Chamber Music groups give campers a chance to play music for a small ensemble (usually a trio, quartet or quintet) drawn from a variety of classical composers. Differing from a string camp where the ensembles are just strings, we try to program repertoire with mixed instrument groups whenever possible. Each chamber group is coached by a staff member and scheduled for performance at the end of the session, as well as for Family & Friends Day.
Participation in chamber music is a great way to sharpen listening skills and develop sensitivity to the players around you in all ways: tempo, phrasing, intonation & articulation. Plus, it is a great way to have to have some straight-up musical fun while developing these skills!
The Intensive Chamber Music elective gives campers a chance to build on our standard one-hour per day chamber music offering and develop independence as chamber musicians by spending a second hour each day beyond their regular coached rehearsal in a mix of score study, musical problem solving, master classes and additional coachings. As with all other E/C ensembles, intensive chamber groups may perform on semi weekly camper concerts during the session, and will definitely perform on the final chamber music and Family & Friends Day concerts at the end of each session.
Lower Camp Chamber Music rehearses twice a week on the normal track, and every day for the Intensive campers.
Piano Duets/Trios is a special Lower Camp piano program that focuses on playing lots of simple repertoire for 4 or 6 hands. This program exposes young pianists to better sight-reading, rhythm, and listening skills.
Upper Camp Chamber Music rehearses once a day on the normal track, and 2 hours a day for Intensive campers. Upper Campers learn from a primary and secondary coach, and will occasionally have counselors in their ensembles. Campers enjoy numerous benefits from the exposure to so many advanced and professional players!
