Lets Learn How to Play the Cittern.

Let’s Learn How to Play the Cittern. What You Need to Know Before Learning to Play the Cittern. ChaptersWhat is the Cittern?Some Famous Cittern Performers.How to Play the Cittern.Where to Find Cittern Lessons.We imagine that the world is split into two types of people: those who have never heard of the cittern, and those who desperately want to get their hands on this musical instrument and get playing.Considering that you have found yourself here, we are guessing that you belong in the second category â€" although you might not put it in those terms. And our project here is to have you fulfil your desire: to get you playing this stringed instrument and taking its music to everyone in that first category.And we’ll admit it. Out of all the musical instruments that you can possibly learn in the world, the cittern is up there with the mandolin or the harpsichord as one of more obscure stringed instruments. It’s not exactly like the modern guitar, is it, or violins, for which you can find lessons and training on pretty much every corner of every street.No, it isn’t. If you wa nt to learn to play the cittern, you have to make a bit more of an effort. You need to find out how to tune it, what notes the strings are supposed to be â€" and then find the correct strumming or plucking technique, and all the pieces in the repertoire that you’ll want to play.You’ll never take for granted how easy it is to learn the guitar ever again.So, here, we’re going to give you all the information that you might need before you sit down and start learning the cittern: a bit of the instrument’s history, some famous citternists you need to know, and some basic techniques.And we’ll finish off by pointing you in the direction of some cittern teachers â€" to make your life a bit easier. Why not learn the cittern? (image from Magills) PeterGuitar Teacher £12/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors EdgarGuitar Teacher 5.00 (8) £30/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors PaulGuitar Teacher 5.00 (12) £18/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors DanielGuitar Teacher 5.00 (3) £40/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors ToddGuitar Teacher 4.75 (4) £35/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors SamueleGuitar Teacher 5.00 (5) £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors KurtGuitar Teacher 5.00 (3) £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors RyanGuitar Teacher £30/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutorsWhat is the Cittern?If you have read our article on learning to play the mandolin, you may well think that this instrument known as the cittern is really just another of the family of mandolins.In fact, many of its features are very similar: it often has eight strings arranged into four two-string courses â€" although it can often have six courses too â€", it h as a box-shaped body and resonator, and it is strung with metal strings. However, where with a mandolin you use a plectrum, on the cittern you primarily just use your fingers.Meanwhile, whilst mandolins are reasonably widespread as instruments, citterns are not so much. And, importantly, they only come in one shape. There are not all these differences between flat-backed and bowl-shaped citterns that you find in mandolins. Citterns are flat-backed â€" making them easier and cheaper to make.However, the primary difference between the cittern and the mandolin is in their history. They are two distinct instruments with two distinct trajectories. But, given their history â€" and the fact that the cittern is a primarily historical instrument â€" all of these terms tend to become a little confused.And so, despite the cittern’s history, it can often be very similar â€" and often confused â€" with a mandolin, a mandola, or even a bouzouki.A Brief History of the Cittern.The cittern comes f rom the family of lutes and it was popular across Europe in the sixteenth to the eighteenth centuries. It is generally thought to have developed from the earlier instrument, the citole, which is considered to be the ancestor of the modern-day fiddle.Whilst most string instruments during the Renaissance used gut strings, the cittern made use of metal, which were placed over a fretted neck and what is known as a ‘pear-shaped body’ â€" as opposed to the contemporary guitar’s double-shouldered shape.Just as the guitar is now, the cittern was a popular instrument, with popular in the sense of it being an instrument of the people rather than, say, of the aristocracy. There are even references to citterns being in barber shop waiting rooms, so that people could play as they waited.However, by the end of the eighteenth century, the guitar had started to push the cittern aside, in terms of popularity and distribution. Apart from in Germany and Switzerland, where citterns were still bei ng commonly made and played, they generally stopped being used across Europe.Stefan Sobell, an English luthier, has, since the seventies, been making instruments that he calls ‘citterns’. This is essentially an octave mandolin but with five courses â€" again suggesting that the distinction between the mandolin and the cittern is not so rigid.Check out how to learn the ukulele too! 'The Duel', by Cornelis Saftleven - featuring the citternSome Famous Cittern Performers.Well, okay, maybe ‘famous’ is pushing it a little; as in the world of the lute and other string instruments, no-one is exactly famous in the world of the cittern.However, it is good to know that there are some citternists out there from whom you can draw some inspiration. Because that, really, is what folk music is all about: listening to other composers and players of traditional music and developing it in a way that suits your taste.So, let’s look at two citternists who can show you a bit about how this instrument is played. And yes, whilst famous is a push, these guys may well be considered rockstars in the world of the cittern.Ale Carr.Let’s start with Ale Carr, the cittern player with the Denmark-based band Dreamers’ Circus. These guys play awesome classical-inspired folk music, combining Carr’s cittern and a fiddle.Carr shows you what contemporary cittern-playing can be â€" and t he tunes he plays on his five-course (ten-string) cittern are really incredible.You can find some solo performances on YouTube. Otherwise, you can find him on the folk circuit across Europe and beyond.Gregory Doc Rossi.Meanwhile, Gregory Doc Rossi is something of the boss of traditional cittern music. As something of a specialist in the cittern, he has established the Cittern Society â€" an organisation that promotes cittern music â€" he has given lectures and research on the history of the cittern, and he has recorded music from forgotten manuscripts of scores for cittern.Regarded as something of an expert of the cittern, he performs all over the world on this string instrument.How to Play the Cittern.The cittern is traditionally plucked with the fingers â€" as opposed to the mandolin, for which a plectrum or a quill was traditionally used.However, these days, it is common to use a plectrum â€" as both Rossi and Carr do.Whilst anyone with knowledge of the classical or acoustic guit ar would be able to play a cittern, the primary â€" and not insubstantial â€" difference is in the cittern’s courses. This means that with every note that you fret, you are required to actually fret two strings simultaneously. Whilst this is a bit tough on the fingers at first, you will soon get used to it.On the other end of the instrument, however, you have to be able to pluck both strings simultaneously too. This is why the plectrum has become a bit more popular than fingerpicking on the cittern.Whilst picking, it is crucial that you engage both of the strings, otherwise your tone will be affected. If only one string sounds, you won’t get as much volume or as much depth of tone. Learn all of these amazing string instruments.How to Tune a Cittern?As citterns are traditional instruments, there is no single standard tuning that is used. Rather, there are as many as is convenient for you.We get that this does not provide a huge amount of guidance! However, many citternists use one of the following tunings:CGDADDGDADDADADIf you have a four-course cittern, traditional tunings areBGDEAGDEWhere to Find Cittern Lessons.A good teacher is always a gift when you are starting out on a new instrument. And even if you are a guitarist with a good technique nailed, teachers can be useful for all sorts of other things too: for providing you with repertoire or inspiration, general advice, or jamming practice.And whilst there is not a whole load of cittern tutors out there, there are some. Let’s take a look.Find a Private Cittern Tutor on Superprof.One way to find someone to help you to learn the cittern would be through Superprof, a platform that connects students to tutors worldwide.We have hundreds of different tutors of the mandolin, the lute, the cittern, and a whole raft of other string instruments across the world.All you need to do is get in touch. So, search for a cittern tutor near you and get started!Online Resources.You can find plenty of resources to help you in your quest to master the cittern online too. From YouTube to music forums, there are so many people out there who can talk you through the basics.Check out how to learn the banjo too!

