The Expressive Violist

Finding Freedom in Performance and Practice

Directed by Rachel Roberts

About the course

How do we create the sound we imagine? What makes a phrase truly speak? How can we approach a difficult passage with curiosity and a clear sense of purpose? Join Rachel Roberts for an inspiring exploration of the viola’s expressive possibilities, discovering how imagination, technique and thoughtful practice can help you play with greater freedom and confidence. From warmth and intimacy to brilliance and dramatic intensity, the viola offers an extraordinary range of musical expression. Through demonstrations, individual coaching and shared discovery, Rachel will help participants connect their musical ideas with practical approaches to sound, technique, interpretation and performance.

Who is it for?

For amateur violists, music students and emerging professionals who want to deepen their musical expression and refresh their approach to practice. This is an advanced course: participants should read music confidently and be comfortable preparing a piece independently. No formal qualification is required; curiosity, openness and willingness to explore are essential.

What to expect

Participants will take part in practical group sessions and receive individual coaching within the group, learning through their own playing and by listening to others. Across the week, work on sound, bowing and phrasing will connect with strategies for purposeful practice and confident performance. You do not need to arrive with a polished performance: a work in progress can offer just as much scope for discovery. The emphasis is on individual development, supportive listening and a shared enthusiasm for the viola. Participants will leave with practical strategies tailored to their own playing, fresh musical perspectives and renewed inspiration for their practice and performance.

Practical information