Courses starting Autumn 2008

COURSES STARTING AUTUMN 2008

(ACM) Charles Rennie Mackintosh: Life and Works

This will be an in-depth study of the life and work of this great Scottish architect. It will include slide presentations of his work.

Leader: Michael Savage [600521]
7 Thursday afternoons fortnightly, 2.15pm to 3.45pm, starting 25 September Middleton Room, Christ Church, The Grove, Ilkley Fee: £15

 

(ARC) Architecture and Bridges

These sessions will be new presentations looking at the development of Architecture internationally from the early 20th Century to the present day. There will also be an introduction to the development of bridges over the ages.

Leader: Alan East [603434]
Fortnightly on Thursdays, 10.30 am till noon, starting 25 September Soroptomists’ Room, Clarke Foley Centre, Cunliffe Road, Ilkley Fee: £9

 

(CGD) Gardens Group

This is a group to visit gardens or to garden-related interests. Transport will be by sharing cars Venues will be agreed at the first meeting.

Leader: Pat Asquith [875572]
Monthly meetings on Thursdays, 2pm to 4 or 5pm, depending on the visit, starting 11 September Those who apply for these visits will be notified of the first venue. No Fee

 

(CKC) Knitting for Christmas

Home-made presents go down very well with descendents: jolly socks, simple scarves, imaginative tea and coffee cosies and snug mittens. Beginner, intermediate and advanced knitters are welcome for five Monday afternoons in the autumn.

Leader: Caroline Moseley [608836]
Mondays, five sessions starting on 29 September at 2pm. Further dates and times to be agreed at first session at Create Workshop in the Victoria Arcade on 29 September. Other sessions at the Leader’s house: 3 Marlborough Square, Ilkley. Fee: £9

 

(DFC) Film Club

We’ll start with a six-film session by the American ‘populist’ director, Frank Capra, including ‘It Happened One Night’, ‘Lost Horizon’, ‘Mr Deeds Goes to Town’ and the perennial Christmas favourite ‘It’s A Wonderful Life’. Stars include Gable, Colbert, Colman, Stewart, Cooper and Jean Arthur. After Christmas we’ll be sampling six Powell and Pressburger British classics such as ‘A Matter of Life and Death’, ‘The Red Shoes’, ‘The Life and Death of Colonel Blimp’ and lesser-known works such as ‘I Know Where I’m Going’. All films chosen have 4/5 star ratings in ‘Radio Times’ Film Guide.

Leader; Mike Johnson [607566]
Fortnightly on Fridays from 2pm to 4.30pm, starting 3 October and continuing 16 January St Margaret’s Church Hall, Queens Road, Ilkley Fee: £9

 

(DHB) Highlights 3: State of the Nation British Drama since 1945

The plays, considered by Michael Billington in his recent book with the above title, in different ways are all about ‘the interplay between theatre and society from the resurgent optimism of the Attlee years to the satire boom of the sixties through to the growth of political theatre under Blair’. The programme will involve seeing complete dvds at some sessions or excerpts of plays at others with discussion and some attention to texts. The work of dramatists such as Rattigan, Osborne, Arden, Orton, Wesker, Beyond the Fringe, Barnes, Leigh, Bond, Pinter, Hare, Churchill and Ayckbourn will be experienced. Sessions will consider recent features such as In-Yer-Face theatre of the 90s and new British playwrights of the last 8 years whose work has been produced at the Almeida, the Bush, the National and the Royal Court theatres. British drama also includes TV and film and ‘state of the nation’ drama in these media will be considered. There will also be links with the Plays & Theatres group for those wishing to see some of these plays if included in the programme of theatres in the region.

Leader: David Morton [607826]
24 sessions: Wednesdays 1.30pm to 4pm starting 10 September and continuing on 7 January St Margaret’s Church Hall, Queens Road, Ilkley Fee: £15

 

(DPT) Plays & Theatres

Visits will be arranged to different theatres in the region and a variety of plays. Last year’s visits included ‘Brief Encounter’, ‘Romeo and Juliet’, ‘Equus’ and ‘Rough Crossings’. Bookings will normally be for matinee performances and members will travel independently by public transport, although a coach will be used if going to more distant theatres. There is no need to commit to every visit. There will be an introduction and discussion about each play and a followup sharing of responses at the following meeting. Ticket prices average at about £12. When appropriate, this group will link with the DHB group [see above].