5 French Speaking Countries You Can Visit Besides France

5 French Speaking Countries You Can Visit Besides France Sign up successful 2. The Caribbean Photo by Selden Vestrit Okay, okay so the Caribbean isnt a country but there were too many to list! St. Barts, St. Martin, Guadeloupe, Martinique, La Reunion the list goes on and on! Cant you just imagine the white sandy beaches, coconut in hand, listening to waves with a new French-speaking friend by your side whispering the most romantic language in the world into your ear? Le sigh!!! 3. Morocco Photo by Alexander Cahlenstein If Indiana Jones is more your style than a beach resort, you should know that most of Africa speaks French either as a primary or secondary language. Explore thousand-year-old ruins, order a coffee in your favorite Casablanca cafe, plan a trip to the desert, and haggle prices in the casbah with the locals using your knowledge of the French language. 4. Seychelles Photo by Y. Ballester Its where Prince William Kate Middleton had their honeymoon so you know its good! Located on the east side of Africa, these breathtaking islands are tres chic right now, and the locals at the art galleries will be eating out of the palm of your hand when you understand their language â€" French! 5. Switzerland Photo by Gustave Deghilage Why is Switzerland last? Ask Mark Twain, Ernest Hemingway, or Charles Dickens. This is also the place where Audrey Hepburn decided to spend her life. I personally spent four months studying French in Switzerland and I ache for more! The Alpine vistas, the clean air, the glacial water, the trains, and the many, many indoor and outdoor activities all make Switzerland an amazing place to visit. Its a wonderful example of democracy and a multicultural nation that works efficiently and peacefully. Plus â€" its smack dab in the middle of Europe. Perfect for any excursion youd like to venture off to next! These arent the only places that speak French â€" you can find French speaking regions here in the United States, more European countries, countries in southeast Asia, a spare country in South America, and many islands in all of the Earths oceans. By learning to speak French you have a key to new cultures â€" music, art, food, ideas, and new friends around the world. Check out the video below to get started with some key phrases for travelers: Learn French even faster by working with a private tutor! French tutors are available to work with you in-person or online via webcam. Find your French tutor today. Post Author: Jackie A. is an acting, English, French, and Spanish instructor in Essington, PA. She taught English as she studied abroad in Geneva, Switzerland and is an active member of her local improv troupe. Learn more about Jackie here! Interested in Private Lessons? Search thousands of teachers for local and live, online lessons. Sign up for convenient, affordable private lessons today! Search for Your Teacher

