Summer String Intensive

What can I expect?

Each day, we will spend several hours together virtually: group warm-ups, technique classes, private lessons, masterclasses, and enrichment seminars exploring a variety of topics. As the name suggests, you can expect an “intense” experience… but we promise we’ll make it fun and by the end of the week you’ll have a wealth of new information to continue exploring on your own!

 FAQs

What is the difference between the Summer String Intensive and having normal weekly private lessons?
The Summer String Intensive is meant to be an immersive and, yes, “intense” experience. Not only will you receive multiple private lessons and opportunities to receive feedback through masterclasses with members of Argus - you’ll also have the benefit of being part of a group of talented and committed peers with whom you’ll have a unique shared experience. You’ll get to meet a variety of people and engage with a variety of perspectives from both the faculty and your fellow students.

Will I have time to practice?
Yes, the mornings are free for you to practice. If you would like to reach out during this time, members of Argus will be available to answer questions, help you out of a rut, or offer support via Zoom or text.

What if I have other commitments during the week of July 27-31?
We ask that participants not miss more than two hours over the course of the 5-day intensive. If you’re very interested in participating but you’re not sure if you can commit to the full schedule, feel free to contact us and explain your situation, and we will work with you to determine if the Summer String Intensive will be a good fit! In some cases, private lessons may be scheduled outside of their allotted times, and enrichment classes may be available via YouTube links following the live sessions.

Will I have the same teacher throughout the week?
One of our goals for the Summer String Intensive is for students to have opportunities to learn from as many people as possible. Each member of Argus has their own focus and approach to teaching. By having lessons and masterclasses with multiple teachers, you’ll expand your knowledge and grow your toolbox of exercises, techniques, and practice methods.

What are enrichment classes? And what are they for?
Making music isn’t just playing the right notes in the right way. In order to take a piece of music to the next level and deepen our interpretations, we need to understand the piece’s background, theory, context, and much more. The same applies to the music industry and the lifestyle of a musician: it’s important not only to be able to perform pieces at a high level, but also to know how to navigate the music world in the 21st century. In the enrichment classes, we will look at questions like: How can I show up to a chamber music rehearsal as prepared as possible? How do I approach learning orchestral excerpts? Will music schools really look at my math grades?

What are technique classes?
Let’s face it: there are some parts of playing a string instrument that are just downright hard! Throughout our lives as musicians, we often struggle, in our own way, with similar difficulties as one another. In these technique classes, we will work together and learn from each other, crowdsource favorite practice tips, and share inspiring exercises.

Why are there optional group warm-ups in the morning?
Some of us might be morning people, some of us...maybe not so much. The group warm-up in the morning is a way to have a reason to get up early, and to have a chance to connect with each other and start the day together before we go to our separate practice rooms. Starting the day like this will help us set intentions for our practice sessions and begin the day in the right headspace.

Please don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions we might have missed!