The Radcliffe Trust helped fund the Summer Academy for young artists at Britten Pears Arts. At the academy, twenty early career classical musicians enjoyed two weeks of intensive training, including three string quartets, four pianists, three composers, and one percussionist.
Training was designed and led by Associate Director Ryan Wigglesworth, with collaboration and combination at its heart. It included ten public masterclasses and 5 recitals. Young artists formed new ensembles and worked with composers to explore and develop pieces. Tutors brought a huge range of expertise and perspectives that enriched the young artists’ experience.
It was a great experience to work for two weeks intensely as a quartet. The quality and beauty of the space, both outside and inside in Snape, really stood out. There was all this inspiration around (nature, art exhibitions, concerts, other musicians and of course working with our tutors). Then also rich personalities, meeting beautiful new people, and a good check on technique on the instrument, with great inputs from great musicians.
Three young artist composers workshopped draft pieces alongside the young artist ensembles and tutors, and input from composers Mark Simpson and Mr Wigglesworth. They each had one piece performed in the final concert: two string quartets and a piece for two pianos.
Summer Academy was unforgettable. Almost everything exceeded my expectations – definitely the amount of lessons, but also just the amazing people that were all here on the course. And everyone was so warm and inviting – I couldn’t have asked for a better two weeks. It’s given me hope, renewed dedication, and so much inspiration for the next leg of my journey. Seeing so many musicians just a little older than me walk their own paths was incredibly fulfilling and inspirational to watch.