Many of you already know Lavethan, the amazing Cornish retreat which hosts chamber music and masterclass courses twice a year. Lavethan is an ancient manor house surrounded by huge trees, with spectacular views over a secluded river valley. After a 4-5 hour train journey from London, Cardiff or Birmingham, you step into another world which is both deeply calming and energising. We have rehearsal rooms and three grand pianos, and the course finishes with performances in our beautiful Concert Barn. Food is excellent and there are wonderful walks to take in the surrounding countryside.

 

Our next Easter course will run from 11-17 April 2025, with myself and a great team of tutors: Robin Ireland (viola, ex-Lindsay Quartet), Christoph Richter (cello, RAM and RCM) and Robin Green (piano, Cardiff). We have space for 18 students. The emphasis is on chamber music, but individual lessons are available too. We welcome pre-formed groups and also individuals, for whom we will help to organise a group for the week. We encourage detailed work on a chosen piece of repertoire, focusing on communication and creative exploration of the music. There’s plenty of time to practise, and Robin Green is also available to work on Duos with string players preparing for their final recitals.

 

The course fee is £495, excluding travel. This fee is already subsidised, but generous bursaries are available in case of need, so please don’t hesitate to apply. A full brochure and application form will be sent out later in January. For now, please save these dates, and let me know if you are interested in coming to Lavethan. 

 

I’ll write again soon, and meanwhile wish you all a very Happy New Year!