Leader: David Morton [607826]
4 sessions monthly in the autumn and 4 in the spring on Wednesdays 1.30 to 3.30 starting 10 September and continuing on 7 January. St Margaret’s Church Hall, Queens Road, Ilkley Fee: £9

 

(DT1,DT2,DT3) Two-Full Day Play Text Workshops

A group of three, new, separate drama courses that will examine how the printed text is used as a blueprint for dramatic action. The sessions will have the feel of rehearsal in some detail even though there will not be performances to an audience. Membership for each two days will be limited to 16 so that members can be fully involved in practical work; participants will be expected to attend for the full two days to allow for continuity and development.

Leader David Morton [607286]

(DT1) Shakespeare in Action

Though not exclusively, this will focus on 'Hamlet’ and the challenge of playing Lady Macbeth.

Monday/Tuesday 29 and 30 September at St John’s Church Lounge, Ben Rhydding. Arrangements will be agreed for lunch each day. Times: 0930 am till 4pm each day Fee: £9

(DT2) : Chekov / Ibsen

Naturalism / belief / Stanislavski / realism with reference to ‘The Cherry Orchard’ and ‘A Doll’s House’.

Thursday/Friday 26 and 27 March at St Mary’s Parish Centre, Burley-in- Wharfedale. Fee: £9

(DT3): A new play

Not yet written, probably premiered at the Royal Court,London and performed to a high level of critical acclaim.

Tuesday/Wednesday 12 and 13 May at St John’s Church Lounge, Ben Rhydding Details in next newsletter.

 

(DW1,DW2,DW3) Drama Workshops

Using conventions of drama and theatre practice, improvisation and work on established and new texts, these sessions give participants the opportunity to engage actively with theatre, playwrights and their place in reflecting society past and present. Sessions, therefore, will involve acting: taking roles and becoming characters. The leader will ensure that members feel secure during the activities. Participants may enrol for all three workshops as the material used will not be repeated.

Leader: David Morton [607826]
DW1 10 Thursdays, 10 am till noon, commencing 11 September at St John’s Church Lounge,Ben Rhydding Fee: £15
DW2 10 Thursdays, 10am till noon, commencing 8 January at St John’s Church Lounge, Ben Rhydding Fee: £15
DW3 10 Thursdays, 10 am till noon, commencing 23 April at St Mary’s Parish Centre, Burley-in-Wharfedale Details in next newsletter

 

(EEX) Exploring English

Sessions start with an introduction to the history and development of English: why do we have ‘recreation’ and ‘re-creation’ with different meanings? Why both ‘marriage’ and ‘wedding’? Why is there a ‘b’ in ‘debt’? We will look at place-names and surnames. In the second part of the session we may watch a video or work together to decode old texts or compile lists of interesting words.

Leader: Ann Johnson [607566]
Mondays, 6 sessions fortnightly, 2pm to 4pm, starting 12 January Dales Room, Christ Church, The Grove, Ilkley. Fee: £9

 

(EPE) Poetry Exchange

This is for those who love poetry. Here’s a chance to share your favourites and to discover new poems and new poets. Each member will bring along a poem or two to read to the rest of the group. Sometimes we may discuss a poem, sometimes just sit back and savour it!

Leaders: Jenny with John Dixon [600132]
Fortnightly, from 2pm to 4pm on Tuesday afternoons for 6 sessions starting 30 September.Held at 12 Manor Rise, Ben Rhydding. Fee: £9

 

(ER1,ER2) Readers' Groups 1 and 2

Each group meets fortnightly on alternate Tuesdays to discuss both modern and classical books. Members are asked to nominate books and may lead a discussion should they be prepared to do so.

Leader Group 1: Dawn Burton [602918]
This group will meet on Tuesdays from 2pm to 4pm for 5 sessions starting on 14 October and continuing for 7 sessions starting on13 January.
Leader group 2: Doreen Anderson [01274 563736]
This group will meet on alternate Tuesdays from 2pm to 4pm for 5 sessions starting on 7 October and continuing for 7 sessions starting on 6 January. Both groups meet at Interview Room, Abbeyfield, Riddings Road, Ilkley Fee: £9

 

(FCI) Cooking to Inspire

This is a demonstration cookery course for those who need inspiring to try new/interesting/exciting dishes to cook. Ideally, the programme will evolve from suggestions raised by participants [such as: ‘What can I give a vegetarian?’ or ‘Suggest an easy starter for a dinner party’]. The level of the course will be adapted to suit the skill level of participants.

