This weekend course is for string quartets who play together regularly. Each will receive an hour and a half of coaching from each of the four members of the Coull Quartet during the weekend. Sessions will be spread as evenly as possible through the day to facilitate assimilation and rehearsal of issues discussed with the coaches, and each group will be allocated a practice room; several of these are situated in the historic state rooms in West Dean College.

Groups are free to bring along any repertoire they choose, and you will find the course most beneficial if you are well-prepared both individually and as a group. You are welcome to choose repertoire which will challenge you, but be realistic when selecting the works to be studied. Most aspects of quartet playing will be discussed, including leading, achieving good ensemble balance and intonation, exploring tonal colours, phrasing and musical style.

By the end of this course, you will have achieved a good working knowledge of your chosen work(s) and will have discussed how to rehearse together more productively. There are no ‘quick fixes’ in performing chamber music, but you will get many useful tips that come from the tutors’ many years of experience in the profession.

The course includes an informal performance by the Coull Quartet at the start of the course on Friday evening.

Please also be aware that time is limited and the weekend flies past! Most groups find that planning and agreeing a structure for rehearsal and coaching sessions with your colleagues in advance is very helpful.

What students need to bring

• you will need to bring your own music and scores for the group to study, and Extra scores for use of the tutors.
• you also need to bring music stands, ideally with clip-on stand lights, and cellists are advised to bring a spike holder.

Arrival day
Residential students can arrive from 4pm, non-residential students to arrive by 7.15pm for registration. Students arriving earlier are welcome to purchase dinner in the College Dining Room from 6pm.
Students meet their tutor in the Bar at 7.30pm prompt to go to studios.
First Teaching session: 7.30pm - 9pm (attendance is essential)

Daily timetable
Course teaching: 9.15am - 5pm
Morning session: 9.15am - 12.45pm including coffee/tea break
Lunch break: 12.45pm - 2pm*
Afternoon session: 2pm - 5pm including coffee/tea break
Teaching finishes: 5pm
Evening working: students may have access to workshops until 9pm, but only with permission from the tutor and provided any health and safety guidelines are observed.

Departure day
Course teaching: 9.15am - 3pm
Teaching finishes: 3pm

Residential students will need to check out of rooms by 10am. Please note, the tutor may make slight variations to the daily timetable as required.

*Lunch can be purchased on campus, view options

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