College Grade English Tutor-Why Is He Worth Searching For

College Grade English Tutor-Why Is He Worth Searching For Do you want high positions that ring with your glory and make you a leading member in the organizations you enter? Wish to pull the crowd with your pleasing personality and appealing words? You have to hone English skills at a great level to get to this position. Though language skills should be your right credential from your elementary school level. You need to concentrate on your college grade English more to embellish your skills. College Grade English Tutor makes way for the right set of skills for you Have a consultation with Tutor Pace. You get connected to master minds in English who make the best of your language skills. Use it with their best abilities and see through techniques. You find no mystery in learning poetry or doing an essay but learn the fundamental rules to do them. Then it becomes an easy task for you to read your poem or do a paper without struggle. It needs proper tutoring and training to direct you with excellent writing methods and reading habits. Tutor Pace college grade English tutor are adept in the field with their expertise. The subject matter and delivery of their knowledge in impressive methods. Get Onto Know The Intricacies Of #English Learning Via Online Tutors https://t.co/FW7irYvJII https://t.co/CKZ11NEfFI â€" Tutor Pace (@TutorPace) January 6, 2016 Know more on English skills Phonics plays a very important role in forming your spoken skills. Speech drills and spoken practice material handled by Tutor Pace tutors exemplify exuberant speaking methods. It is used for proficiency in speaking skills of English. They are ready around the clock to take over your stress in doing English homework. Do tasks such as essay writing, paper presentation or project submission in English. You need to focus your attention on good writing skills to win over the hearts of the readers. Win hearts of whoever evaluates your paper. They provide simple essays, research material for your project and browse with you for your topic references. Read Also:  Kids’ Math Anxiety Reduced With An Online Math Tutor Grammar plays a major role in English skills and without proper grammar foundation and you cannot lay the road for good writing skills. You need to focus on the intricacies of grammar usage and also for flawless sentences and high styling writing strategies. Online English tutors from Tutor Pace guide you with grammar rules and stylish methods of writing. Develop vocabulary They help you develop vocabulary building with proper reading and listening skills. They not only proof read and edit your essays but exemplify their skills in writing with sample essays and minute corrections and tips for embellishment to take to the heights of grades you wish to gain in your homework tasks in college English. Overcoming Fears And Difficulties In Learning #Chemistry https://t.co/xEKbV7MM07 via #TutorPace #onlinetutoring https://t.co/qnHUD75EKN â€" Tutor Pace (@TutorPace) December 18, 2015 World class online tools with multimedia facilities stand as a communication gate between you and your tutors. They keep awake with you in your lean hours and difficult times and help you get over the trouble you face in English doing. They are particularly helpful for those who have taken English as ESL and find difficulties in learning the language with a native tongue. Get onto Tutor Pace to make over the hurdles you come across in college grade English tutor. You get into a diagnosis test with them and pick out your loopholes to amend and scale up higher ranges of English performance which would take you to the helm of positions in job market.