Leader: Hilary Barrett [609316]
6 Thursday agreed morning sessions 1030am to 1230 pm, starting in November [applicants will be contacted with start date] Held at 3 Moorlands, Ilkley Fee: £9

 

(FD1)Diners, Sunday

This is a popular social group in which members choose different venues for convivial lunchtimes.. Each member takes it in turn to organise a location and make bookings. Other members MUST call the organising member by the preceding Wednesday to reserve their places.

Leader: Anne Wilson [607706]
We meet monthly on the first Sunday, starting on 7 September. No Fee

 

(FD1)Diners, Saturday

We meet for lunch at venues selected by members of the group.

Leader: Barbara Pullin [01274 551451]
12 monthly meetings on the second Saturday, starting 13 September. No Fee

 

(FLC)Aiming for Lower Cholesterol

Continuing to provide ideas for making low cholesterol cooking interesting without being a diet bore but whilst still keeping aware of healthy eating. This is an ‘ideas’ course, not a practical cooking course.

Leader: Ann Holdsworth
Weekly on Wednesdays, 2pm to 4pm for six sessions, starting in March. Sign up now, but dates will be announced in the November Newsletter. Held at 2 High Springs, Owler Park Road, Ilkley Fee: £9

 

(FSU)Sunday Afternoon Tea

Visit a friend for a cup of tea and conversation on quiet Sundays.

Leader: Judith Shilling [602377]
Meeting monthly or more often if the group wishes, starting 21 September. Fee: £9

 

(FW1) Wine Circle

This group meets around once a month throughout the year. Each member takes responsibility for deciding a venue and purchasing the wine for a tasting session. Members pay £5 per session to pay for the wine.

Leader: Ian Barrett [609316]
Monthly Thursday evenings at 7.30pm, starting 11 September. Meetings are held mainly in the homes of members of the Circle Fee: £9

 

(GBI) Bridge Improvers

These sessions are designed to lead to continuing improvement in all aspects of Acol bridge. The small class and intimate venue ensure that good progress is made as all queries that can arise can be addressed on an individual basis, with the whole group gaining the benefit. The sessions are suitable for those wishing to progress from their prior knowledge but also for beginners who have obtained the basics at other courses.

Leader: John Williams [603899]
Weekly on Fridays 2pm to 4.30pm, starting on 19 September for 10 sessions, with a further 10 sessions beginning on 9 January. Held at 11 Westwood Rise, Ilkley. Fee: £9

 

(GBP) Bridge Practice Acol

These sessions provide an opportunity for players with some experience to practise and consolidate their bridge skills, without expert tuition.

Leader: Bob Barker [877320]
Weekly on Fridays, 10pm to 1230pm, starting 19 September for 12 sessions and continuing on 9 January for 12 sessions. Olicana Bridge Club, Wells Road, Ilkley Fee: £15

 

(GC1) Cryptic Crosswords - an Introduction

Further improving your cryptic crossword solving. This course is for those who have gained useful knowledge of solving cryptic crosswords, but is definitely not suitable for beginners.

Leader: Bernard Wilson [600235]
A small group meeting fortnightly from 10am till 1130 starting on 24 September for 6 sessions and continuing on 14 January for 6 sessions. At: the Barn, Cowpasture Road, Ilkley Fee: £9

 

(GC2) Compiling Crosswords

Enjoy doing crosswords? Ever thought about how crosswords are compiled? Join this group and enjoy the challenge of compiling all types of crossword.

Leader: Tony Cracknell [430775]
Meeting fortnightly from 10am till 12 noon starting on 24 September for 6 sessions and continuing on 14 January for 6 sessions. Held at 5 Woodlands Close. Ilkley, courtesy of Malcolm and Pam Harris Fee: £9

 

(GCQ) Croquet

We play association and golf croquet and beginners are welcome. Expert tuition in the rules of croquet and coaching by a Grade 1 Croquet Association coach is provided to help develop our skill and technique. There will be opportunities to play against and visit other croquet clubs: Ripon, Dales at Akebar, Pendle and Craven at Earby, also to attend national and regional tournaments and enter competitions in Yorkshire and Lancashire.

Leader: Richard Lorimer (603561)
Weekly sessions on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays 11am – 4pm Burley-in-Wharfedale Cricket Club, Grange Road, Burley-in-Wharfedale The Summer croquet sessions for 2009 will be advertised in the March newsletter.

 

(GMJ) Mahjong

These sessions provide an opportunity for existing and new members to hone their skills in this fascinating game.

Leader: Dawn Speer[609837]
Weekly, Thursdays, 2pm to 4pm, starting 18 September Held at 14 The Lutyens, Grove Road, Ilkley, courtesy of Pat and David Feather Fee: £9

(GSC) Scrabble

The group teaches Scrabble to beginners and those who wish to refresh their knowledge of the game. The aim is to develop skills and scoring abilities in a relaxed and friendly environment.

