undefinedStrings

A chance to explore some of the exciting and large string trio repertoire. Spend a weekend getting under the skin of trios by Beethoven, Pleyel and Naumann. 

STANDARD: CONFIDENT, SKILLFUL

Resident: £402 Non-Resident: £292 (25% off for under 27s) Code: 25/240

Booking for Members opens at 9am on Thursday 12th September 2024

Booking for Non-Members opens at 9am on Thursday 3rd October 2024

For details on how to become a Member to take advantage of early booking, see here.

What is the course about? 

The course is designed to explore the exciting and varied string trio repertoire. Three pieces are chosen to offer a comprehensive and exhilarating glimpse into a chamber music genre that is often overshadowed by the string quartet and the piano trio. The music for this combination of instruments is of the highest standard, written by many of the beloved great composers as well as those less known. Three set pieces will be examined, studied and rehearsed in a comfortable and safe environment over the course of a weekend. Three highly experienced and brilliant musicians will be on hand to help bring the pieces to life in rehearsal rooms culminating in a short private performance for the remainder of the participants. Preformed groups are welcome to attend and those participants coming solo will be put into groups. Time will be made available for course members to play with other participants outside their allocated ensemble, and to play through string trio repertoire not included in the set works. 

What will we cover? 

Individual movements of preset pieces or, time and playing standard permitting, entire pieces will be covered. 

What will we accomplish? By the end of this course you will be able to… 

play pieces of a repertoire that is not necessarily very familiar, but very exciting. The usual chamber music aspects of listening and responding, as well as being rhythmically aware will be developed or strengthened. 

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills? 

Ideally, participants will be very confident Grade 7 and above players, used to playing with other string players or in chamber groups with other instruments. 

How will the course be taught, and will any preparation be required? 

The set pieces will be announced in good time, so that participants can learn their parts in advance of the course. Participants will benefit the most if they are fairly fluent so that time can be spent on playing through the pieces and working on the interpretations, rather than learning notes. Each ensemble will be allocated a practice room, whilst the tutors will be going from room to room, in order to help with technical or interpretational problems. There will also be masterclass type sessions, during which one group will be taught in front of the remaining participants. These sessions are very informal and provide an opportunity to learn from others by observing and listening. 

Will music be provided in advance of the course? 

Yes, it will be available on this website…  Helpful resources: IMSLP has a wide range of parts and scores. Music will also be provided by the tutors on the course. 

Is there anything I need to bring? 

Instruments and an open mind