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STRINGS COURSE 2026

The IIMA 2026 Strings Course is designed to  provide an enjoyable and inspirational opportunity for string players (nominally ABRSM Grade 5 and above) to play orchestral music led by the internationally recognised and multi‑talented cellist and conductor Richard Jenkinson. The Course is open to students of all ages who share a passion for classical music. 

Objectives of the Course

  • Learn how to play as part of an orchestra and within a section under the leadership of a conductor and section leaders.

  • Improve phrasing, dynamics, and overall musical expression.

  • Improve sight‑reading skills.

  • Learn how to play rhythmically varied and faster repertoire.

Repertoire

  • Elgar – Introduction and Allegro

  • Holst – St Paul’s Suite

  • Grieg – Holberg Suite

  • Piazzolla – Oblivion

STRINGS COURSE 2026

Dates: 16–19 September 2026
Venue: Château de Monboucher, Lamonzie-Saint-Martin, Bergerac, France
 

The Schedule below is subject to change, but is an indication of the course content;

Day 1 – Wednesday, 16 September

Coffee and introductions: 10:30–11:00

Rehearsal with the string orchestra: 11:00–13:00 (conducted by Richard Jenkinson)

Lunch: 1:00–2:00 p.m.

Section rehearsals: 2:00–3:30 p.m. (conducted by the Slate Quartet)

Public rehearsal (Slate Quartet): 4:00–5:30 p.m.

Dinner at a local restaurant: 8:00 p.m.

 

Days 2, 3 and 4 – Thursday 17 to Saturday 19 September

String orchestra session: 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. (led by Richard Jenkinson)

Section rehearsals: 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. (led by the Slate Quartet)

Lunch: 1:00–2:00 p.m.

Masterclasses with the Slate Quartet: 2:00–5:00 p.m. (free for all participants)

Individual coaching/section rehearsals: 2:00–5:00 p.m. (with Ishani Bhoola and Charles Matthews)

Evenings

Day 2: Free evening in Bergerac or the surrounding villages.

Day 3: Public concert with the Academy Trio (Ishani Bhoola, Richard Jenkinson, Charles Matthews) and the Slate Quartet.

 

Saturday 19 September

Informal concert: 5:00 pm

Followed by dinner at a local restaurant.

Departure: Sunday 20 September

The course fee is €500

Once registered, there are no refunds for cancellations, unless there are exceptional circumstances discussed with the Academy

All course fees are in euros.

The fee only covers tuition, Masterclasses and a light lunch. Accommodation and travel are NOT included. 

ON THE BOOKING FORM YOU WILL BE ASKED WHAT INSTRUMENT YOU PLAY AND THE LEVEL YOU ARE AT. PLEASE COMPLETE THESE QUESTIONS AS IT WILL HELP US DEVELOP THE COURSE IN A WAY THAT ENHANCES THE EXPERIENCE FOR ALL OUR STUDENTS.

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