Boost Productivity With The Right Keyboard Layout

Boost Productivity With The Right Keyboard Layout IT For Beginners: How To Switch Your Keyboard To QWERTY? ChaptersHow To Recognise A QWERTY KeyboardWhy Does The Keyboard Layout Matter?The Reason QWERTY Was Invented?How To Switch Your Keyboard To QWERTY In Windows?How To Switch Your Keyboard To QWERTY On MAC?How To Switch Your Keyboard Layout  To QWERTY On A Smart Phone?You may not realise that the humble keyboard that we all type on every day has a history and isn't the same for everyone. Keyboard layouts are designed to make it easier and more efficient for the computer user to input their text and prompts. This efficiency is based on the language that they are typing. But with so many different languages worldwide, computer keyboards had to adapt too.IT for beginners is essential because it allows you to learn about the differences between technology and for you to know the things that you need to learn. For example, the keyboard that you are using if you have a keyboard that has been made in the UK is called a QWERTY keyboard. Don't worry I won't ask you to repeat it, but it is somet hing that you should learn to recognise.You should also know that there are many different keyboard layouts around the world. Of which QWERTY is just one. While QWERTY is one of the most popular layouts, there are also popular layouts such as:AZERTY: The most distinctive difference the number keys appear on the letter keys and are activated with the shift key. Used commonly in French-speaking countries.QWERTZ: The most distinctive difference is some keys have been replaced by characters such as  Ã„, Ö, ß. Used commonly in some part of eastern Europe Like Switzerland and GermanyQÃœERTY: The most distinctive difference is W is not on the keyboard at and letters are moved around. Used commonly in countries like Iran and TurkeyÄWERTY: The most distinctive difference is C, Q, V, and X  are not available on the keyboard. Used commonly in countries like Turkmenistan and central AsiaThese layouts are all quite similar to QWERTY with minor changes such as changes in key positions, added special characters and of course some missing keys. However, when you are used to your layout, these minor changes can cause a big headache.Take a screenshot of the problem and ask for help. Photo Source: Unsplashlanguage.’Next, Go to ‘Region language.’ click English in the list of languages to open its menu.You should see the option to add a keyboard here. Make sure you click it and check that it is installed.Exiting this area, click the language again and this time activate the ‘set as default’ option. The last step is to restart your machine, and your keyboard layout should be back to QWERTY.* Please note that this was for windows 10 OS, The name or placements of things may be slightly different depending on the version of your software.How To Switch Your Keyboard To QWERTY On MAC?Click on the Apple icon. Located in the top left of the screenScroll to and click system preferences in the menu list.When the box opens, go to the keyboard optionYou will now see 4 options; keyboard, text, shortcuts and input sourcesGo to Input sourcesClick the + button and add the keyboard layout that you want.QWERTY will be the keyboard for the UK.Close the box, and your Keyboard layout should have appropriately updated.Changing the layout on an Apple device. Photo Source: UnsplashHow To Switch Your Keyboard Layout  To QWERTY On A Smart Phone?In the past, it didn't matter much about what layouts you had on your phone. But as technology gets smarter, and tech gets smaller. It is now essential to have a good keyboard for your phone and tablet devices.This allows you to work on the go, reply to emails even edit reports. The portability of the smartphone means that you don't just want to optimise your pc for the keyboard layout, but you want to optimise your phone as well.Keyboard Layout On An Iphone And IpadChanging the layout on an Apple device is relatively easy, keep in mind that the operating system version of your device may change the way that this is done. Foll ow these steps:Go to your setting app. (Black and grey bike wheel  icon)Scroll down and go to the general tab.Now scroll down to reach the ‘keyboard’ section. Now tap the keyboard menu itemYou will see the list of installed Keyboards on your device.Click your current setting which shows as a language. In this case, it should be English.Click on to the language to open up your keyboard options.You will now see some keyboard layoutsSelect QWERTYExit and your keyboard will be updatedKeyboard Layout On AndroidOn Android there are many different versions available from kit kat to Oreo, each has a slightly different approach to changing your keyboard, but these steps should be similar enough for you to find your way.Go to  the settings area (gear icon)Scroll down to the systems area (icon of a circle with an ‘i’ inside).Go to the Languages and input area. (The icon is a circle with horizontal and vertical lines going through it. )Now the second entry is keyboards, click virtual keyboard.You will see the active keyboardsYou can click one of the options, and you will be able to select QWERTY from thereYou can also click the + symbol and activate a new keyboard.Writing on digital devices is only made possible because of keyboards, having them set up correctly and optimised for your use will make your life much more comfortable and help to you achieve whatever outputs you have in mind. If you found this useful, why not check out our blog on Learning to use your PC.

