ABOUT US

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Frequently Asked Questions

How old do I have to be to join Pro Corda?

Pro Corda accepts young string players and pianists from the age of 8 on its residential courses. You can stay in Pro Corda until the age of 18. There are non- residential courses called Young Music Makers for children aged 5-10 which take place during the Preparatory course in May and Pro Corda West in August. You do not have to audition for these courses.

How do I apply for an audition?

You can apply online or download an application form on www.procorda.com

If you need to find out further information you can ring the Pro Corda office on 01728 831354 or email: mail@procorda.com

When and where are auditions held?

Audition dates are published on Pro Corda's website. There are several audition days each year and auditions are held all over the country. You can audition in Birmingham, London, Manchester and Wells.

What do I have to play in my audition?

 

You are expected to play two contrasting pieces with scales of you own choice. There will also be sight reading and aural tests. 

 

When will I hear if I have been successful?

 

Results are sent out within a week of the audition day.

 

Where are courses held?

 

Pro Corda's home is Leiston Abbey in Suffolk. Courses are held here each school holiday. We also hold courses in Yorkshire and Somerset once a year during the summer holidays.

 

Will I receive music before the course?

 

Music is sent out a month before courses at Leiston Abbey. This gives you time to practise your parts, to listen to recordings, and get to know the work by reading a score.

 

How many ensembles will I play in on a course?

 

You will play in a minimum of two ensembles which receive coaching each day. From the age of 12 groups begin to rehearse on their own before lessons so that a sense of ownership can be established. There is also a String Orchestra which rehearses once a day.

 

What else will I be involved in?

 

There are many projects which happen alongside the main ensemble activities. Pro Corda aims to give students a good background in all aspects of music making in an enjoyable and encouraging atmosphere.

 

There are musicianship classes, improvisation sessions and composition projects, all of which are very popular. Choir and Dalcroze Eurhythmics make up the rest of the day for students aged 8-14. In July 2005 the Primary course performed a section of Britten's "Midsummer Night's Dream"

 

Will I have time to relax?

 

Ample time is set aside each day for students to have fun amongst themselves. Games are organised and there are quiz nights, talent shows, video nights, and fancy dress parties. Weather permitting, we will organise occasional  visits to the beaches of Aldeburgh and Southwold.

 

I have to eat a special diet. Will that be catered for?

 

Yes. Your parents or guardians fill in a form letting us know of any special dietary requirements.

 

Who looks after me when I am not in coaching sessions?

 

There is a Matron and two helpers on each course. They are always on duty during breaks to provide drinks and biscuits. Matron is always at hand to look after you if you need any medical help.

 

Will I get the chance to play in a concert?

 

There are always concerts during courses and on the last day of a course. There are informal concerts in which you can play a solo or a chamber work which you might have been rehearsing on your own. There are composition project concerts as well. The final day concert is divided into two sections, one half before lunch and the other after lunch. All courses end with a work played by the String Orchestra. Pro Corda would very much like each student to play in at least one chamber music work in the final day concert.

 

Will I have a chance to play with my Pro Corda ensembles elsewhere?

 

Pro Corda has a long tradition of being invited to give concerts in all parts of the UK. In 2005 ensembles played at Festivals in Manchester, Cambridge, and Lincoln. At the end of the year four senior ensembles toured the Czech Republic. Gala Concerts involving the whole of Pro Corda are held at the Dukes Hall, Royal Academy of Music, London.

 

How can I continue my association with Pro Corda after I leave?

 

Once you have left your name is entered into the Alumni database. In July 2005 Pro Corda held its first Alumni course. Old friends came back to enjoy each other's company, play chamber music, give outreach concerts at local Schools, and relive memories at the wonderful site in Leiston Abbey. Many Pro Corda Alumni also attend the Musical Encounters course (19-26). This is a course specifically designed for Music College and University ensembles. String Quartets of International standing, such as the Wihan and Chilingirian Quartets coach on this course.