We’re pleased to announce that the autumn Chamber Sessions non-residential weekend course for amateur musicians will run from Friday 17th (6pm) to Sunday 19th October (5pm) 2025. Applications are now open! To apply, please fill in the application form.
Due to the side-by-side nature of this course, places are limited and it is anticipated that demand will be high. Applications will close on Friday 26 September 2025 or sooner if capacity is reached. We strongly encourage you to apply as early as possible.
- Spend the weekend playing large scale chamber music with like-minded musicians in Ibstock Place School, Barnes, set in beautiful grounds just a moments’ walk from Richmond Park.
- The majority of the course will be spent rehearsing set works for large chamber ensemble working side-by-side with members of the Berkeley Ensemble culminating in a performance on the Sunday afternoon.
- The autumn course in 2025 is a celebration of Richard Strauss, with repertoire of Metamorphosen (strings) and the Serenade in E-flat major and Suite in B-flat major (winds). Places are available for flutes, oboes, clarinet, bassoons (incl. contra bassoon), horns, violins, violas, cellos and double basses.
- The schedule also includes an informal performance class: receive feedback on solo repertoire (an accompanist is provided) from members of the Berkeley Ensemble.
- Optional opportunities to socialise with fellow participants include a pub trip on Friday night and course dinner at a local restaurant on Saturday evening.
- Suitable for advanced amateur musicians who have substantial chamber music experience (minimum ABRSM Grade 7 or equivalent).
The course fee of £295 includes all tuition, lunch on Saturday and Sunday and rehearsal refreshments. Accommodation and evening meals are not included in the course price. Places are limited and applications will close on 26th September 2025, or sooner if capacity is reached and applicants of complementing abilities can be placed in an ensemble together. We will be in touch with applicants by 1 October 2025 to confirm places and part allocations.
For more information, please email john@berkeleyensemble.co.uk
We also run a residential chamber music course in Somerset.