Experience the rich repertoire from the Renaissance and Baroque period appropriate to these early stringed instruments. Spring semester begins in January!

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The viola da gamba, or “viola of the leg,” comes in three sizes, similar to the violin family: treble, tenor and bass. The bass is the size of a small cello, but all three sizes are played resting in the lap or between the knees, with an underhand bow hold. With six strings with a tuning close to that the guitar, the viola da gamba, also, known as the viol, also has frets.

The music for the viola da gamba, mostly from the Renaissance and Baroque periods, is full of variety and invention, and it has a growing contemporary repertoire as well. Repertoire is drawn from Renaissance dance music, madrigals, and fantasias from the 16th and 17th centuries, with a special emphasis on English consort music.

Placement for viol consorts is made in consultation with the instructor. Both group and private lessons are available for people of all ages who would like to widen their musical horizons by exploring the delights of playing the viol.

Powers has a collection of seventeen viols available for rent. The viola da gamba (also known as the viol) is an excellent instrument for children - Powers waives its rental fees for children who would like to try the viol by taking lessons. 

Spring 2019

Adults

Fall Semester: 4, 5, 8, or 12 weeks (varies by consort)

Instructor: Jane Hershey

Tuition:

• Viol Consort 1: $570 per semester (plus $20 fall registration fee)
• Viol Consort 2: $400 per semester (plus $20 fall registration fee)
• Viol Consort 3: $325 per semester (plus $20 fall registration fee)
• Viol Consort 4: $212.50 per semester (plus $20 fall registration fee)

Discounts:
Any Powers private lesson students will receive a 10% discount on viol consort tuition.

Consort Times:

Viol Consort 1
Tuesdays, 11:30 am - 1:00 pm, meets 12 weeks per semester
Fantasias, dance music, and madrigals for experienced viol players; Open to continuing students only

Viol Consort 2
Tuesdays, 1:30 pm - 3:00 pm, meets 8 weeks per semester
Fantasias, dance music, and madrigals for experienced viol players; Open to new students

Viol Consort 3 (Advanced)
Tuesdays, 10:15 - 11:15 am, meets 8 weeks per semester
An advanced consort focusing mainly on 16th century music; Open to new students

Viol Consort 4 (Ensemble Skills)
Wednesdays, 11:30 am - 1:00 pm, meets 4 weeks per semester
Focusing on ensemble skills for viol players; Open to new students

Ready to Register? Use the button below to register online, or call the Registrar at 617-484-5750.