Auditing

If you want to play chamber music without being coached, you can attend the Conference as an auditor. Auditing appeals to both newcomers and returnees who do not have the time to prepare pieces for coaching sessions, who cannot spend an entire week at the Conference, or who want to play chamber music without coaching.

Playing Sessions

Auditors can spend as much time as they wish in free-play sessions. We provide auditors and part-time attendees (coached participants with less-than-full coaching schedules) with a list of other auditors and part-time attendees at the same week, but beyond this we do not assist in forming free-play groups. It is possible that on some days there will not be enough available players for auditors and part-time attendees to form groups while the coached participants are in their coaching sessions.

Because the coaching schedule in week 1 provides very limited time for free play, we recommend that auditors seeking free-play opportunities apply for week 2, 3, or 4.

Outside of coaching sessions, auditors and participants have equal opportunity to form groups with each other and with those faculty members who are available for informal playing. For auditors interested in organizing groups, we recommend attending the coffee breaks, as these offer good opportunities to arrange to play with people throughout the week.

Observing Coaching Sessions

As an auditor, you may observe coaching sessions, which can be a particularly rewarding experience. A schedule of coaches, compositions, and rooms is posted. We ask auditors who choose this option to consult with the coach of the group in advance and to enter the coaching room before the session begins, since entering late can disrupt the flow of the session. Leaving early is permissible as long as it is done quietly and during an appropriate moment in the session. During the coaching session itself, auditors do not actively participate in any way other than to listen, learn, and enjoy the music and the opportunity to watch a professional faculty member at work with the participants.

Other Activities

There is no obligation for auditors to play in each session. Many auditors reserve some time for quiet reading, walking, and enjoying the many activities available in the area. See our Beyond Music page for information about activities at and around Colgate University.