Unsung Heroes Cello Ensemble
Cellists! This year, we introduce an exciting new and inspiring programme for intrepid advanced players (Grade 7 and above) and professionals, who want to be a part of a unique event. Do join us on a thrilling journey from Lassus to Messiaen and onwards to new compositions for the Unsung Heroes Cello Ensemble. Our week culminates in a public performance.
The title is the last line of the poem "Any Time" by W.S. Merwin. An inspirational poet, translator, thinker and conservationist who won two Pulitzer Prizes, draws you into his deep world.
View The Darkness thinking the Light 2026 Flyer
Time
9.30 am – 4.00 pm daily
Location
All Saints Centre, Friars Walk, Lewes, East Sussex BN7 2LE (Close to parking and the railway station)
Price
£670 – includes all refreshments and delicious lunches.
Your music is sent out 6 weeks before the course. I recommend listening to performances of the original and getting familiar with your part ahead of rehearsal.
Cellos are available to rent for £50 each.
Refunds & Cancellations
Please read our cancellation policy before booking.
NEW – An adventurous, intensive course for advanced (Grade 7 minimum) and professional cellists.
The Darkness thinking the Light – 2026 Summer Course
The Darkness thinking the Light – 2026 Summer Course
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INTRODUCTION
If you are looking for something unique, then summer 2026 sees the introduction of The Darkness thinking the Light – a thrilling new concept and a remarkable programme of music for intrepid, advanced cellists, and professionals seeking a different kind of musical experience.
With deeply inspiring music ranging from Lassus to Messiaen, we also have two new commissions from cellist-composers, Joanna Borrett and John Blood, both inspired by the Unsung Heroes Cello Ensemble and its innovative courses. This will be quite an extraordinary and memorable event. It is a great opportunity for you to be a part of something immersive and engaging, and then to perform the premiere of two new works.
Our summer events are smallish and personal, and players find that playing a predominantly vocal repertoire affects and enhances their technical and musical skills in a deep way. Last summer, several players, used to orchestral playing, pointed out that they felt a vulnerability in chamber playing that ultimately propelled them forward, as players and communicators.
If you would like to be a part of this unique event, just make sure you can commit time to knowing the music before we meet for a fabulous time of development and honing our collective cello voice. We are heading, together, to a public performance on Friday evening – a complete expression of our week. Your scores will be sent out six weeks beforehand.
For those intrepid advanced cellists (Grade 7 standard or higher), please fill out the application form when booking, providing details about your playing experience, level, and current repertoire. You need to be a fluent reader of the tenor and treble clefs.