Workshops

Cascadia Viols holds quarterly in-person workshops, as well as online mini-workshops throughout each year. Our events are led by professional violists, who are invited to develop a musical theme and teach the music to attendees on a single day. Workshop themes may revolve entirely around a specific composer, musical style, or could be focused on a specific technical aspect of viol playing. The main purpose of our workshops is to allow players the opportunity to play in a consort and work on accessible and more challenging music in a safe and non-judgmental environment.

All workshops take place at St. Michael’s & All Angels Church 1704 NE 43rd Ave, Portland OR unless otherwise specified. Proof of vaccination required

In-Person Workshop Fees: $50 for Members | $65 for Non-Members.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum playing level required to attend?

During the workshop registration process, players will be asked to self-identify their playing level, using the Viola da Gamba Society of America’s rating system. Although our events are accessible to most playing levels, players should have a good understanding of their instrument, including fingerings, bowing, string crossings, as well as be proficient at reading sheet music.

What is the typical schedule?

Our in-person workshops begin at 9:30am and end at 4:30pm (including a one-hour lunch break) at St. Michael and All Angels Church at 1704 NE 43rd Ave in Portland, Oregon. Depending on the theme prepared by the professional presenter, we will either remain in a large group throughout the entire day, or begin in a large group and break into smaller groups in the afternoon. Attendees will be put into split groups based on their self-identified playing level during registration.

How will I receive the music?

Registration closes 7 days prior to the workshop date posted on our website. Attendees will then receive an email containing log-in information to download the music from our website. Included in the files is a part-assignment document, which will list all the workshop attendees and their part assignments.

Do you take health precautions?

Yes! All attendees must be vaccinated for COVID-19, and must be able to provide proof of vaccination if asked by the workshop staff. Although we do not currently mandate mask usage, we monitor Multnomah County health guidance, and will adjust our guidelines based upon professional health information available. If you have any concerns, please feel free to reach out to us at info@cascadiaviols.org

What if I register but am unable to attend?

As the experience of the other players at the workshop depends on the attendance of everyone, we ask that you please inform us at info@cascadiaviols.org as soon as you know you are unable to attend. Of course, we ask that any person who feels too unwell to attend to please stay home. If you are unable to attend, you will be offered a full refund of your registration fee or you can donate the fee to Cascadia viols if you wish.

2023 – 2024 Presenters

Josh Lee | October 7, 2023

Adaiah MacAdam-Somer | December 16, 2023

Loren Ludwig | January 13, 2024

Zoe Weiss | February 15, 2024

Shanon Zusman | March 23, 2024

Holborne’s Fascination Rhythms: selections from Holborne’s 1599 publication: Pavans, Galliards, Almains and other Short Airs.

Anthony Holborne (c. 1545 – 1602) was a composer during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, and was a celebrated by his contemporaries, like John Dowland. This workshop will focus on Holborne’s pavans, galliards, almains, and other short airs from his 1599 publication. Geared to: all levels and instrument sizes welcome. Pitch: A=415

William Skeen | May 11, 2024

Explore 4-part canzoni by Claudia Rusca!

Claudia Rusca was an early 17th century Italian nun that composed until she went into the convent.  Only a small amount of her music has survived and I’m excited to share it with you!