String Chamber Course

Tutors:  Sacconi Quartet & Solstice Quartet

Daily Timetable:

9.30am – 12pm Session 1

12-4pm ‘Options Session’ (incorporating 1.30pm Concert, 2.30pm Masterclass and rehearsal time)

4/4:30pm–6.30pm Session 2

7.15 Foyer Music   

8.00 Evening Concert

This course is for pre-formed string quartets, string trios, piano quartets and piano trios of grade 8 or conservatoire standard. Each ensemble will have at least two lessons each day with members of the Sacconi/Solstice Quartet.  In addition to these, there will also be open classes, masterclasses and performance opportunities. 

Each ensemble should prepare and bring two complete works: one from the classical period and one romantic, 20th century or contemporary work.  It is advised that the standard of the repertoire is suitable for the ensemble. Haydn’s string quartets are often a good starting point for a quartet. There are many to choose from, of varying standards, so try to find one that will suit you best. Please contact us before the course if you would like any advice on repertoire.

In addition, during the options session there may be opportunities to collaborate informally with other instrumentalists on the solo courses, for example forming a clarinet or piano quintet. Aberystwyth Summer Music has a music library with lots of sheet music that you will be able to borrow when you are on the course. You may want to check with Sophie Bennett beforehand that your choice of collaborative chamber music will be in the library. There may also be opportunities to play with members of the Sacconi/Solstice Quartet in quintets and sextets.

There will also be time allotted to discuss all aspects of running a professional ensemble, from rehearsal techniques through to promoting the ensemble and organising a concert schedule. All these things are very important in a musician’s everyday life, but are often neglected in the musical curriculum.

Each ensemble will perform a piece or movement of their choice in the final course concert.