Summer Symposium Track Descriptions

All symposium students participate in group sessions at the beginning and end of each day. In between they will split off into the following tracks.

Chamber Music

Students enrolled in the chamber music track will be placed in a chamber music ensembles (duo, trio, quartet, etc.) with other students at a similar playing level. 2 week students will perform both a traditional and modern piece at the symposium, while 2nd week only students may only perform one piece. Modern pieces may be premiers of symposium composition students’ new works! Throughout the day students will take part in chamber music enrichment classes, guided rehearsals, and coachings with faculty members. Chamber music develops a students ability to listen and respond to each other for timing and balance, and their ability to negotiate interpretive choices a group.

Composition

Students enrolled in composition will work with LAM faculty to compose short pieces during their first week of the symposium. Pieces will be written for chamber track students. The symposium is unique in that it gives them plenty of time to develop creatively while also building community and having the opportunity to work with the performers they are writing for. Student composer pieces will be premiered at the symposium showcase. Composers will develop skills in shaping musical material, notating ideas effectively, and collaborating with performers to bring their music to life.

Audio Production

Students enrolled in audio production track will learn the fundamentals of recording, editing and producing. Students will learn how to record various audio sources - focusing on microphone selection, placement and the use of field recorders. Students will apply their skills by assisting in recording, editing, and producing by the final Symposium performance. Audio production students will develop skills in music technology, ear training, and build familiarity with with equipment and editing software.

The 2 Week Combinations:

  1. Chamber-Chamber: Students will the practice and perform both a traditional and modern work at the student showcase.

  2. Composition-Production: In week 1 students will compose new works for premiere by chamber groups and in week 2 they will assist in recording and producing the final recordings. Week 2 will meet Tuesday - Sunday to allow for a production day following the showcase.

  3. Composition-Chamber: In week 1 students will compose new works for premiere by chamber groups and in week 2 they will be placed in a chamber group and perform a work at the showcase.