2010 Summer Schools (pdf)

Since 1993 Cambridge Early Music Summer Schools have welcomed adult musicians from all over the world to study the styles and techniques of early music by spending a week singing, playing and living with specialist ensembles. Our internationally-renowned tutors share their expertise through intensive tuition and concerts, in an informal social context. The atmosphere is friendly and non-competitive, and the setting is inspiring and tranquil. Now in our 18th year, and with hundreds of delighted comments in our visitors' book, CEM courses are well established as the highlight of the year for a growing number of professional and amateur instrumentalists and singers.

As usual, this year we offer two study weeks, one on Baroque, one on Renaissance music; both courses are for instrumentalists and singers working together and separately. The courses are directed by professional ensembles, equally respected and admired as teachers and as performers.

After four highly successful years in our new venue, the 2010 courses will again be held in Sidney Sussex College. Located in the historic heart of Cambridge, Sidney offers comfortable accommodation and elegant large rooms for music-making, within a compact, attractive and architecturally-distinguished college, founded in 1596, with beautiful gardens. It is within easy walking distance of excellent music- and book-shops and the concert venues.

Numbers on each course are limited, so please apply early to secure your place. Non-participating partners or friends who might like to join you during your stay at Sidney are welcome for bed and board. Observers, whether music specialists or complete novices, are also welcome. Participants will experience total immersion in early music, with expert tuition, in the delightful atmosphere of a historic Cambridge college. A prestigious series of concerts by some of Europe's finest specialist teachers and performers runs concurrently with the courses, for the benefit of participants and the general public (see Concerts).

We have a small Scholarship Fund to support those whose financial situation would prevent them from attending courses without assistance. We are particularly keen to encourage music students and those setting out on a career in music, for whom these courses will be exceptionally helpful. The Fund is generously supported by Judy Tarling through sales of her book, The Weapons of Rhetoric. The Eastern Early Music Forum also gives us a grant to help participants from Eastern regions (of Britain or Europe). Please think whether there is a way in which you could give similar support. For more information, see Bursaries.

You will be warmly welcomed on either - or both - of our courses in 2010.