At First Sight

Three Young People playing violins
Three Young People playing violins

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 playing level, rather than age, is the primary deciding factor in placement). Intermediate players are generally in Suzuki book 4 or 5, and Advanced are in book 6 or above.  Students older than 18 are welcome to apply. 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 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.

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 faculty discretion.

Girl playing violin
Boy playing violin
At First Sight Includes:
  • Sight-reading intensive
  • Coached chamber groups
  • Advanced and Intermediate orchestras
  • HausMusik (staff/student reading sessions)
  • Staff and Student performances
  • Community service performances
  • Private lesson options
  • Choice of extra-curricular classes/seminars
  • Descant (morning worship/hymn-singing)
  • Excellent coaches and teachers
  • Superb musical development in a short time
  • New musical friends
  • Expand musical repertoire with great music

 

 

At First Sight Schedule

Monday

    1:00 p.m. Check-in

    Orchestra Rehearsal

    2:30 p.m. Orientation meeting

    Chamber Group Sessions

    Welcome Picnic
    HausMusik (done by 8:30 p.m.)

Tuesday and Wednesday

    8:30 a.m. Descant

    Seminar and Orchestra

    Chamber Group sessions

    Sight-Reading sessions

    Evening – Master Class or Staff Concert

    HausMusik (done by 8:30 p.m.)

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

Four students who play violin
String Orchestra

Advanced Orchestra in concert June 23, 2023