Frequently Asked Questions
CALL & RESPONSE
CALL & RESPONSE
Expert tuition
Confidence-building guidance from a faculty of experienced teachers and performers.Carefully matched ensembles
Thoughtfully grouped players for the best musical outcomes.Tailored repertoire
Expertly chosen music, balancing ability, challenge, and preference.First-class facilities
Beautiful practice rooms, fine pianos, and superb performance spaces.Performance opportunities
Play for a friendly, supportive audience in concerts that showcase what you’ve learned.Masterclasses & recitals
Benefit from sessions with faculty members and guest musicians.Wide range of activities
From choir and orchestra to jazz, yoga, and movement classes.Community & friendships
Free time to socialise with like-minded musicians and form ensembles that often continue long after the course ends.
Fill in the booking form at the bottom of the course page. You’ll be asked about your instrument, experience, and repertoire preferences so we can make the best group match for you.
We have several wonderful venues. Past courses were held at the Yehudi Menuhin School, Purcell School and Tonbridge school. Each course or event has a dedicated page with the venue details and other helpful information.
Not at all! Many people apply individually. We’ll place you in an ensemble that matches your playing level and repertoire interests, and we’ll provide music to you in advance.
In addition to ensemble coaching, you can enjoy a wide range of optional activities such as choir, orchestra, barbershop singing, yoga, and movement classes. Evenings are informal, with opportunities to relax and socialise in the common rooms.
Day 1
Meet your ensemble, rehearse, and enjoy planned activities, including a tutors’ concert.Days 2, 3 and 4
Ensemble rehearsals with coaches, plus other activities like choir, orchestra, movement classes, barbershop and singing accompaniment.Final day
A celebratory concert where all ensembles perform their prepared pieces.
Participants are sent their music 4–6 weeks before the course, giving plenty of time to prepare.
Before the course, Claire Smith (Course Director) will speak with you to discuss your playing level, experience, and repertoire preferences. She and the team will then carefully match you with other players and assign suitable repertoire.
If you are an adult amateur musician who would like to play chamber music and make friends, the course is a great fit for you. We recommend attending our Taster Days, where you can meet tutors and students, experience playing and/or singing in an ensemble, and get a feel for the course.
Anyone who plays an instrument or sings at approximately Grade 5 level or above is welcome. You can apply as a soloist, with a pre-formed group, or as a musician looking to join an ensemble.
