The Chilingirian String Ensemble Course
15 to 19 April 2026

The celebrated Chilingirian Quartet return to West Dean for their inspirational annual course. All quartets or ensembles enjoy the idyllic and relaxing surroundings, which make this a perfect setting for ensemble coaching, masterclasses, informal performance and collaborative playing sessions.

Course structure

The course offers the opportunity for music graduate, music student or amateur quartets or ensembles, to work closely with each of the Chilingirian Quartet. Each group selects a repertoire of their own choice to work on, benefitting from at least two intensive daily coaching sessions each day. Groups can also participate in informal masterclass, performance and collaborative ensemble playing sessions. The course starts on the first day and ends after an informal student concert on the final afternoon.

Since its first year in 1983, many students have benefited from the immersive and supportive learning experience offered on this course. Many have used the course as a final preparation for an important performance, international competition or concert engagement. A maximum of six string quartets or ensembles are accepted to the course each year. Bursaries are available.

Each of the participating string quartets/ensembles benefits from:

  • Concentrated study and daily coaching sessions with tutors
  • A dedicated practice room allocated to their quartet or ensemble for the week
  • An informal performance opportunity
  • Collaborative ensemble playing sessions in the evenings with tutors and/or other students.
The Chilingirian Quartet playing at West Dean College

About your tutors

The Chilingirian Quartet are one of the world’s most celebrated and widely travelled ensembles renowned for their thrilling and authoritative interpretations of the great quartets and commanding performances of the contemporary repertoire.

Levon Chilingirian (violin), Mark Butler (violin), Susie Mészáros (viola) and Stephen Orton (cello) are highly accomplished musicians, and blend four distinct voices into a single extraordinary sound; their performances are frequently acclaimed by the critics. They are also respected teachers, leading masterclasses at many universities in the UK and around the world.

Finzi_Trust_Logo

Bursaries

The Chilingirian String Ensemble Bursary is offered by the College to music students, graduates or amateur quartets or ensembles, funded by donors and trusts, including support from The Finzi Trust. If you wish to apply, please download the Chilingirian String Ensemble Course Bursary Application Form, please visit our funding page.

The applications should be received no later than 28 February 2026. 

The Chilingirian String Ensemble Course Bursary Application Form

Fees & accommodation

Non-resident course fees
The non-resident student fee for tuition is £600. From 1 October 2025, a 'pay as you go' system for all dining at the College will operate. Read more. 
If you wish to stay at the College, accommodation costs are indicated below.

Start/end times
The course begins at 1.45pm on Wednesday 15 April.  Lunch is available to purchase in the College Dining Room for any student arriving from 12.00.  The course ends on Sunday 19 April at 4pm.

Accommodation fees 
Prices are per person, excluding meals

From 1 October 2025, a 'pay as you go' model for all dining at the College is introduced. Breakfast, lunch and dinner can be purchased on campus. View options

Standard rooms Superior Rooms
Single occupancy with private bath/shower, ensuite or adjacent (Main House/Vicarage) Twin occupancy with private bath/shower ensuite or adjacent (Main House/Vicarage) Single occupancy with ensuite bath/shower (Main House/Vicarage) Sharing Twin Bedroom with ensuite bath/shower (Main House/Vicarage)
£496 £348 £608 £404

How to book and more information

Level: Grade 8 and above
Please bring to the course: your instrument, music and a music stand.

Start/End times
The course begins at 1.45pm on Wednesday 15 April. Lunch is available to purchase in the College Dining Room for any student arriving from 12.00. The course ends on Sunday 19 April at 4pm.

Applications and how to book

With your application, please return:

The Bookings Office will contact you regarding payment for the course fees due for your quartet or ensemble, alternatively, please pay via the online link from the course page.  If you need to contact us in advance or have any queries, please email: [email protected]   or telephone: 01243 818300 (Option 2).

Read the full Short Course booking Terms & Conditions

Book online

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