Following the success of our third workshop last February, this
is another opportunity in Chester for interested string players
to make up groups, typically trios, quartets, quintets etc.
possibly with one extra instrument e.g. piano, or woodwind,
and enjoy learning chamber music for a day, with tuition
from experienced players, in an informal atmosphere.
Venue: Abbey Gate College, Saighton Grange, Chester CH3 6EN
Directions: Take the B5130 out of Chester; after it crosses over A55 by-pass fork left
to Sandy Lane; Saighton 2 miles; bear right; gate 200m on left.
An Application Form can be downloaded here.
Applications are welcomed both from pre-formed groups,
and from individuals who will be formed into suitably matched
groups with best endeavour, to tackle manageable works.
We encourage applications from younger and less experienced
string players to introduce them to the wonderful chamber
music repertoire, and in some cases parts may be doubled up
for mutual support.
The tutors will be eager to help groups to play with more
confidence, whatever their experience.
We hope everyone will feel they have learned something
by the end of the day.
Music
Groups are encouraged to bring their own choice of sheet music,
and also scores if possible in order to help the tutors.
There will also be an extensive library of music available for use
on the day by the ad hoc groups.
Please bring your own
music stands, and cellists should bring spike protectors.
Previous experience
The workshop is intended to cater for players having a range of
experience and technique, and the works to be rehearsed will be
chosen to suit.
Some music reading ability is expected, and the
practical minimum standard is equivalent to Associated Board
Grade 4/5.
Programme
Registration will start at 9.00 am for the first session to begin at
9.30 am with each group allocated a room.
It is the intention to run
two sessions in the morning, with a break, finishing by 12.40 pm,
and two in the afternoon (with a break), ending by 5 pm.
For those unable to come for the whole day, half day participation
should be possible subject to us achieving a workable balance
of instruments, and tutors - please indicate your preference on
the application form.
In any case, the ad hoc groups are likely to
be changed during the day to provide variety.
The afternoon
session will probably start at 1.40 pm, to be confirmed.
Fee
Applicants are asked to send a cheque with their form to cover
the cost of tuition and the venue, according to the figures given
on the form, addressed to David Parks-Smith at 2 Greenfield Way,
Cuddington, Northwich, Cheshire CW8 2YH to reach him by
14th February (or phone to check position - number 01606 882007).
The fee includes tea, coffee or soft drink during the breaks, but
players need to bring their own picnic lunch (the nearest pub is
in Waverton 1.5 miles away on A41).
Instructions for finding
Abbey Gate College will be sent with the acknowledgement.
e-mail contact for further information and general enquiries is at