Leader: Glenn Yardley [830032]
Wednesday afternoons, 1.30pm to 4pm starting 17 September and continuing 7 January. There will also be sessions during the summer. Games Room, Clarke Foley Centre, Cunliffe Road, Ilkley Fee:£30

 

(GTM,GTT,GTF) Table Tennis: Monday,Tuesday,Friday

Table tennis is an excellent activity that stimulates the mind, improves handeye coordination and develops physical agility. Come and join one, two or all of our three groups. Exercise with fun! All standards are welcome, including beginners. Some coaching is available if requested. Equipment is supplied, but a contribution may be requested to pay for new balls.

GTM: Mondays
Leader: Anne Walker [462958]
Weekly, starting 22 September for 12 sessions and continuing 12 January. 10am to noon. Games Room, Clarke Foley Centre, Cunliffe Road , Ilkley Fee: £30
GTT: Tuesdays
Leader: John Matthews-Lane [01274 564749]
Weekly, starting 16 September for 12 sessions and continuing 13 January. 2pm to 4pm. Activities Room, Grove House, Abbeyfield, Riddings Road, Ilkley Fee: £22
GTF: Fridays
Leader: Mary Barton [863671]
Weekly, starting 19 September for 12 sessions and continuing 9 January. 10am to noon. Activities Room, Grove House, Abbeyfield, Riddings Road, Ilkley Fee: £22

 

(HAY) Archaeology

This course is about questing for knowledge of our human past. It will include reading the signs of past activity in the local and national landscape, and understanding the techniques and terminology of archaeological investigations and dating methods.

Leader: Bill Godfrey [602526]
12 fortnightly sessions over autumn and spring on Thursdays, 2pm to 4pm, beginning 25 September and continuing 8 January Green Room, Christ Church, The Grove, Ilkley Fee: £9

 

(HFH) Family History

This a course for beginners. It will introduce methods of used to research your family history. Methods include birth, marriage and death certificates; census records; parish registers and so on. There will be demonstrations of Internet use during sessions. Guidance will be given on where to search for information and how to record it.

Leader: Michael Elsmore [01535 655795]
6 monthly sessions on Thursdays, 2pm to 4 pm, starting 25 September St Mary’s Parish Centre, Station Road, Burley-in-Wharfedale Fee: £9

 

(HLH) Investigating Local History III

This is the final part of the previous two courses, to bring the ‘Wharfedale Story’ from c1851 up to 1919: that is, the effects of WW1 on broadly the Wharfedale. area To succeed the course must be inter-active and all participants will be expected to contribute either a half or a full session on one local topic. The leader does not have all local knowledge at his disposal. We will cover technical and geographical developments in textiles and mining; transport links [canals, railways, turnpikes into A and B roads]; changes in society; trade union and political movements including the Labour Party and the Suffragettes; improvements in housing, sanitation and leisure time. Group members will have further ideas.

Leader: Robin Leleux
9 sessions weekly on Tuesdays, 10am to noon, starting 23 September [ no session on 21 Oct] Fellowship Room, Christ Church, The Grove, Ilkley Fee: £9

 

(IAO) After Oil? Energy Policy in the EU and UK

Following on from the discussion of different sources of energy last year, this course will examine Energy Policy in the UK and the European Union. We will consider existing policies and the issues they raise, such as greenhouse gas emissions, security of supply, varying subsidies for alternative sources and so on. New members as well as members of last year’s ‘After Oil?’ course are welcome.

Leader: Graham May [609538]
5 Wednesday fortnightly sessions from 10 am until 12 noon, starting on 8 October. Dales Room, Christ Church, The Grove, Ilkley Fee: £9

 

(IEF) Enviromenmtal Forum

Meetings are used for friendly but lively discussions and to prepare presentations to members on Saturday mornings. Issues are chosen by the group that can be reported to the wider U3A membership. Transforming our economic and social activities to ones that are environmentally sustainable in the long run, are fair and also enhance our well-being is a challenge for business and government, but public discussion and individual action are vital, so do come and join us.