Should I Go To Marquette University

Should I Go To Marquette University Sarah earned her bachelors degree in environmental engineering from Marquette University. She specializes in geometry tutoring, engineering tutoring, and a number of other subjects. Below, she shares her experience at Marquette University: Describe the campus setting and transportation options. Sarah: Marquette is situated on the border of downtown Milwaukee. There are tons of great things to do downtown or in the surrounding area that are only a short walk, bus ride (the bus runs through campus), or LIMO (campus shuttle service) away. It is really easy to get around without a car, and you can essentially make it to any of your classes by walking. How available are the professors, academic advisers, and teaching assistants? Sarah:For the most part, the faculty is really good about making themselves available for questions and for instruction. They understand the value of a good education, and work to make sure that you are satisfied with the quality of education you are receiving. How would you describe the dorm life rooms, dining options, location, socialization opportunities with other students? Sarah:I really enjoyed dorm life. I lived in Carpenter and Straz, where I shared a room with one other girl and we had our own bathroom. The rooms were nice sizes and had great views of Milwaukee. I am a big fan of dorm food, not only because Im not the one making it, but also because there are so many options. Recently, they have made the selection for vegetarians/vegans more extensive. So, whether you are hungry for pancakes, burgers, stir-fry, or a salad, you will always find something to fill you up. Which majors/programs are best represented and supported? Sarah:I think Marquette is well known for a lot of different programs, including dentistry, law, physical training, nursing, and engineering, but thats certainly not a comprehensive list. I studied environmental engineering with a minor in Spanish for the health professions. I chose this because I like solving problems and I have a love for the environment and for people. So, environmental engineering was a way for me to improve the quality of life for all people. I think the university did a great job of supporting me; there were always professors who genuinely cared about me as a person and as an academic and were able to guide me to develop my career. How easy or difficult was it for you to meet people and make friends as a freshman? Does Greek life play a significant role in the campus social life? Sarah:I found it relatively easy to make friends because of the way Marquette sets up its orientation week. The freshmen come a couple of days early and have a ton of activities to mingle with each other. On top of that, RAs (resident advisors) on your floor made sure you knew everyone on the floor and that you knew what was happening on campus. I myself was in Greek life and found it to be one of the most rewarding experiences I have ever done. It created lasting friendships and great professional opportunities that I dont think I would have otherwise had. Its best if you put aside the stereotypes that you think you know about Greek life and try it for yourself. How helpful are the Career Centerand other student support services? Sarah:The Career Center on campus is extremely helpful. They host a few career fairs each semester where companies come and talk with students about internships, volunteer positions, jobs, and co-ops. The Career Center also will help with your resume, print out free business cards for you, and conduct mock-interviews to help you sell your best qualities. When its time for graduation, they help you get in touch with alumni in your field. How are the various study areas such aslibraries, the student union, and dorm lounges? Sarah:There are a lot of nooks and crannies for studying at Marquette. I think I was still finding new places up until my final semester. As with any school, the libraries get crowded around midterms and finals, but they do a good job of opening up other study spaces around campus to compensate for this. The student union has some good study spaces, as do the individual academic buildings. Describe the surrounding town. Sarah:Marquette is situated in Milwaukee, so there is a lot to do. The Rave, a popular concert venue, is a couple blocks off campus to the west. To the east, you have downtown where there are plays, restaurants, ice skating, jazz concerts, and literally anything you could want to do. Miller Park, home to the Milwaukee Brewers, is a bus ride away for those who like baseball. How big or small is the student body? Were you generally pleased or displeased with the typical class sizes? Sarah:I think Marquette is about 20,000 students, including graduate students. This was a manageable size for me. There were always new people to meet, but also you knew most of the people in your classes. I was generally pleased with the sizes of my classes. Some of the more general classes, like chemistry and physics, might be in a larger lecture setting, but as you get more into your major they become smaller, with around 25-30 students. Describe one memorable experience with a professor and/or class. Perhaps one you loved the most or one youregretthe most. Sarah:I think one of my most memorable experiences with a class was service learning. At Marquette, one of the values is giving back to the community. So, with some classes you are able to do service learning where you volunteer once a week for the duration of the class doing something related to your class work, but also helping the community. For one of my medical Spanish classes, I volunteered at a dental clinic as an interpreter for the patients. It was a fantastic experience to use my classroom knowledge to do something in the real world. Check out Sarahs tutoring profile. The views expressed in this article do not necessarily represent the views of Varsity Tutors.

