EARLY BIRD SPECIAL! All BKCM camps are 5% off until March 31st. Apply today!
About the BKCM Summer Chamber Workshop
Join Mike Brofman, director of the BKCM Chamber Music Program, and other talented chamber coaches to explore the joy and excitement of playing chamber music at the BKCM Summer Chamber Workshop – a weeklong intensive open to instrumentalists aged 12 through adult.
Open To: Intermediate and advanced players on all instruments, including strings, piano, woodwinds, brass, voice, and percussion. Applicants should have strong reading skills and at least one year of experience playing in an ensemble. Guidelines for level include Suzuki Bk. 4+ or NYSSMA level 4+, or equivalent.
Application Information and Timeline
Applications for the BKCM Summer Chamber Workshop include a short Audition Video submission (smartphone is recommended), and are reviewed on a rolling basis. As applications are received and strong groupings become apparent, chamber groups are formed, with music being distributed on an ongoing basis.
Applications will be accepted until the workshop is full or through Sunday, July 12, whichever comes first. Late applications will be considered based on group suitability and space.
Based on applicants and auditions, participants will be placed in groups and receive music that is chosen to be both exciting and achievable for their skill level at the beginning of the summer. Accepted participants should bring their music to their private teacher to thoroughly learn it and arrive at the workshop with their repertoire well-prepared.
Audition Video Requirements: Please record…
- One 2- or 3-octave scale of your choice, and accompanying arpeggio
- One 2-4 minute piece of your choice that is an example of your skill and artistry
A live sight-reading selection may be required in some cases.
Workshop Details
Participants will be grouped in mixed-age and instrument settings of two or more players to fine-tune their ensemble skills and artistry. They work with expert chamber coaches and engage in an extensive schedule that includes supervised private and semi-private practice, as well as workshops that build the skills necessary for good chamber-playing:
- Practice strategies
- History of chamber music
- Meet the composer
- Conducting workshops
- Movement in music
- Reading skills
- Music theory
- Score analysis
Participants will be treated to performances by faculty, and the week’s work is celebrated at midweek and Friday performances.
In past years, participants have explored the Dvorak museum and participated in a full workshop ensemble. Each year we plan something special and different depending on applicants.
Sample Daily Schedule (M-F)
- 9:00–9:30 – Warm Up
- 9:30–12:30 – Chamber Coachings / Semi-Private Sectionals / Guided Private Practice
- 12:30–1:30 – Lunch and downtime
- 1:30–2:15 – Musicianship Workshops/Guest Performances
- 2:30–3:00 – Ensemble Rehearsal
Summer Policies
- There are no refunds or credits for private lessons, camps or summer programs.
- All registrations for summer programs and camps are final and there are no withdrawals.
- For more info on summer policies, click the link below.
Financial Aid
Financial aid may be available for qualifying students.
To learn more and apply, visit the link below.