Amateur Chamber Music Retreat

About the Workshop

Located on 114 rolling acres, Garth Newel Music Center in Hot Springs, VA offers the adult chamber music enthusiast the opportunity to explore his or her passion in a non-academic, retreat-like setting that allows for serious chamber music study, personal contemplation, outdoor activities, and socializing with fellow participants and faculty. Herter Hall, the central facility for instruction, performance, and meals, is a converted Arabian horse-riding ring known for its intimacy, charm, and outstanding acoustics.
Activities:
Participants are welcomed to Garth Newel with a short faculty concert, which typically includes chamber works by under-represented composers. Pre-formed ensembles choose chamber music works commensurate with their skill level to be played and explored during self-guided rehearsals and group coaching sessions with the goal of a performance on the final day. In addition, the Ensemble Master Class allows ensembles to learn from watching each other as faculty members encourage them to try various ensemble techniques. A formal group reading session is scheduled for workshop attendees and Garth Newel’s extensive chamber music library is available for informal after-hours reading sessions. In addition to serious study and practice, participants also are afforded leisure time to enjoy the natural surroundings, to gather in Garth Newel’s historic buildings, and to enjoy exceptional meals by the Center’s chef.