10 Facts About France

10 Facts About France Interesting Facts About France Chapters1. There are volcanoes in the middle of France2. Before the Romans came, the language spoken in France was Gaulish3. The first dynasty of French kings was polygamous4. The Château de Versailles had bathrooms - and toilets5. There are French schools all over the world6. French toast was a way of using old bread7. Eiffel built himself a “secret” apartment atop the Eiffel Tower8. The Paris Opera breeds trout and bees9. French is spoken in some areas of India10. The French flag honours the royal houseAre you taking French courses or learning French on your own? Want to know more about the fascinating country that brought us baguette and bérets? Read on! Here on Superprof we have collected 10 fun facts you probably didn’t know all about France. AnnieFrench Teacher 4.89 (9) £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors CarolineFrench Teacher 5.00 (13) £25/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors LowriFrench Teacher 5.00 (9) £90/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors MarianneFrench Teacher 5.00 (8) £30/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors ThibautFrench Teacher 5.00 (3) £19/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors AnnickFrench Teacher 5.00 (6) £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors DéborahFrench Teacher 5.00 (10) £35/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors SamyFrench Teacher 5.00 (2) £60/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors1. There are volcanoes in the middle of FranceThe centre of France is dominated by the Massif Central, a  mountain range  so old that, in some places, they are barely worthy of the name, so well has erosion done its work. It is separated from the Alps by the Rhone valley. It is older than the Alps and the Pyrenees.Some of the mountains  used to be active volcanoes. But don’t worry, the last eruption dates to 4040 BC, before the invention of writing and long before steel was first smelted.The Massif Central is a chain of mountains in France with extinct volcanoes. Photo credit: alpha du centaure on Vi sualhunt.com2. Before the Romans came, the language spoken in France was GaulishJulius Caesar wrote a memoir about it, Goscinny and Uderzo made a comic about it: the Romans invaded a territory called Gaul around 58-50 BC, subjugating the entire area of what is now France. (All? No, one little village…) The people who lived there were Celts, distantly related to the Celts of Britain and Ireland. The Gauls had similar gods and spoke a similar language - Gaulish. But Gaulish was already a language in its own right, similar to Old Briton, Welsh and Cornish but differing from the Celtic languages that would later become Manx and Scottish and Irish Gaelic.Gaulish was spoken in most of the territories of what is now France, except for   Aquitaine, where a precursor of Basque was spoken.Very little Gaulish survives in the French language (about 150-180 words, plus their derivatives), which is based almost entirely on Latin. Poor Asterix.On the other hand, one of Gaul's largest cities, Lut etia, situated along the Seine river, is still alive and thriving as the city of Paris.3. The first dynasty of French kings was polygamousOut of the chaos following the disintegration of the Roman Empire, various Germanic tribes migrated throughout Europe, founding new countries. The most successful were the Franks, establishing a kingdom that, at its height, encompassed most of France and a great part of what is now Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany.The first dynasty of Frankish kings were called the Merovingians, after a semi-mythical founder called Merovech. And although they were Christians after Merovech’s grandson Clovis (an early form of the name Louis) had himself baptised, that didn’t stop the kings of the Franks from having several wives.This is somewhat controversial among scholars, as some suggest that they married the women successively - putting one aside before marrying the other. However, the dates support a royal practice of polygamy as many first queens are still mentioned after the king had married a second woman. The practice continued until Charlemagne outlawed multiple marriages.They also attached great importance to the royal locks - the long, flowing hair sported by the Frankish kings and considered to be the embodiment of their royal power.Discover the best French lessons on Superprof.4. The Château de Versailles had bathrooms - and toiletsLook up “fun facts about French history” and you will generally find a part about the stink of the French court under King Louis XIV in the 17th century. He had a new palace built at the palace of Versailles, some ways outside of Paris, to be safe from the Parisian mobs that terrorised his childhood while he lived at the Louvre, as well as keep as many of the nobles as possible under his eye. It is one of the most visited places in France.Supposedly, the new administrative capital of France made up in splendour what it lacked in hygiene. We know this from eyewitnesses who write about the stink of unwashed bodies, urine and faeces in the palace and gardens.However, Versailles definitely had the facilities.It is true that people of that time did not bathe every day. Prolonged immersion in water was thought to spread diseases. But it was considered proper to wash with a damp towel soaked in a little water or perfume, which would have been made with alcohol, which has hygienic properties. Bathing was a pleasure, and the king of France  had his own bathing rooms and installed public baths for the use of the court.Hygiene was actually a big concern for Louis XIV when building Versailles, with public bathrooms, baths and sewers installed. Photo credit: Jose Losada Foto on VisualHunt.comNor was there any need to relieve yourself in the corridors. There were public bathrooms at Versailles to accommodate 300 people, and guests could always flag a passing servant to bring them their master’s toilet chair.The first toilet with running water was installed in 1727, and there wa s a series of drainages and pipes that shunted the waste out of the palace and into surrounding marshes.So why did Versailles stink? If the eye- (or nose-) witnesses were there during large events, people may have been reluctant to give up their place and miss seeing the king just to have a piss. Or they were guests unaware of the amenities. And just because something was proper doesn’t mean that everyone practised it.When you visit France, you should definitely take a tour of the palace of Versailles and see the place where Marie Antoinette lived. It is very different from the châteaux of the Loire valley, another tourist attraction you should include in your trip to France. AnnieFrench Teacher 4.89 (9) £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors CarolineFrench Teacher 5.00 (13) £25/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors LowriFrench Teacher 5.00 (9) £90/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors MarianneFrench Teacher 5.00 (8) £30/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutor s ThibautFrench Teacher 5.00 (3) £19/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors AnnickFrench Teacher 5.00 (6) £20/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors DéborahFrench Teacher 5.00 (10) £35/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors SamyFrench Teacher 5.00 (2) £60/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors5. There are French schools all over the worldFrench people like to think that French is still the “lingua franca”, the