FAQs

What will you learn from a coaching session?

Experience how you can improve on your musical aspects of playing chamber music. With proper guidance, progress can be phenomenal, versus hours of repeated technical work.

What is the Coaching Session duration?

Each coaching session would be 2 hours long, and your ensemble as well as two others will be coached during that duration.

Who can apply?

Existing or newly formed ensembles (3 – 8 players) of all ages are invited to apply.

Can I apply to the Chamber Music Academy alone?

You should apply as a chamber group. Find friends to form one, and enjoy preparing for the academy as a group!

Is there any age limit?

No. Well, maybe 8 to 88 years?

What if I can’t find a group to play with?

Do reach out to us, and we will see if we can match you to any other players. If this is not possible, you are still welcome to join the SCMF as an observer.

What are the guidelines for forming an ensemble?

An ensemble should have three to eight players, with mixed instrumentation (without a conductor, of course). Strings, winds, brass and piano are welcome, but instruments should not all be the same, eg. four double basses or three flutes. If you have any questions, you may contact us at [scmf@resoundcollective.org].

What type of repertoire should we select for the coaching sessions?

Please select chamber repertoire that is of a comfortable level for all your ensemble members. Works selected should be between 5 to 12 minutes long. One movement is preferred, but multiple short pieces may also be chosen provided they fit the duration specified.

We suggest that you select music that will demonstrate different aspects of chamber music ability.

The music selected should be from the classical chamber genre, in the broadest sense, and written for the given instrumental combination. Arrangements or transcriptions are not recommended. If in doubt, please check with us.

Must our group have a teacher or instructor?

It’s up to you. If you have a teacher, please have him/her submit a letter of recommendation. Independent groups without a teacher will be considered with equal merit!

Is there a minimum exam grade required for each player?

All that’s needed is that every player can manage his/her part, and is a cooperative music partner.

Why should we apply for Chamber Music Academy?

To have fun playing chamber music with your friends, of course!

You and your ensemble will have the opportunity to be coached by our Festival Artists, as well as learn by observing other groups’ coaching sessions. All participants are also invited to attend the theatre/movement improvisation workshop, as well as all other concerts by Festival Artists during the SCMF.

Selected participant groups will also have a chance to showcase your prepared repertoire at the festival’s closing concert.

What is the registration process?

You will be required to fill in a form (one form per ensemble) and pay a registration fee of $30. As we have a limited number of spaces, you will be notified of your application’s outcome by 1 Dec 2023. If successful, you will have to pay the participation fee of $120 (per ensemble) to secure your spot.

Note: Payment for registration to be made within 2 weeks of online form submission via PayNow to Resound Collective Limited, UEN 201631412H leaving a comment with SCMF and your name <SCMF – your name>

What is the Closing Date for applications?

31 October 2023, 2359hrs.