

About At First Sight
At First Sight is an intensive five-day chamber music program designed for advanced and intermediate young string players, typically ages 13-18, (although ability, rather than age, is the primary deciding factor in placement). Pianists wishing to attend AFS must contact the director about conditions for entrance.
AFS devotes 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 several different chamber groups and the AFS Chamber Orchestra. Evenings include HausMusik–a delightful mix of students and staff playing chamber music together informally.
At First Sight focuses on the Giver of the gift of music. Morning 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 all ethnic backgrounds are welcome. At First Sight believes strongly that music at its heart should be non-competitive, and the atmosphere is intentionally cooperative.
At First Sight offers both advanced and intermediate levels in two simultaneous tracks. Each track has its own string orchestra, and unique chamber ensembles. The two tracks combine for sight-reading and for evening activities.
Students will be placed in the appropriate track based on playing experience, reading level, and teacher/staff discretion. Both levels should use the same application form, although request for a specific level can be noted at the top.


At First Sight Includes:
- Opportunities to learn and play great music
- New musical friends
- Excellent coaches and teachers
- Superb musical development and growth
- Coached chamber groups
- Sight-reading chamber groups
- Advanced and Intermediate Chamber Orchestras
- Master classes and seminars
- HausMusik (staff/student reading sessions)
- Descant (morning worship and singing)
- Ice-Breaker Picnic
- Staff and student performances
At First Sight Schedule
Monday
1:00 p.m. Check-in
Orchestra Rehearsal
Chamber Group sessions
Sight-Reading session
Ice Breaker Picnic, Orientation, HausMusik
Tuesday and Wednesday
8:30 a.m. Descant
Seminar and Orchestra
Chamber Group sessions
Sight-Reading sessions
Evening – Master Class or Staff Concert
HausMusik
Thursday
8:30 a.m. Descant
Chamber Group sessions
Sight-Reading sessions
Evening– AFS Chamber Ensemble Concert
Friday (done by 3:00)
8:30 a.m. Descant
Community Service Concerts
Pizza Feed
Large Ensembles concert


Advanced Orchestra in concert June 23, 2022

Advanced Orchestra in concert June 23, 2022