Chamber Music
Chamber Music is of central importance in the development of musicianship, ensemble skills, communication and rehearsal skills, as well as stylistic awareness and the development of a versatile technique.
The skills learnt through chamber music are likely to form a core part of a career as a professional musician: professional orchestras are always on the lookout for musicians with good chamber music experience. Pianists will almost certainly collaborate in their professional lives, as ensemble players, song accompanists, concerto soloists or in an orchestra. As such, it takes a core place in Conservatoire life.
Mentoring, Coaching and Performing
All string players will be helped to form chamber music ensembles and will receive mentoring and coaching as well as regular opportunities to perform.
The Conservatoire has on its staff some of the most experienced chamber music players and coaches in the country and internationally.
Masterclasses
In addition, there are masterclasses and coaching opportunities from visiting groups, often when they are performing at Birmingham Town Hall, or as part of the Conservatoire's own festivals.
We also believe in providing a range of side-by-side opportunities to enable students to play alongside experienced chamber musicians.
Chamber Music Festivals
Birmingham International Piano Chamber Music Festival and Competition took place at RBC in 2022, followed by a festival in 2023 involving collaborations with the Castalian Quartet.
This year sees further events including a festival on chamber music works with period pianos, and a celebration of chamber music by Beethoven.
Auditions
Find out more about the audition process and requirements for the department.
Our courses
Undergraduate
The BMus (Hons) degree at Royal Birmingham Conservatoire will help you to realise your potential and prepare you for a career in the music profession.
Apply for undergraduatePostgraduate
Specialist support in principal study areas and career management, designed to provide you with the experience, skills, and knowledge needed for a musical career.
Apply for postgraduateEnsembles
Associate ensembles and ensembles in residence help students with their development as chamber musicians.
Our ensemblesTutorial staff
We have a variety of tutors who provide specialist teaching and advice within the Chamber Music department at RBC.
Our tutorsStaff spotlight
Oliver Wille is International Chair in Chamber Music and 2nd Violin the The Kuss Quartet.
He is the vice president and artistic advisor of the Chamber Music Society Hannover, and works as artistic director at a new string quartet festival in Frankfurt.