Annual Workshop

The BCMS Chamber Music Workshop for Mixed Ensembles, a tradition started in Spring 2004, connects two essential facets of our organization – our artists and community members – for a day of learning and camaraderie in which our musicians coach participants of all ages to deepen their enthusiasm for the genre.

The annual workshop welcomes intermediate and advanced mixed chamber groups (trios, quartets, quintets and sextets). Only pre-formed groups may apply. Participation is limited to eight groups which are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Each group receives one coaching session in the morning and one in the afternoon. While not being coached, participants may rest, practice, or take part in a sight reading hour with other participants to play additional music.

The workshop takes place at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and the tution covers coaching, breakfast, lunch and refreshments. At the end of day, participants may choose to perform in front of family, friends and other participants in MIT’s Killian Hall. 

Schedule

9:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.Registration and Breakfast
9:30 a.m. to 10:55 p.m.Session 1
11:05 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.Session 2
12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.Lunch
1:30 p.m. to 2:55 p.m.Session 3
3:05 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.Session 4
4:45 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.Optional concert by workshop participants in MIT’s Killian Hal

Comments from previous participants

“…received very specific comments [from coaches] that made immediate difference in the playing.”

“…a pleasure to share the musicianship of the coaches with the members of my group…helped me see how we could play at the next level just to share that experience with each other.”

“The coaches provided just the right amount of detail, allowed us to integrate the suggestions into our afternoon performance.”

Due to coronavirus (COVID-19) related public health concerns, we have suspended our annual workshop since Spring 2020. Please stay tuned!


The program is supported by ACMP – Associated Chamber Music Players. ACMP is a worldwide membership organization that supports the playing of chamber music for pleasure among musicians of all ages, skill levels, and backgrounds.