Leaders: Jim Butterfield [430411] and Hugh Phillips [816598]
Meeting Fridays, fortnightly, 10am to 12 noon, starting 19 September Held at 2 Heath Park, Ilkley, by courtesy of Hugh Phillips. Fee: £9

 

(KCD) Circle Dancing

Circle Dancing was originally based on European folk dances, but now includes modern choreographies to traditional folk tunes and modern music from all over the world. Many of the dances celebrate the seasons and our connection with nature. Some are energising, some slow and meditative. Dances can be modified to your physical needs. We dance for our own enjoyment, not performance. A wonderful way to have regular, gentle exercise; it can be very healing, uniting and joyful. No partner needed and no expertise. All you need is comfortable clothes and flat shoes.

Leader: Joan Peart [0113 284 2549]
Weekly on Mondays starting 15 September for 10 sessions 2pm to 4pm and continuing on 12 January for 10 sessions with breaks on 20 October and 16 February. St Margaret’s Church Hall, Queens Road, Ilkley Fee: £15

 

(KT1) Tai Chi A

Tai Chi is a Chinese martial art, now practised mainly for its health benefits. It is good for relaxation, suppleness, balance and posture: an ideal form of exercise for third agers. We will continue with the 18 Chi Kung exercises and the 24-step form and also include the Sun-style movements and other exercises

Leader: Jim Butterfield [430411]
Mondays weekly 1130am to 1pm, starting 22 September for 12 sessions, continuing 12 January for 12 sessions. St Margaret’s Church Hall, Queens Road, Ilkley Fee: £15

 

(KT2) Tai Chi Chuan 1

Exercises to loosen up all parts of the body; to promote energy and its distribution throughout the body [Chi Kung] including the Yang styles 24 forms, relaxation, stress relief and flexibility.

Leader; Maryam Jacobs [600690]
Mondays weekly 1000 to 1130, starting 22 September for 12 sessions, continuing 12 January for 12 sessions. St Margaret’s Church Hall, Queens Drive, Ilkley Fee: £15

 

(KT3) Tai Chi Chuan 2

Exercises to loosen up all parts of the body; to promote energy and its distribution throughout the body [Chi Kung] including the Yang styles 24 forms, relaxation, stress relief and flexibility.

Leader: Maryam Jacobs [600690]
Tuesdays weekly 0930 to 1100, starting 23 September for 12 sessions, continuing 12 January for 12 sessions. St Mary’s Parish Centre, Station Road, Burley-in-Wharfedale Fee :£15

 

(KWB) Watch Your Back

Improved posture, carefully chosen exercises and lifestyle changes can help prevent back and neck problems developing and can ease existing backrelated discomfort. Each session will consist of practical advice, guidelines and tips in everyday activities such as sleeping, use of car, gardening and so on.We shall provide a programme of gentle, progressive exercises, stretches and relaxation techniques aimed to improve spinal mobility, general fitness and increased muscle strength. The sessions involve mat work and participants are advised to wear unrestrictive clothing. Please bring a comfortable mat to lie on, a pillow and a large towel. This course is not for those with acute or severe back problems.

Leaders: Ann Butler [01274 568814] and Rita Leleux [01274 593235]
Tuesdays weekly, 10am to noon starting 7 October for 9 sessions with a break on 21 October.St John’s Church Lounge, Bolling Road, Ben Rhydding Fee: £9

 

(KYO) Yoga

Most people have some knowledge of the physical side, the ‘asanas’ and this was my first introduction to Yoga. Yoga means ‘united’, ‘joined’ or ‘brought together’; there are several aspects of yoga which I shall be introducing as the course proceeds. In the yoga sessions we will be covering, limbering, physical postures, some breathing and relaxation; gradually there will be some focus on concentration and meditation. I am very happy to work with students with a range of experience from complete beginners to those who have practised yoga. Yoga is non-competitive, and the value is in the journey, not the outcome.

Leader: Sarah Berkoff [874447} Qualified B.W.Y. Teacher
Tuesdays, weekly, 1100 t0 1230, starting 23rd September for 12 sessions, continuing 13 January for 12 sessions. St. Mary’s Parish Centre, Station Road, Burley in Wharfedale Fee: £15

 

(LBI) Basic Italian

This is basically a learn-at-home course reinforced by weekly workshop and practice sessions, still relying on the BBC’s course book and CD set, ‘Buongiorno Italia’, which can be ordered at any bookshop, or somewhat cheaper on line at Amazon or BBC bookshop websites. New entrants are advised to procure this a.s.a.p and to spend some time with it before our first session, following the advice set out in the introduction. Additional material for practice and home study will be provided during the course. It is impossible to overstress the need, as with all home study language courses, to be able to spend some time, preferably on a daily basis, working through units set out in the book. A language cannot be learned or improved merely by attending a weekly workshop. At some stage, depending on progress, the course will move towards an ‘improvers’ phase.

