About us
Not so much a summer school as a summer holiday.
What is Variations? Variations is a week-long music break for amateur chamber music players.
The event takes place in the award-winning Macphail Centre, Mill Street, Ullapool, at the head of Loch Broom in the Scottish Highlands.
Masterclasses and clinics are also optional.
By enjoying such an intensive period of playing, we hope that you will enhance your skills and learn new repertoire, as well as enjoying the company and the surroundings.
Can I come as an individual, or do I have to be in an existing group? And how good do I have to be?
You can come either as an existing group or as an individual. On the booking form, we ask for some information on your standard, and we follow this up with a short questionnaire, so that the tutors can match you up with others of your level.
"...the right balance of seriousness, humour and encouragement"
"I gained a lot from the Quartet's advice..... I also liked the relaxed 'feel' to the course. It really put me at my ease."
Will I have time to explore the area?
If you’d like to have a rest from chamber music, and take advantage of the local environment, a range of other outdoor activities will be on offer – from guided hill walks and climbing in the spectacular mountains of the North West Highlands to loch and sea fishing, and boat trips to the Summer Isles. Each day's programme finishes at 5pm.
"We were spoiled, as things turned out."
And, after a day of music-making at the Macphail Centre, you can continue playing at the Ceilidh Place, or relax in one of the many bars and bistros. The Edinburgh Quartet will give two public concerts during the week, on the opening Saturday and Wednesday. A complimentary ticket for these concerts is included in your registration fee.
"I mainly enjoyed being thrown together with some new colleagues...however, close behind was the pleasure of being coached and learning how to be a better chamber music player."
How much does it cost? And what does the fee include?
The cost of the week is £380 per person, and this includes full buffet lunch and other refreshments during the day, admission to concerts and all the musical activities taking place during the week. If you book before 28 February 2010, you will qualify for the special early booking rate of £350.
There are substantial discounts for students and others who are unable to pay the full fee. To discuss, contact Helen Jamieson, Variations Manager on 07788 754160 or email info@variationsscotland.co.uk.
Please be aware that the cost of travel and accommodation is not included, but we can advise and assist you with your arrangements.
Space is limited so please make your booking as soon as possible! Bookings must be received by 30 June to guarantee your place.
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