2023 Academy
Known for their innovative programming, unique arrangements of classical repertoire, and collaborative approach, chamber music ensemble collectif9 offers a chamber music workshop in which musicians are asked to share their stage experience as well as their unique vision of the practice of chamber music.
This workshop offers young musicians a multifaceted approach in designing and working on inspiring concert programs, in hopes of engaging with audiences, and creating powerful experiences with fellow musicians.
Combining group instrumental practice and activities of exchange and reflection, this workshop is punctuated by several performances, including participation in a concert by collectif9 during the 2023 Orford Music Festival.
Throughout the workshop, students will work and play side-by-side with the musicians of collectif9. They will focus on flexibility, spontaneity and risk-taking in performance and rehearsal work.
Students will participate in:
- Group rehearsals, informal performances, and concerts in which they will play folk-inspired music (Brahms, Schnittke, Marquez), works from the Baroque era (Couperin, Purcell), as well as other repertoire ranging from the 20th century to more contemporary works (Nicole Lizée, Ligeti, JLin, and more);
- Jam sessions with other Academy students or faculty members;
- Presentations and workshops that explore topics essential to today’s chamber music concerts, such as programming, staging, stage presence and communication, as well as collaboration among musicians and artists.
The workshop is intended for string players (violin, viola, cello, double bass) as well as existing string ensembles (duos, trios, quartets, etc.).
About collectif9
Known for their innovative programming and unique arrangements of classical repertoire, Juno-nominated Montreal string ensemble collectif9 performs “with an infectious energy and vigour that grabs an audience’s attention” (The WholeNote). Since their 2011 debut, collectif9 has performed numerous concerts across North America, Europe, and Asia. As performers of classical and contemporary music, the ensemble combines the power of an orchestra with the agility of a chamber ensemble. The collectif9 ensemble operates on the premise that a change of context can influence communication and experience.
collectif9 presents several new programmes every season in Montréal, Canada, and their national and international touring schedule includes performances in chamber music series, festivals, universities, and more. Highlights include concerts in the Festival de Música de Morelia (Mexico), La Folle journée de Nantes (France), Festival de Lanaudière (Québec), Shenzhen Concert Hall (China), and Sound Unbound (Barbican Centre, London). The ensemble continues to explore new repertoire and new artistic partnerships with composers, video artists, poets, lighting designers, and other inspired collaborators, to create multidisciplinary projects that come to life in acoustic or amplified settings.
In addition to the above, the workshop also includes:
- Opportunities to participate in one or more student concerts
- Networking activities with fellow musicians and faculty members
- Access to conferences presented by musicians and guests from various backgrounds on topics related to a musician’s career such as mental health, technique, finances, psychology, physical fitness, and more
- Accommodations in one of our two artist residences
- Three meals a day, as well as full access to the kitchen and common areas
- Practice studios equipped with pianos (available 6 AM-11 PM)
- Housekeeping, laundry (for a fee), parking, and free WiFi
- Free tickets to live performances in the Gilles-Lefebvre Concert Hall (subject to availability)
- The opportunity to explore the beautiful Mont-Orford National Park, Lake Memphremagog, as well as access to activities in Magog.
Please note that all Covid-19 regulations set forth by the Gouvernement du Québec will be rigorously followed.