I would like to tell you what I thought about the Seminar.

It was amazing to have the opportunity to play in the quintet, octet, and concerto for 4 violins, as I have only had the chance to play in string quartets in the past. I thank you for providing us the opportunity to play such fantastic music in such an intimate group setting.

The coaches were all very nice, and I learned a great deal from them this week. I also enjoyed playing in the masterclasses, as I don't get the opportunity to do that very often. All the music selections were wonderful, and I enjoyed not only playing my own music, but getting to listen to other groups playing all around me, and hearing such a variety of music.

It was so much fun! I think part of chamber music is really getting to know the others in your group and learning how to respond to them in your music, and whenever we practiced together, we got closer to each other. It really meant a lot to me to be able to work together like that.

This week at the Chamber Music Seminar has inspired me. I have realized how much I love playing in chamber ensembles, and I would like to do more of it. I am already planning ways that my friends and I can get together and play in similar groups, and maybe even perform. I know that I can take what I learned at Seminar and expand on it!

I look forward to the Chamber Music Seminar next summer!

Caroline Stephenson, violin, Wheeling, WV