Sessions and Timetable

These are accompanied by professional pianists and take place in small groups, allowing technical and musical issues for each conductor to be addressed in detail.

Students are placed in a group appropriate to their ability. This is initially assessed on video material submitted before the course.

Students work with a combination of professional string quintet and piano, enabling further detailed study in a smaller-scale environment.

All participants will have the opportunity to conduct this larger ensemble consisting of invited external instrumentalists alongside course members.

The Sussex Chamber Orchestra will join the course to provide a full orchestra.

On Wednesday and Thursday evenings, a limited number of students will be invited to conduct under the guidance of the tutors.

Those selected will be asked to put into practice the approach explored in Music Study. They are also expected to have a thorough knowledge of the score and appropriate technical ability in order to provide a valuable experience for both the orchestra and the class.

Students who have not conducted on Wednesday or Thursday evening will have the opportunity to do so on Friday and Saturday.

In these sessions the tutors will approach the set repertoire from various perspectives, including: performing traditions; interpretation; musical literacy; score learning and analysis. They are accompanied by the course pianists.

Denise Ham will lead progressive technique sessions throughout the week which are open to both participants and observers.

Designed to extend the programme of study and including:
- Rehearsal Technique and applied Aural Skills
- Performance Psychology
- Orchestral String Playing Techniques
- Working with Choirs
- Conducting Opera Recitative
- General Q&A & Career Advice

This session, on the Tuesday afternoon, will see Professor Colin Metters work with a maximum of four students on a selection from the course repertoire. All are encouraged to observe his inspiring pedagogical approach. Mr Metters will also be available for 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