ConCorda Chamber Music Course for Strings 2023 will take place from 30th July – 7th August 2023 in Newtown School, Waterford.

Applications are now open.

Closing date for applications is Friday, 19 May 2023.

ConCorda is an exciting international chamber music course for young string musicians supported by the Irish Association of Youth Orchestras, the Irish Chamber Orchestra and The Arts Council. Founded by the late Hugh and Tricia Maguire, ConCorda is now in its 27th year and provides a rare platform for students from fourteen years upwards to discover and explore all aspects of string chamber music in a non-competitive and inspiring environment.

The course, hosted this year in Newtown School in Waterford, offers an inspiring and transforming musical experience in chamber music, string orchestra and music improvisation. Participants study chamber music intensively at a high level with a staff of Irish and international tutors.

As well as members of the prestigious Irish Chamber Orchestra, tutors have included renowned violinist, Marc Danel, the award-winning French quartet Quatuor Varese and Oscar Valsecchi, an actor and mime artist, who is in much demand across Europe’s most exciting theatre companies.

During the course students:

Develop ensemble awareness, techniques and skills through working with other advanced string players from Ireland and abroad

Participate in daily lunchtime concerts

Receive professional coaching and direction in preparation for a public concert

Participate in daily improvisation and rhythm workshops, exploring music through composing and body movement

Rehearse and perform with the ConCorda String Orchestra

Build relationships with their colleagues by participating in a wide range of extra sport, social and leisure activities

The participation fee is €550 and will include full board, accommodation and tuition fees.

ConCorda has been traditionally a senior chamber music course. While requirements define ages normally 14 – 24, with special credit given to outstanding young talent, when selection is necessary the older and/or more advanced applicants will get priority acceptance.