Winter Late Starter String Orchestra Day

This one-day workshop will introduce you to the incredible feeling of playing together in a chamber ensemble with other musicians, designed for adult beginner and improver players of the violin, viola and cello. Playing together in an orchestra for the first time can be daunting, but this workshop is designed to help you overcome any barriers or anxieties you may feel, offering an inclusive and non-judgmental atmosphere where you can try new things. Throughout the day you’ll get comfortable playing in a group environment, with helpful tips, games and skills to try from our wonderful tutors, Maria Prowse and Ros Woodin. You’ll have the chance to play together as a large string ensemble, as well as exploring different ensemble skills in smaller groups. You’ll learn how to listen and respond to other instruments and musical lines, the importance of peripheral vision and listening whilst playing, as well as intonation awareness in string ensembles.

By the end of the course, you will: Gain an introduction to chamber music with targeted exercises exploring beginner ensemble skills including intonation and group pulse games. Have had the opportunity to play in a big string ensemble, as well as in a smaller group. Leave feeling more confident to play in ensemble and group settings, and above all, have had a lot of fun!

There will be full orchestral rehearsals, as well as opportunities to break down into smaller groups for sectionals. Tutors Maria Prowse and Ros Woodin will help with note accuracy and counting, intonation, tone quality and interpretation as well as with collaborative awareness in rehearsal and performance.

For players of the viola, violin and cello, at beginner and improver levels. If you’ve always wanted to play in an orchestra, but have been nervous to try it, please do join us.

We will provide details on the music we’ll cover nearer the time. It would be helpful to look over your music before the workshop. Players should bring their instrument, along with any necessary items for upkeep such as rosin, spare strings etc. A pencil and eraser are also helpful!