go-to language when two people from different countries meet. This is sadly no longer the case, but there is still an impressive amount of French speakers scattered throughout the world. Some live in countries where France is still the mother tongue or at least an official language. Others are French diplomats and employees of the large multinational firms that support the French economy, who are often posted abroad. There is even a little French-speaking enclave on the English channel islands.Therefore, the French government started establishing French sc hools  abroad where class is taught in French, not only in its overseas  colonies  and territories such as Martinique, Guadeloupe, French Guiana, and various African countries, but in almost all the major cities throughout the world. The difference between the Lycées Français and other international schools is that they all follow the French curriculum, so that a French expat can move from city to city, and go back to living in France, and be assured that his child will not constantly find itself skipping a class or forced to redo a year.This makes the French school system very popular with other diplomats (for example members of the UN) and other people who are forced to move regularly.6. French toast was a way of using old breadA lot of things labelled as “French” are not (in France, a French braid is called a “natte Africaine”), but though French toast may exist in other countries as well, it is very popular in France. This traditional French food is called “pain perd u”, or “lost bread”. It could also be called “recovered bread” as it was a simple means of recovering bread that had hardened and would otherwise have been difficult to eat. Even poorer households, in the country at least, had access to milk and eggs, and so the hard bread was soaked in a mixture of the two until it softened, and then fried and served with butter or honey.Though it is true that snail (escargot) and frog's legs are part of French cuisine, not everyone will eat them. Foie gras is for festive occasions, such as Bastille Day (the French national holiday), but pain perdu is a staple of French breakfast, even if it is not as popular as the croissant.7. Eiffel built himself a “secret” apartment atop the Eiffel TowerGustave Eiffel is best known for the eponymous tower of steel he built for the 1889 World Fair in the capital city of Paris. He also built the scaffolding that keeps the Statue of Liberty upright and was the head of the whole monumental project.Tho ugh the Eiffel Tower, now one of the monuments synonymous with French culture (together with the Arc de Triomphe, the pyramid of the Louvre museum, French cheese and French wine) was originally meant to be dismantled after twenty years, Eiffel thought it would be a very clever thing to have his own private apartment inside where he could receive honoured guests - mostly scientists and intellectuals (it had its own miniature lab). He reportedly received offers of thousands of francs to rent it out, but always refused.The apartment is on the third platform  and is now open to the public. Tourists  can admire wax figures of Eiffel and Thomas Edison (one of his special guests) in the cosy room.8. The Paris Opera breeds trout and beesSpeaking of secret apartments, anyone who has seen (or read) The  Phantom of the Opera knows about the underground lake in the cellar of the celebrated  Parisian Opéra Garnier, where the Phantom had his hideout.    What they might not know is that the lake is real, and that it has been used to breed trout.An opera house is a heavy sort of building and needs proper foundations. But the high water table in that area of Paris meant that the opera would often have had its cellars flooded - the place where all the expensive props, costumes and backdrops are stored. So instead the architect built the flooding into the building. A large vaulted area, supported on sturdy stone columns, provides a space for the water when the water table is high, with the actual storage cellars built above it. Alas, there is no secret apartment where a deformed man once lived and wrote horrifying music. You can rent the Phantom’s box (Number 5), though, to watch the internationally acclaimed productions.The entrance to the cistern in the foundations of the Opéra Garner, where Gaston Leroux set his Phantom of the Opera. By FR (Own work) via Wikimedia CommonsFor some time, trout were kept in the lake. This seems to no longer be the case, but the roof still ha s beehives  - you can buy the honey in the opera’s gift shop. When visiting France, you should definitely see the opera house. Tours don't include the reservoir, but they often have costume exhibitions and the architecture is splendid.9. French is spoken in some areas of IndiaIf you know a little about French history and colonialism, you would expect French to be spoken in Africa and maybe parts of the Caribbean (and the Quebec region of Canada), but India belonged to the English, right?Well, partly right. With the fall of the Mughal Empire in India and the lucre of tea and cotton shining in their eyes, many European powers sought to gain control, among them the English, Dutch and also the French. This was both helped along and hindered by the fact that the Indians were busy fighting amongst themselves as  each local ruler declared himself the rightful heir to the next Mughal Empire. This made them susceptible to European envoys waving gold in front of their faces, and European ar mies with more men to add to their cause.The wars in India where Wellesly, later Duke of Wellington, cut his strategist teeth were as much between the European powers as between the Indian royal houses. In that chaos, England emerged mostly victorious, but France managed to acquire and hold on to the regions of what is now Punducherry and Chandannagar.In the spirit of decolonisation, the two regions were given to India when it received its independence, but French remains an official language of those provinces.10. The French flag honours the royal houseWhen the French revolutionaries first donned the tricolore - the cockade of blue, white and red that later became the flag of France - they weren’t being so revolutionary after all. The first cockades were only blue and red, in the colours of the flag of the city of Paris. General Lafayette suggested adding white to represent royalty - in fact, the royal arms also incorporated the colours blue, white and red, colours often found in the French flags of the past.The French flag of red, white and blue isn't that revolutionary in colour. Photo on VisualHunt.comAs much as “à bas les aristos!” has become a byword for the French revolution, at first all the people wanted was adequate representation in the États-Généraux (a form of parliament that actually only convened at the king’s convenience) and affordable bread. First forays into democracy were along the lines of a constitutional monarchy. But both the king’s endless dithering and the rise of political fundamentalism that sent as many revolutionaries as aristocrats to the guillotine led to the sort of climate that made the king fear for his life and that of his family.Caught while attempting to flee for Austria (someone recognised his profile from a coin), this was the last straw for the French people who felt the king had betrayed them. The king died (though the monarchy was re-instituted twice in the following century), but the royal colours remai n on the French flag - though some argue that the white represented the kingdom of France and its people, not the monarchy itself.For lessons in the capital, search online for 'french classes london'.

