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2025 Academy
Known for their innovative programming, unique arrangements of classical repertoire, and collaborative approach, chamber music ensemble collectif9 offers an intensive session in which the musicians of the group share their stage experience as well as their unique vision of the practice of chamber music.
This session provides young musicians with a multi-faceted experience, allowing them to create and work on inspiring concert programs, engage with audiences, and create powerful experiences with fellow musicians.
Combining performance activities and sessions of exchange and reflection, this workshop includes several performances. Students will learn and perform works by underrepresented and diverse voices, including newly discovered music and new arrangements, with an emphasis on communication and creativity within a respectful environment. The workshop will conclude with student participation in collectif9’s multimedia concert Folk Noir as part of the Orford Music Festival.
Students will participate in:
- Group rehearsals, coachings, and concerts;
- Chamber music reading sessions;
- Workshops that explore topics integral to the presentation of chamber music concerts today, such as programing, staging, stage presence and communication, and collaboration among musicians and other artists.
The course is aimed at individual string players (violin, viola, cello, double bass). A maximum of 8 violinists, 4 violists, 4 cellists, and 2 bass players will be accepted into this program. Students will work in various groups, from quartet to nonet. Please mention your interest and experience with chamber music in your submitted biography.
About collectif9
Two-time Juno-nominated Montreal string ensemble collectif9 is known for their innovative programming and unique arrangements of classical repertoire. 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. collectif9 operates on the premise that a change of context can influence communication and experience.Andrea Stewart
Canadian cellist and gambist Andrea Stewart is a versatile musician and artistic instigator whose explorations span from historical performance to the sounds and techniques of contemporary music. As a performer of historical and modern instruments, she is equally at home playing with electronics as she is playing basso continuo. Various solo recitals and ensemble collaborations have brought Andrea to venues across North America, Europe, and Asia.Thibault Bertin-Maghit
Inventive and dynamic musician, double bassist and arranger Thibault Bertin-Maghit draws his inspiration from multiple sources, from experimental music to early music and other mediums. Living in Montreal since 2004, Thibault completed a master’s degree in music at the Université de Montréal and has participated in numerous baroque, contemporary, chamber and orchestral music festivals in Europe and North America.TJ Skinner
TJ Skinner (they/them) is a multifaceted, trans nonbinary artist based in Tiohtiá:ke/Montreal, Canada, with over 20 years of classical violin training and performance experience. Since beginning violin studies at the age of nine in their hometown of Lkwungen/Victoria, they have become an engaging and versatile performer, collaborator, and educator, sharing music around the world.
In addition to the what is mentioned above, the workshops also include:
- Chamber music coachings
- Opportunities to participate in one or more student concerts
- Networking activities with fellow musicians and faculty members
- Accommodation in double occupancy and three meals per day
- Practice studios equipped with pianos (available from 7AM to 12AM)
- Housekeeping, laundry (for a fee), parking, and free WiFi
- Free tickets for concerts at Salle Gilles-Lefebvre (subject to availability)
- Opportunity to discover the beautiful landscapes of Parc national du Mont-Orford, the majestic Lake Memphremagog, and the tourist activities of the city of Magog