Amateur Chamber Music Retreat

april 22-25, 2027

A welcoming weekend of chamber music, collaboration, and friendships for adult amatuer musicians. Designed for string players and pianists who love to play and share music in a relaxed, supportive environment.

Please note: A major Garth Newel campus renovation project has been scheduled for September 2026 through February 2027. Due to construction timeline uncertainties, retreat dates may be subject to change. For updates, please contact Teresa Ling at tling@garthnewel.org

About the Retreat I Experience & Study I Faculty I Register / Fees I Lodging

About the Retreat

The Chamber Music Retreat is designed for adult string players and pianists — and occasionally other instrumentalists — who enjoy making music and want to deepen their chamber music skills while sharing the experience with old and new friends. No professional experience is required or expected.

Participants spend a long weekend immersed in music-making at Garth Newel, with time for rehearsal, learning, performance, recreation, and conversation. Preference is given to pre-formed groups during registration.

The Retreat Experience

Retreat Experience

  • Chamber music coachings with experienced faculty

  • Rehearsals and reading sessions with fellow participants

  • A final performance by retreat groups

  • Seminars and guided discussions

  • Shared meals, recreation, and informal conversation

Topics of Study

  • Ensemble playing

  • Listening skills

  • Rehearsal and practice techniques

  • Intonation

  • Rhythm

  • Musical interpretation

THE RETREAT Faculty

The retreat is led by the Garth Newel Piano Quartet, who provide coachings and guidance throughout the weekend.

The Garth Newel Piano Quartet

  • Teresa Ling, violin

  • Fitz Gary, viola

  • Isaac Melamed, cello

  • Jeannette Fang, piano


stay at
Garth Newel

On-site lodging is available for participants attending programs at Garth Newel, along with nearby accommodations in the surrounding area. Staying on property allows musicians to fully immerse themselves in the program and the natural setting of the estate. Program participants are welcome to inquire about on-site lodging availability during the registration process.

 
 

PROGRAM SUPPORT

This program is made possible, in part, through the support of Associated Chamber Music Players (ACMP), an international organization dedicated to fostering chamber music for pleasure.

 

Registration & Fees

Applications open November 14 at 12:00pm EST


Retreat Fee: $425

The retreat fee includes all chamber music coachings, seminars, performances, meals, and snacks throughout the weekend.

 

PROGRAM Contact

For retreat information or updates, please contact:

Teresa Ling, tling@garthnewel.org

MORE EDUCATION PROGRAMS

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    Emerging Artist Fellowship Program

    A fully funded summer chamber music fellowship for outstanding young string players and pianists ages 18–28.

  • Allegheny Mountain String Project

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    A tuition-free string program serving youth through classical and Appalachian music traditions.

  • Residencies and Music in the Schools

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