Leader: Keith Hunter [602515]
Weekly on Mondays, 2 pm to 4 pm starting on 29 September for 12 sessions and continuing on 12 January for 12 sessions. The Soroptomists’ Room, Clarke Foley Centre, Cunliffe Road, Ilkley Fee: £30

 

(LFI) French Improvers

This is essentially a learn-at-home course, with weekly workshops and practice sessions for those who have not forgotten or can quickly recover basic spoken French. Members will have completed a previous U3A or FE college beginners’ course. The main resource for home learning and practice is still the BBC’s ‘French Experience 2’ with cassettes or CDs, which can be ordered, with savings, on line at Amazon or the BBC Bookshop. Additional material will be provided during the course. Our approach means that we can accommodate members with varying levels of ability to read and speak French, so long as they are past the beginners’ stage. The minimum requirement is that members, new and continuing, should be able to find space most days to spend a little time with their text book and CDs. A language cannot be learned or improved only in weekly group sessions.

Leader: Keith Hunter [602515]
Weekly on Mondays, 10am to noon, starting on 29 September for 12 sessions and continuing on 12 January for 12 sessions. The Soroptomists’ Room, Clarke Foley Centre, Cunliffe Road, Ilkley Fee: £30

 

(LFR) Teach Ourselves French

A small, friendly group continuing from last year. The work is structured so that it is not too difficult for new members to catch up. The work is based on the books and CD of ‘Façon de Parler’ and is designed for beginners and those who have forgotten school French.

Leader: George Brewster [864166]
24 sessions weekly in autumn and spring from 1030 am until noon, starting 3 October.Held at 49 Sun Lane, Burley-in- Wharfedale Fee: £9

 

(LSP) Spanish

An ongoing Spanish course using, as a framework, the ‘Colloquial Spanish [Course 2- Intermediate]’ plus CDs, videos and workbook. The emphasis is on practical situations to enhance one’s enjoyment on holiday. Newcomers should have some knowledge of the language

Leader: Bill Horner [01274 580269]
Weekly on Fridays 10 till noon starting 12 September and continuing 9 January The Red Lion Hotel Meeting Room, Main Street, Burley-in-Wharfedale Fee: £9

 

(LUL) Understanding Latin

The course aims to develop an ability to read straight-forward Latin. A byproduct should be an understanding of how contemporary English words [both ordinary and technical] derive from Latin. The approach will be largely through the use of original text rather than grammar. We shall build on what people know through English and other languages, including any Latin learned long ago. Members will be encouraged to participate and may bring texts of their own for discussion. Previous regular members are encouraged to continue but there is room for a few new members. Before the start of the sessions proper, there will be three preliminary classes for new members starting on 5 September.

Leader: John Cockshott [601561]
Weekly on Fridays from 1030am to 1130 am, starting 26 September for 12 sessions and continuing on 16 January for 12 sessions, with a half-term break on 24 October and 19 February.Held at 41 Grove Road, Ilkley Fee: £9

 

(MAM) Another Man's Music

We will listen to music in celebration and remembrance from peace and war; medieval and modern mainly from the European tradition, music for church, salon and concert hall less often heard in public concerts. Continues into 2009. Exact dates to be agreed with participants.

Leader: David Mathieson [608025]
Weekly on Wednesdays from 2pm to 3.30pm beginning early in September. Held at 28 Wheatley Road Fee: £9

 

(MIG) Instrumental Group

For those with some familiarity [whether recent or resurrected!] with an acoustic instrument such as guitar, melodica, recorder, flute, fiddle, whistle and others or be willing to play percussion. The group learns simple folk tunes to play together for fun and possibly to accompany circle dancing from time to time. Please contact the leader for more details if you wish.

Leader: Sarah Goodwin [01274 770832]
Weekly on Mondays, 2pm - starting on 15 September for 10 sessions and continues on 12 January for 10 sessions. Held at: 18 Belmont Road, Ilkley. courtesy of Judith Shilling. Fee: £9

 

(MOC) Opera by Coach
(MOO) Occasional Opera

These groups are fully subscribed. To join for the 2009-2010 season members should respond to details that will be given in the March Newsletter 2009.

 

(MST) Singing Together

This course is all about singing for pleasure in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. We will continue to revise and add to our extensive repertoire of traditional songs and ballads of the British Isles, folksongs from other lands and more modern part songs. There will be a chance to listen to the story behind the song and hear how professional singers perform them. If you are joining for the first time, please state if you sing soprano, alto, tenor or bass.

