Dive into the rich and transportative sound of the viol and improve your ensemble’s playing in this inspiring course with expert coaching from Alison Crum and members of the renowned Rose Consort of Viols.
What is the course about?
This much-loved course is a real highlight for viol players, open to pre-formed consorts of Confident to Skilful level. Enjoy an inspiring and immersive few days working with our tutors, Alison Crum, Ibi Aziz, John Bryan and Peter Wendland of the Rose Consort of Viols.
The course offers a unique opportunity to refine your ensemble’s playing, working on music of your choice from early Renaissance music of the 1500s to contemporary pieces. You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of the richness and historical significance of viol music and experience the joy of consort playing at its best.
What will you learn?
By the end of the course, you will:
Deepen your understanding and appreciation for viol consort playing, and the rich soundworld of these historic instruments.
Learn a range of helpful techniques to enhance your viol playing, both individually and as a group.
Spend focused time with your ensemble, achieving a better sound together and refining your performance of your chosen repertoire.
Meet and connect with other early music players outside of coaching sessions.
How will the course be taught?
You’ll get to choose your own repertoire, receiving focused coaching for half of every session — and you’ll work with every tutor during the course. Together, you’ll explore not just notes and technique, but the expressive heart of the music: uncovering its structure, shaping elegant phrasing, and bringing it to life with historically informed articulation.
Who is the course for?
This course is designed for up to eight pre-formed groups of viol players. We offer a two-night or three-night option, depending on your preference.
Will music be provided and do you need to prepare or bring anything?
Please choose a range of viol music you’d like to work on, and bring scores for our tutors if possible. Our Music Library is open for all course members, if helpful. We recommend rehearsing together as a group before the course if possible, to help you get the most out of the course. Please bring your instrument, spare strings, and tuning meter. We’ll be using orchestral stands, but you are welcome to bring a folding stand if you prefer.
“First-class tutors who are positive, insightful and inspiring.”
