Sonata Duos

A course for pianists, string players and clarinetists to explore the art of playing chamber music as a duo; a medium for listening, exchange, mutual support and interpretation.
Pre-formed duos are welcome, but not obligatory as tutors will mix and match individual participants according to repertoire and playing standards.

By the end of this course you will have developed greater awareness of chamber music textures, gaining insights into what constitutes good ensemble, stylistic interpretation, and structure.
You will gain greater knowledge of and familiarity with the repertoire, deeper insights into the pieces you have played and experienced the joys of making music in close partnership with fellow musicians.

During the day, the tutors will offer specialist coaching, drawing on their extensive chamber music experience. The more relaxed evening sessions will be dedicated to sight-reading, working in different instrumental groups and playing alongside the course tutors.

The course will begin with an introduction given by the tutors exploring a particular sonata, followed by an informal performance of the piece to demonstrate interpretation, problem-solving, and working towards a common (or disputed!) musical goal. Over the next three days, you will follow a similar process as you collaborate with your fellow participants on your pieces. Time will be allocated for tutoring on your sonata movements and private practice and the course will close with optional participation in an informal concert at the end. 

The course level is for confident and skilful musicians who love to play chamber music. You should be capable of tackling a sonata movement, but don’t worry about being note-perfect, as your tutors are here to help you learn.

Please bring along three or more movements of duo sonatas to work on. At least two of these should be from works by Mozart, Beethoven, Schubert, Brahms or Poulenc. Duo sonata pairings and repertoire choices will be made in consultation with your tutor Stephen to give everyone time to prepare their parts in advance.