Orchestral Workshop

Orchestral Workshop  – Directed by Rhiannon Evans

This orchestral workshop explores the vibrant sound world of Georg Muffat through his celebrated collection Armonico Tributo. These dazzling Baroque sonatas bridge Italian brilliance and French elegance, combining expressive harmonies, dance rhythms and joyful interplay between instrumental parts.

Designed for strings and non-transposing wind instruments at A440, this orchestral workshop offers players the opportunity to experience Baroque ensemble music in a dynamic and inclusive setting. Muffat’s music provides richly textured orchestral writing that is both colourful and spirited, making it ideal for collaborative exploration at summer school level.

Exploring Muffat, Lully and Corelli

In this orchestral workshop, participants will not only explore Armonico Tributo but also music by Muffat’s two principal influences:

• Jean-Baptiste Lully

• Arcangelo Corelli

By placing Muffat alongside Lully’s refined French dance style and Corelli’s Italian lyricism and structural clarity, the workshop reveals the rich cross-currents of late 17th-century orchestral music.

Players will develop:

• Baroque ensemble awareness and orchestral blend

• Confident rhythmic articulation in dance-based movements

• Expressive phrasing and harmonic sensitivity

• Collaborative communication across sections

This orchestral workshop welcomes adult string players and non-transposing wind instrumentalists who wish to deepen their experience of Baroque orchestral repertoire in a supportive, full-ensemble environment.

A440 Baroque Ensemble Experience

Working at modern concert pitch (A440), this orchestral workshop is accessible to players performing on modern instruments while maintaining stylistic awareness of historical performance practice. Under the direction of Rhiannon Evans, rehearsals will focus on clarity of texture, vitality of rhythm and the distinctive character that defines Muffat’s radiant orchestral writing.

Whether you are new to Baroque orchestral repertoire or looking to expand your ensemble experience, this orchestral workshop offers an inspiring opportunity to explore one of the most engaging composers of the late 17th century.