Bristol Ensemble Training Orchestra (BETO)
AUDITIONING NOW!
Building on the success of its Youth Orchestra concerts, the Bristol Ensemble is excited about launching a new, unique training program for young orchestral musicians.
Over a series of weekends during the year (mainly during half term breaks) conductor Jonathan James and Bristol Ensemble musicians will coach students in the core orchestra repertoire and in the skills required when playing as part of a group.
The program is unique in its design, working systematically through different periods of music and genres and unpacking the listening and technical skills involved. It is planned to supplement the good work already happening in school and county orchestras in the region, developing that training and broadening players’ understanding of different styles and the structure of what they are playing.
Each weekend will build on a variety of orchestral pieces and will encourage every young player to both lead and follow from wherever they are sitting, sometimes playing from normal parts, sometimes from specially prepared scores to give a different perspective. Desks and positions will be rotated, and some will be given the chance to conduct as well.
The BETO weekends will be held at BAMS, the Bristol Music Service facilities during half terms and each will culminate with an informal performance for friends and family. The series will build to a large public concert where players will sit alongside BE members.
The timings for the weekend will be:
- Friday 6.00-9.00pm - Orchestral exercises and run-through of programme consisting of movements (not necessarily whole works) from different genres and eras.
- Saturday 9.00-12.00 - Ear training and sectionals with BE players
- Saturday 2.00-5.00 - Sectionals and Young Conductor training
- Saturday 5.30-6.15 - Run-through together
- Sunday morning - Individual practice at home
- Sunday 2.00-5.00 - Full orchestra rehearsal
- Sunday 5.30 - Informal concert
Depending on take-up, we look forward to running 3 weekend courses in 2011, with a view to expanding in 2012. Although attendance on all courses in the year is not compulsory, it is encouraged for getting the best out of the program. The cost per young musician for each weekend is £65.
Auditions will start on March 6th 2011. You should be Grade 7 or over. You should prepare a piece (or section of one) that shows off your abilities and musicianship well, lasting not longer than four minutes. We will then have a brief chat about your experience in orchestras so far and your future plans.
To register for audition, please email your name and contact details, with your principal instrument to beto@bristolensemble.com. We will then be in touch with more details for the day. For more details please ring the conductor, Jonathan James, on 0117 908 2690.