Free AP exam prep seminars

Free AP exam prep seminars Its already March, which means that AP exam season will soon be upon us!  Most teachers are  finishing up new material in AP classes this month, and exam preparation will start in April.  If youre  worried about that tough US History or Calculus exam, you should check out our AP exam preparation  seminars!New for 2012, our AP seminars are free for current AJ Tutoring students and only $50 for non-AJ  Tutoring students.  Each seminar is two hours long and will consist of a review of major topics, hard concepts, and typical problems, as well as a question and answer session.  All seminars will take place at our Palo Alto office at 430 Cambridge Avenue, Suite 110.AP Seminar Schedule:AP Calculus (AB/BC) Seminar: Date: April   23rd @ 6-8pm (Instructor: William Cesarotti)AP Chemistry Seminar:  Date: May 3rd @ 6:30-8:30pm (Instructor: Robert Jonas)AP Physics B Seminar: Date: May 7th @ 4:30-6:30pm (Instructors: William Cesarotti Andrew Dreyfuss)AP US History Seminar: Date: May 7th @ 6:30-8:30pm (Instructors: Jean Liao Jared Greene)AP English (Language) Seminar: Date: May 12th @ 3-5pm (Instructor: Jared Greene)Click here  to register for a seminar.  Space is limited, so register today!    If youd like more comprehensive review for your AP exams with one of our experienced tutors, email info@ajtutoring.com and well get you set up.

Business English 10 Tough Job Interview Questions

Business English 10 Tough Job Interview Questions One of the main reasons people come to us for English classes is preparation for job interviews in English. When we are preparing for interviews we always seem to focus on the easy questions â€" our academic background, previous work experience and why we are employable.However, much as we like to avoid them there are also questions that are uncomfortable and awkward. Here are some of them:What are your weak points?How do you handle criticism?Have you ever had a difficult relationship with a boss? How did you deal with this situation?Have you ever had a professional failure? What was this and how did you handle it?Why are you leaving your current position?Are your current employers aware that you are at this interview?What is the job you are applying for in coming here?What are your salary expectations with this job?Do you plan on having children? (Note: This question is not typically asked in the United States, due to discrimination laws.)What will you do if you don’t get this job ?Here is some advice on dealing with tough interview questions: Did you find this blog helpful. Feel free to share it on Facebook and Twitter.