Many musicians have the experience of playing in an orchestra with a conductor or in a private lesson with a teacher but have yet to discover the joys of chamber music, where there is only one player for each part and the players must communicate and collaborate without a leader. It’s the classical equivalent of a rock band, minus the amplifiers and vocals.
If you have some familiarity and comfort with your stringed or woodwind instrument or piano but have little or no experience in small ensembles, we’ll acquaint you with the skills you need to enjoy and participate fully in small, self-led ensembles using simple, accessible music and arrangements.
Instead of plunging headlong into challenging classical repertoire, you’ll play familiar, accessible music arranged for trio, quartet, or quintet. Rather than putting lots of time into mastering a difficult part, you’ll focus on becoming comfortable in a small group environment. You’ll learn how to communicate, both verbally and non-verbally, with your playing partners. Once you’re acquainted with how to play in a small, self-led group, you’ll more comfortably progress toward playing more challenging pieces.
Workshop Fees and Policies
The cost is $252. Financial aid is available. A credit card is required to register. Your card will be charged automatically on the last day of each month for meetings in the prior month. As this is a group activity, absences cannot be made up.
Schedule
Registration Deadline: March 16
Music Provided: April 6
Meetings: April 27, May 4, May 11, May 18, June 1, June 8 (Sundays from 10:00 am to Noon)
About Your Teacher
Michael Grossman began teaching violin in 1980 and has been an active symphony violinist, chamber musician, and soloist throughout. He has served as Concertmaster of the Cape Cod Symphony, the Oregon Mozart Players, and the Portland Chamber Orchestra, and as a member of the resident string quartet at Oregon State University.
In 2022, Michael received Marin Symphony’s Teacher of the Year Award. He began coaching chamber music at Marin Community Music School in 2016.
Registration