Leading From Behind | Benslow Music

About Leading From Behind

Enhance your chamber ensemble’s musicality, collaboration and performance techniques in this innovative course where you’ll experiment with different leading and following techniques, with a unique focus on leading from the piano.

What is the course about?

Discover new layers of musicality and interpretation as you explore the art of leading and following within your chamber ensemble. Led by Nigel Clayton and Imma Setiadi - experienced pianists and collaborative players - this innovative and enjoyable course is designed to offer pre-existing chamber ensembles new musical skills and insights to deepen your playing. Working with your choice of repertoire, you’ll look beyond instrumental technique to the heart of the music - shaping phrasing, balance and dialogue so that every performance feels expressive and alive. Alongside our coaching sessions, this course also includes a final sharing concert and a celebratory ‘pub quiz’ led by our tutors, offering plenty of time to relax and debrief with like-minded musicians. You’ll leave feeling inspired, more confident in your musical leadership, and ready to bring new depth and sensitivity to your performances.

What will you learn?

By the end of the course you will: Gain new insight into your chosen pieces, deepening your understanding of style, balance and character across the ensemble. Develop your skills in leading, following and responsive listening Feel more connected and confident as an ensemble and ready to experiment Refine your rehearsal and performance techniques, with new ways to communicate musical ideas, rehearse efficiently, and bring greater ease and enjoyment to your playing.

How will the course be taught?

Our varied course structure offers dedicated coaching sessions for your ensemble, individual sessions for pianists, a group masterclass and a relaxed Q&A with tutors Nigel and Imma over drinks. At the end of the course you’ll take part in an informal sharing concert, celebrating the work of each ensemble on the course.

Who is the course for?

This course is designed for existing chamber music groups with piano players, from duos to sextets. You’re also welcome to apply as an individual - if so we’ll do our best to match you with other musicians.

Will music be provided and do you need to prepare or bring anything?

You’ll need to choose the musical repertoire you’d like to cover with our tutors. We'll be in touch before the course to gather this information and pass it on to the tutors. We’re happy to make suggestions if you’d like help selecting which pieces to cover - just let us know when you apply. Please bring printed copies of your music with you, along with spare copies for our tutors. Pianos will be provided, but please bring your other instruments with you.