The Central Program is the largest and most varied component of the Amherst Early Music Festival: it is the Festival's heart. Classes are available for most early music instruments, and range from Medieval to Baroque music. There are four periods a day, and you can choose the combination of classes that works for you -- perfect if, like some of our students, you sing or dance and play an instrument or two. Play in consorts of like or mixed instruments, investigate a new repertory, take a dance class, or begin a new instrument. We also offer a unique program in early notation for all levels starting with absolute beginner.
The fabulous team of Nina Stern, recorder, and frame drum master Glen Velez offer a very popular traditional music class and two levels of frame drumming. Music teachers can get documentation of their participation which can be used to get CEU's from their school systems.
The All-Workshop Collegium brings everybody together to sing and play large-scale choral masterpieces. This year's Collegium will be directed by Lawrence Lipnik (week 1) and Tom Zajac (week 2). In the evening, after classes, there are lectures, concerts, madrigal singing in the courtyard, English country dancing, drop-in playing sessions, the AEM Auction, and socializing with early music enthusiasts from all over the world. Pitch: most classes will be at a=440. Viol-only and most Baroque ensemble classes will be at a=415.
Detailed class descriptions and schedule will be available in early April. Classes run Monday through Friday. Saturday is a day of rehearsals and concerts, including student concerts featuring music prepared in class.
We have exciting plans for great music and good fun at the 2013 Festival, and we hope you’ll join us. Our supportive international faculty—great players and great teachers—will encourage and challenge you every step of the way.
New to the Festival? Fear not! Our open and inviting atmosphere will make you feel at home right away, and you’ll see why students return year after year.