Encounter is a five-day chamber music program designed for intermediate string students, typically of late middle-school to early high-school age. Like At First Sight, EnCounter has its own string orchestra and chamber ensembles.  EnCounter and At First Sight combine for sight-reading and evening activities. Students will be placed in the appropriate track based on playing experience, reading level, and faculty discretion.

Being accepted into EnCounter (intermediate) means you are a solid player, capable in sight-reading, perhaps without a lot of experience in ensemble playing. You might be in a youth orchestra or church orchestra. In your lessons, you are learning student concertos and technique training, and are becoming a confident player. EnCounter students split their time between orchestra and chamber experiences as well as classwork in other areas of music.

EnCounter and At First Sight both devote a significant amount of time to sight-reading, in addition to technique training and performance skills, vital to developing fine musicianship. During the workshop each student participates in different chamber groups and the EnCounter Chamber Orchestra. Evenings include HausMusik–a delightful mix of students and staff playing chamber music together informally.

EnCounter, like all other classes at AFS, focuses on God, the source of the gift of music.  Our morning begins with Descant, which includes worship and hymn singing, sets the tone for each day. In order for students to share their gifts with others, community service concerts are part of the AFS schedule.  AFS is non-denominational.  Students of all faiths and backgrounds are welcome. At First Sight believes strongly that music at its heart should be cooperative, and thus the atmosphere is intentionally non-competitive.