¡Viva el Bajo! will host the second edition of the Pan American Double Bass Summer Institute in June, 2012, at the University of Texas Pan American in Edinburg, Texas.
The Institute has been designed as an intensive week-long program when students will receive over 40 hours of instruction, through daily technique sessions, solo classes, workshops, chamber music coaching and performances.
The curriculum was organized with the students’ needs in mind. All activities will help students develop technical skills and learn how to solidify the fundamentals of string playing – good intonation, clear tone and proper articulation.
With a limited number of students admitted, the Institute will have a low student-faculty ratio to allow for greater one-on-one contact between students and faculty. To be accepted, students must have at least one solo work ready for study and subsequent performance, as well as the willingness to commit time for practicing and learning new bass ensemble repertoire. Students will be required to submit a teacher’s recommendation form along with their application.
The Institute will offer students individual coaching sessions with a professional pianist, as well as workshops on subjects related to performance and practice, led by renowned guests and artists in residence at the University of Texas Pan American.
Students working on the Texas All-State and All-Region Orchestra materials will have workshops and mock-auditions specially planned to help solidify the skills necessary to perform a successful audition.
By observing and learning how to develop consistent practice habits, students will in turn discover their path for technical mastery of the instrument, allowing them to have a solid approach to solo and ensemble playing.
Recitals highlighting the work students will accomplish during the Institute will be held on Saturday, June 30th at UTPA Fine Arts Complex Recital Hall.
It will be a great opportunity to experience musical growth and meet like-minded bass players!
George Amorim
Director