Leader: Honor Farrell [607157]
Meeting fortnightly on Thursdays from 2pm till 3.30 pm, starting on 18 September and continuing in January.Activities Room, Grove House, Abbeyfield, Riddings Road, Ilkley Fee: £9

 

(PSK) St Kilda - History & Life

This course will be the general history and life of the St Kilda community on the remote archipelago up to its evacuation in August 1930. Slides will be used to illustrate the sessions.

Leader: Michael Savage[600521]
6 Thursday afternoon sessions, fortnightly, from 2.15pm to 3.45pm, starting 2 October, Middleton Room, Christ Church, The Grove, Ilkley Fee: £9

 

(PTG) Travel Group

The Travel Group meets fortnightly, on Tuesdays, between September and March. Monthly meetings are held when will be a presentation by a visiting speaker. A programme of stimulating full-day visits is arranged for the alternate sessions. There will be a charge to cover transport, entry fees, specialist guides and so on. The aim is to go to places which would be difficult for the individual to visit alone.The season starts with a presentation by Dr. David Hope, former Archbishop of York. Our first outdoor excursion will be on October 7th when we shall explore the fascinating Furness area. We are fortunate to have secured the services of a Blue Badge Guide for this visit.

Leaders: Rosemary Hoyle [608990] and Kate Collins [0113 258 9542]
8 monthly meetings on Tuesday mornings from 10am till 12 noon starting on 16 September. Jack Lofthouse Annex, Clarke Foley Centre, Cunliffe Road, Ilkley Fee: £9

 

(PVG) Voyagers

A fascinating and informative programme is offered, with visits to places of interest alternating with indoor meetings with a speaker (one visit and one meeting each month). Visits will include the Bridgewater Hall, Yorkshire Dales Falconry Centre, a working cotton mill of the Industrial Revolution, the British Library at Boston Spa and some fine examples of Tudor, Jacobean and Georgian architecture. The talks range from a historic journey through the Northwest Passage, America’s Canyonlands, and the story of a Yorkshire mill, to ‘Godzone’ New Zealand. There will also be a 6 day visit to lesser-known Tuscany (24-30 June) and a 4 day visit to the Norwich area including Sandringham House and estate (7-10 August). Members will be responsible for the cost of each visit.

Leader: Pam Harris [608585]
Approximately fortnightly on Tuesdays, commencing 23 September. Indoor meetings are held at the Ilkley Playhouse 10.30 am to 12.30. Fee: £9

 

(SCF) Computer Forum

For members with problems with their computers or who are considering buying one. Users with laptop machines may bring them if they wish. A wireless terminal is available for the use of members. Each member wishing to go on line at a session must contribute £1 to defray installation costs. The programme will be organised according to members wishes but in principle each session will include a short presentation on an aspect of computer use. Digital photography and manipulation will be demonstrated and then the members may divide into sub-groups related to those interested in specific areas such as Internet Service Providers/Broadband or dial-up/PCs or MAC machines/Word/Excel/Access and other applications. The aim is to encourage "self-help" as far as possible. A computer will be connected to a digital projector to show the screen contents at an enlarged scale to demonstrate applications, text selection and mouse moves. Remember - no one knows everything. This is a participative group. Come with your questions and your experiences.

Leader: John Pullin [01274 551451]
with Roger Cook, Garry Dooley, Tony Dutton, Ian Widdowson
6 meetings starting on Friday 12 September from 2pm to 4pm, thereafter on 31 October, 28 November, 30 January, 27 February and 27 March. Activities Room, Grove House, Abbeyfield, Riddings Road, Ilkley. Fee: £9

 

(SCS) Computer Basics

This course aims to give you a good working knowledge of Windows, that will help you to use and enjoy your computer effectively, whatever you want to do with it. What to do when things go wrong; how to organise your photos and other files; how to back up and copy your work; these, and many other topics will be covered, and the needs of participants will be taken into account as much as possible. There may even be a taste of writing your own programs, to get closer to understanding how computers work. Jargon will be demystified, and all will be illustrated using a digital projector to show procedures in detail. If you have a laptop, you can bring it to the course, and follow along on your own machine.

