Experience the rich repertoire from the Renaissance and Baroque period appropriate to these early stringed instruments. Fall Semester begins in September!

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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.

Powers has a collection of seventeen viols available for rent. Viol consort classes meet weekly, and placement is made in consultation with the instructor. Repertoire is drawn from Renaissance dance music, madrigals, and fantasias from the 16th and 17th centuries, with a special emphasis on English consort music. 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. 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.

Fall 2017 - Spring 2018

Adults

Academic Year: September - May, 24 weeks per year (12 weeks per semester)

Instructor: Jane Hershey

Times:

•  Tuesdays, 11:30 am - 1:00 pm 
• Tuesdays, 1:30 pm - 3:00 pm 

Tuition:
90-minute Consorts: $1,020 per year

Consorts are full-year programs, however, new students entering mid-year will receive prorated tuition.

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