Course Descriptions and Audition Information
Generel requirements
All of our courses are directed towards advanced students (typically graduate students) and professionals. Please include a short bio along with the materials specified below. All recordings are to be uploaded on the application site. Video is strongly preferred, but audio is acceptable.
Concert assignments and more information about the composer readings will be sent out to all participants upon acceptance.
Composition course
Main faculty: Simon Steen-Andersen and Eivind Buene
The composition course will focus on writing for strings, with special emphasis on special techniques and exploring the players’ physical relationship with their instruments. Students will be given a list of works to study, older works as well as works written within the last 40 years. In addition to this, students are expected to bring works in progress for string instruments. The course will include daily lessons, workshop attendance and a final reading.
Audition requirements:
- 2-3 scores, with accompanying recordings. Audio or video preferable, but midi acceptable. The works submitted should emphasize the applicant’s writing for strings.
Composition/performance course
Main faculty: Eugene Drucker and Anne Sophie Andersen
This course is aimed at highly accomplished performers who wish to develop their compositional skills. Participants will work with faculty on writing a piece for their instrument. In addition to this, they are encouraged to study a contemporary solo piece and/or writing a cadenza. Lessons with composition faculty and participation in chamber music are possible at the discretion of the faculty.
Audition requirements:
- Two contrasting movements from an unaccompanied Bach sonata, partita or suite OR chaconne.
- A work or part of a work by a major 20th/21st century composer. For example Bartók, Stravinsky, Berg, Schoenberg, Shostakovich, Berio or Lutoslawski.
- An original composition for your instrument. Cadenzas are acceptable.
Chamber Music course
Main faculty: Philip Setzer, Steven Dan and Henrik Brendstrup
The chamber music course is aimed at highly accomplished performers and chamber music ensembles interested in studying the interpretation of contemporary music. Topics will include special techniques, stylistic variety and historical context. Participants will perform together and with faculty and are expected to prepare a number of works for performance, representing a variety of styles and time periods. Information about repertoire will be given shortly after notification of acceptance.
Audition requirements / Individual applications:
- Two contrasting movements from an unaccompanied Bach sonata, partita or suite OR chaconne.
- A work or part of a work by a major 20th/21st century composer. For example Bartók, Stravinsky, Berg, Schoenberg, Shostakovich, Berio or Lutoslawski.
- A movement from a major chamber music work from any period. Three or more players preferred, but duo acceptable.
- Optional: One movement of a sonata with piano OR one movement of a concerto from any period (with orchestra or piano).
Audition requirements / Group applications:
- Two complete works in contrasting styles. At least one must be by a major 20th/21st century composer. For example Bartók, Stravinsky, Berg, Schoenberg, Berio or Lutoslawski.
- Each group member must submit a separate application.