. (As Neil was the compere it has to be said that most of the bad jokes were mostly his. Kath).

Some people actually played dulcimers, but by now people know they don't have to, so we enjoyed singing, clog dancing, autoharp and more besides. I couldn't possibly list all the participants, sufficient to say they were many and varied - and all excellent. As usual we ran well over time and Maclaine Colston and Saul Rose took the final spot with a refreshing and good humoured set at some time approaching midnight.

At that point most audiences would have wandered home feeling satisfied, but this is Nonsuch! In ten minutes, we were back in the main entrance hall for a jam session that went on until well after 3am. I'm amazed the Launde staff don't complain, but they were still smiling at Sunday breakfast, and we're allowed back next year! Perhaps they have ear plugs.

So, it's back to Launde in next year, but this time in mid September. Maybe we'll get to play out in the lovely gardens. Make sure you're there.