An intensive three-day course concentrating on a range of works for chamber orchestra.
ABILITY: CONFIDENT, SKILFUL
Resident: £572 Non-Resident: £435 (25% off for under 27s) Code: 26/329
Members priority booking opens at 9am on Tuesday 17 June.
NOTE TO MEMBERS
Priority booking for this course is operating a ballot system for the following parts: flute, oboe, clarinet and bassoon.
If you are a Member you can enter the ballot by emailing info@benslowmusic.org or call the booking line on 01462 459 446 between 9am Tuesday 17 June and midday Monday 7 July 2025. If emailing, please ensure your message contains:
The name and code of the course, plus the word 'Ballot' in the subject line (e.g. 26/329 Advanced Chamber Orchestra)
Your instrument
Your grade/ability level
Any dietary or access requirements you may have
Any accommodation preferences
Any remaining spaces at the end of the ballot will be released as part of general booking.For details on how to become a Member to take advantage of early booking, see here.
General booking opens at 9am on Friday 11 July.
This course runs from 5.30pm on Monday 29 June to 4pm on Thursday 2 July 2026.
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”. We’re looking 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 small amount of repertoire with the aim of creating as polished a final product as we can.
This year we will work on:
- Beethoven Creatures of Prometheus Overture
- Haydn Symphony No. 99
- Elgar Salut d’amour and Chanson de Matin
Please note that clarinettists must bring both clarinets in A and Bb with them to the course.
The Elgar works are for one flute, so the two flautists will take one piece each.
What will we cover?
The focus will be on repertoire listed above, aiming to build the confidence of players as both individuals and ensemble members, to get to know the works in some detail and to develop a sense of orchestral camaraderie.
What will we accomplish? By the end of this course you will be able to…
Feel confident playing the chosen repertoire, to be able to engage with the group as an integral member of the orchestra and to celebrate the joy of making music together.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
Ability: Confident, Skilful
How will the course be taught, and will any preparation be required?
The course will be taught in a mixture of full rehearsals and sectional rehearsals. Feedback and support will be provided throughout the course. Whilst 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 during the course.
Will music be provided in advance of the course?
No, but it is readily available online on IMSLP.
Is there anything I need to bring?
Just you and your instrument!
Clarinettists must bring both clarinets in A and Bb with them to the course.
What previous participants said about this course…
“I very much enjoyed Richard's conducting and tutoring style. He struck just the right balance between offering plenty of advice and suggestions and maintaining a disciplined approach, alongside a sense of humour and plenty of friendly encouragement.”
“My first time on this course. Lovely music. Lovely tutors. Richard was inspirational as conductor.”
“Brilliant conducting and coaching. Richard picked up on everything and didn't miss a thing. He spent time with all sections, was very friendly helpful and approachable. My first time on timpani at Benslow Music but everyone, tutors and staff, went out of their way to help me.”