Advanced Chamber Orchestra
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About Advanced Chamber Orchestra
Trace the journey from Classical to Romantic orchestral chamber works in this extensive exploration with conductor Richard Dickins and tutors Miles Golding and Anthony Robson.
What is the course about?
This popular course returns again in 2026 under the baton of Richard Dickins, described by Julian Lloyd Webber as “…an excellent conductor”.
For competent players of strings, woodwind, horns, trumpets and timpani who would like to spend a few days working as part of a fully-fledged orchestra. There will be sectionals as appropriate and for those keen to benefit to the maximum, the opportunity to play some chamber music - so feel free to bring your nonets and octets! The course will cover a select amount of repertoire with the aim of creating as polished a final product as we can.
MEMBER NOTE: Wind spaces on this course will be allocated by ballot. Please see more information below.
What will you learn?
You'll focus on a programme of orchestral music selected for the course. Further details about repertoire will be shared in due course.
With close tutor support and detailed attention to each piece, you'll grow in confidence as a solo performer and by developing your ensemble skills you’ll grow a wonderful orchestral camaraderie.
How will the course be taught?
The course will be taught in a mixture of full rehearsals and sectional rehearsals. Feedback and support will be provided throughout the course.
Who is the course for?
This course is designed for players at the Confident and Skilful levels. Please see our Ability Levels Explained for further details.
PLEASE NOTE FOR MEMBERS:
Please note that, due to high demand and limited places, wind seats for this course will be offered by ballot. Apply as normal and you will be added to the ballot list.
You will need to register your interest for this course between Monday 22 June and midday on Wednesday 1 July. This can be done by the form below or by phone. Ballots sent to us before the priority booking period opens will not be eligible.
Any remaining spaces at the end of the ballot will be released as part of general booking.
Once the ballot has closed, names will be drawn at random to allocate course places. You will receive notice of the outcome by Monday 6 July. Anyone not allocated a place will automatically be added to the waiting list and notified if a space becomes available.
Will music be provided and do you need to prepare or bring anything?
Otherwise, you will just need to bring yourself and your instrument!
Please note that clarinettists must bring both clarinets in A and Bb with them to the course.
Music is not provided in advance of the course but will be provided in hard copy here at Benslow. While there is no need for preparation in advance, players may wish to look at the music before the course in order to get maximum enjoyment; if so, you should find most repertoire available to view on IMSLP.
