Sessions and timetable

The ensemble for these sessions is formed from members of the class with additional external musicians, and all participants will have opportunities to conduct it, putting into practice what they are learning in technique sessions and piano workshops. Instrumental workshops take place with a combination of professional string quintet and piano, enabling further detailed study in a smaller-scale environment.

From the middle of the week, the Sussex Chamber Orchestra joins as the course orchestra. Students invited to conduct in repertoire sessions will work under the supervision of the tutors, and are expected to have the necessary technical ability and knowledge of the score to make this a valuable experience for both the orchestra and the class. All other students will have the opportunity to conduct the full orchestra during the final two days of the course.

Throughout the week, the tutors will cover the repertoire in these sessions, approaching the music from different angles, including musical literacy, score learning, analysis, and interpretation. The sessions are accompanied by our professional pianists.

These are taught in smaller groups to give individual time to each student, and accompanied by our professional pianists. They enable tutors to address technical or musical matters specific to each student, enhancing their progress through the week.

At the beginning of every day, Denise Ham will lead a technique session, involving both participants and observers, based on the Toscanini/Barzin method, which is the foundation of the course.

Designed to round out your programme of study on the course, these additional sessions cover important areas for conductors. Options during recent years have included: Rehearsal Technique/Applied Aural Skills; Performance Psychology; Orchestral String Playing Techniques; Working with Choirs; Conducting Opera Recitative; General Q&A/Career Advice with the tutors.

This additional session, on the Tuesday afternoon, will see internationally-renowned guest tutor Professor Colin Metters work with a maximum of four students on a selection from the course repertoire. All other course students are encouraged to observe, to benefit from his inspiring pedagogical approach. Maestro Metters will also offer individual lessons on the Wednesday afternoon (further details and lesson fee information available upon request).

“A very comprehensive course, offering conductors at all levels the opportunity to improve not only baton technique, but gain valuable insight into rehearsal technique, score reading and a proven method of conducting. I highly recommend this course to participants and conductors of both amateur and professional musicians.”
- Participant, 2022