Before returning to regular lessons and fall schedules, participants in the Rosamunde Summer Music Academy are looking to better their string playing through educational workshops, masterclasses, coachings and performance opportunities.
“It creates a great community that forms friendships and relationships,” says co-founder and artistic director Elation Pauls.
Founded in 2011, the summer string intensive offers a variety of programs for students ages 6 and up and boasts a faculty of outstanding performers and teachers.
This year, they welcome 65 participants over three streams: the mini-Rosies for the youngest players; the 10-day Core program geared towards music students aged 10-19; and the Rosamundiade for amateur musicians of all ages.
“Rosamunde is a totally different ballgame every year,” notes Pauls, who crafts individual schedules for each participant.
In addition to Winnipeg-based students – including a healthy contingent from the Sistema program – Rosamunde welcomes participants from as far away as British Columbia and Yellowknife, NT.
“It’s really inspirational for the students that are there and provides a really unique opportunity,” says Pauls.
The faculty of instructors features some of the city’s foremost string players, including members of the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra and Manitoba Chamber Orchestra.
MCO Concertmaster and WSO Associate Concertmaster Karl Stobbe has been involved in the initiative from the get-go.
“I knew I wanted to be part of (Rosamunde), and I knew I wanted to do whatever I could to help make it work,” says Stobbe. “I think it’s important for the kids. I think it’s important for Winnipeg. I think it’s important for music.”
Running from August 14 through 23, Rosamunde makes its home at the Canadian Mennonite University and provides not only instructional opportunities to staff and students but performance as well.
Rosamunde Festival
Throughout the week of August 19, the Student Concert Series will present a variety of performances in the Laudamus Auditorium and Great Hall. The events, free of charge, are open to the public and feature both solo and chamber repertoire selections.
On the evenings of August 20 and 22, the faculty concerts take place.
Titled “Flights to Eternity,” the concerts feature some of this year’s instructors, including distinguished guest faculty Annalee Patipatanakoon and Roman Borys of the renowned Gryphon Trio.
Concerts begin at 7 p.m. and feature a diverse selection of music each night.
Tickets are $25 in advance or $30 at the door.
To learn more, visit: www.rosamunde.ca
