Unsung Heroes Cello Ensemble, Summer School 2024

I Love This Week!

There are exciting developments at the 2024 Summer School. Although most cellists will be with us for six days, those with less time can join either module 1 or 2. I am designing a whole course that can also make sense for those joining for less time, so you feel a sense of completeness.

This is the central course of the year. It has a strong following and friendships are forged in this festival-feel atmosphere. It is attended by players from Grade 3 standard to infinity (including some professionals looking for time for themselves) Players come from America, Mexico, Canada, Denmark, Switzerland, France, Germany, Spain and from around the UK. If you are flying in and need to rent a cello, please ask.

Each year we have an immersive programme of music and ideas. We work on technique as a response to the music each morning in classes. We develop ideas through improvising. We play ensemble games. We look at history and develop our relationship to the music and its writer. We do a lot more besides. As this has to be a holistic week covering body use and care, we look at the illuminating thoughts of and behind, the Alexander Technique.

We prepare for a performance at the course end and we have a phenomenal time together. Our venue is a de-consecrated church. It is a lovely, spacious place and an ideal home for us and this music. In the evenings, those who want to, meet up in restaurants, pubs or cafes. We have a group supper too. Some people come and stay in hotels or B&Bs – others commute in by car or train (we are very close to the station where you can also park).