“From the time it was invented in the 16th century to the present day, this small four-stringed instrument called the violin has inspired great composers and virtuosos to create music that embodies the essence of European culture.

To remain this successful for over four centuries the violin and its bow needed to adapt and change constantly and with them the playing technique. 

The aim of this course is to discover different ways of thinking about music and the changes in aesthetic concepts from early Baroque to Classical. Using historical instruments and different playing techniques for a wide range of styles will help us experience and play the music in a surprisingly fresh and direct way.

At this point I also want to encourage players of modern violin to take part in this course by trying to use gut strings and Baroque/Early Classical bows”.

A workshop dedicated to the preparation of Antonio Vivaldi’s “The celebrating Seine” RV 693 will be an integral part of the course. The serenade will be performed in concert within the Chigiana International Festival 2022 (September 2nd, Church of Sant’Agostino).

The entrance examination is by video audition only. A video recording must be sent along with the application form. 

In order to demonstrate a sufficient level of practical execution, candidates must present a video of their playing one or more pieces, to be freely selected from the significant works of the Baroque repertoire.