For some time the Society has run annual day workshops for string orchestra. They are directed by Bob Chasey, from the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra, with whom the Society has developed an excellent relationship, and it gives string players an opportunity to play works, both well-known and less so, that might not otherwise arise very often. It also, naturally, enables players to focus on the various aspects of orchestral string technique presented in the work(s) studied, in an informal and unthreatening situation without the pressure of a performance.

Bob is a talented and experienced tutor who communicates his enthusiasm in a lively and humorous way. As a professional orchestral violinist he knows at first hand the difficulties that face string players, and an invaluable feature of his coaching is the helpful advice he gives us on how he and his colleagues tackle the music.

The next Strings Day is planned for the Spring of 2011. Details will be available from the Orchestra Manager nearer the time, and it will be open to all violin, viola, cello and double bass players of a reasonably competent standard.