Leader: John Cunliffe [601143]
Weekly on Friday afternoons from 2pm till 4pm, starting on 19 September [except for 26 September,24 October and 28 November]. Activites Room, Grove House, Abbeyfield, Riddings Road, Ilkley Fee: £9

 

(SPT) Physiological Topics

Please note that this course is open only to U3A members who attended the Human Physiology Course in 2006/07 or 2007/08. My plan is to tackle a range of physiological topics in six two-hour sessions, which will probably cover the following: energy metabolism (man as a machine), muscle function in other animals (e.g. how do insects fly), taking our first breath (events at birth), survival under extreme environmental conditions, Ernest Henry Starling (contributions of a major British physiologist), and some clinical physiology. Further information can be found at or by telephoning Brian Jewell (01943 601864).

Leader: Brian Jewell [601864]
Six sessions fortnightly on Monday mornings 10am to noon, commencing 15 September Dales Room, Christ Church, The Grove, Ilkley Fee: £9

 

(TBT) Great British Thinkers

Paine on Monarchy, Adam Smith on Wealth, Malthus on Population Explosion; Darwin on Evolution; Marie Stopes on Birth Control, Beveridge on The Welfare State. Their ideas in the context of current affairs, with plenty of scope for group discussion.

Leaders: James Gilmour [608953] and Pamela Rae [609890]
12 weekly sessions on Wednesdays, 2pm to 3pm, starting 17 September. Middleton Room, Christ Church, The Grove, Ilkley Fee: £9

 

(TDE) Decisions! Decisions!

In our lives we all face choices about shopping, education, housing, religion, partnering, retiring and so on. Institutions such as families, charities, businesses, councils, parliament, the EU and others make choices for us. We will use some tools of the social sciences [for example: economics, sociology, psychology] to help us examine critically and understand how choices are made and, perhaps, learn how to make choices a little better for ourselves. The approach will avoid technical jargon and encourage discussion.

Leader: Richard Butler [01274 568814]
6 fortnightly sessions on Fridays, 10am to noon, starting 10 October. Soroptomists’ Room, Clarke Foley Centre, Cunliffe Road, Ilkley Fee: £15

 

(THA) A Practical Introduction to Handwriting Analysis

The six sessions will provide an interesting and useful introduction to the psychology of handwriting. Special emphasis will be placed on forensic applications, partnership choice and personnel selection.

Leader: Chris Molander [601115]
6 weekly sessions on Wednesdays from 10 to 1130, starting on 3 December for three weeks and continuing on 7 January for a further three weeks. Soroptomists’ Room, Clarke Foley Centre, Cunliffe Road, Ilkley Fee: £9

 

(TLD) Let's Discuss it

Sometimes discussion, sometimes more formal debate on topical issues, the interests of members of the group and anything controversial are what this group is about! Members volunteer to introduce subjects from time to time.

Leader: Bill Pearson [873547]
Weekly on Mondays, 2pm to 4pm, starting on 6 October for 10 sessions and continuing on 12 January for 10 sessions. The Interview Room, Grove House, Abbeyfield , Riddings Road, Ilkley Fee: £15

 

(WSL) Stroll to Lunch

These walks are planned for those who would like an easy walk of about 1.½ to 2 hours followed by lunch. Those taking part should bring suggestions for walks and places to eat to an initial planning meeting.

Leader: George Brewster [864166]
Fortnightly on Wednesdays, starting at 1030,1 October for initial planning to be held at 49 Sun Lane, Burley-in-Wharfedale No fee

 

(WWL) Walk to Lunch

We usually walk for about two hours, locally and in the Dales. The walks vary in the challenge they offer, but members should be prepared for hills and the odd stile as well as easy paths. Members of the group take turns in leading a walk and booking lunch, and the programme is arranged as far as possible, after the first walk of the season, details of which will be circulated in advance. Reminders of all details of seven walks in the autumn and seven in the spring are circulated prior to each walk.

Leader: Heather Smith [874548]
Fortnightly on Wednesdays at 1030am, starting 17 September and continuing 14 January. No fee

 

(WHL) Hike to Lunch

Each hike will be of around three hours duration [6 miles], in various areas of the Yorkshire countryside, including the Dales. It is hoped that all group members will take a turn in leading a walk

Leader: Malcolm Harris [608585]
25 fortnightly hikes [excluding Christmas Eve] starting on Wednesday 3 September. No fee

 

(WFF) Fell Walking for the Fit

Outings will mainly be off the beaten track to some of the more unusual parts of the Dales, with occasional visits to the North York Moors, Bowland Fells and the Lake District. Expect to be walking six or more hours, depending on the time of year, weather and nature of the terrain. Lunch will usually be carried. A preliminary meeting will be arranged in September for the group to agree and discuss the programme.

Leader: Alan Kay [600379]
Thursdays, starting on 2 October. Start time to be arranged for 10 fortnightly sessions. No fee