The Galway Music Residency (GMR) is inviting applications from chamber ensembles for its Apprentice Ensemble Programme 2018/19.

MENTORSHIP
Now in its 13th year, the Apprentice Ensemble Programme is rooted in GMR’s commitment to community and education projects, and provides advanced instrumental students and young professionals an opportunity to further their experience of ensemble playing. During their time on the programme, September 2018 – May 2019, the ensemble(s) will be mentored and advised on a monthly basis by members of the Galway ConTempo Quartet.

NEW IN 2018/19!
In a new departure for the programme in 2018/19, GMR is partnering with Music for Galway to provide the selected ensemble(s) an opportunity to attend workshops with visiting artists featured in the Music for Galway concert series (www.musicforgalway.ie).

PERFORMANCE OPPORTUNITIES
A significant part of the programme is the performance opportunities provided to participants. The ensemble(s) will take part in two core performances during their time on the programme: an Apprentice Ensemble Winter Recital in January 2019 and a concert as part of the Music for Galway Lunchtime series in April/May 2019. The ensemble(s) may also be offered a number of other performance opportunities as they arise.

CONTEMPORARY REPERTOIRE
There is a particular focus on exploring the works of Irish composers and, with this in mind, the ensemble(s) will prepare a piece from the Contemporary Music Centre’s catalogue during the programme.

WHO CAN APPLY?
The programme is open to existing groups wanting to further enrich their experience of ensemble playing. It may also suit established musicians or teachers coming together as an ensemble for the first time. This year we are also opening the programme to junior ensembles based in Galway city and county; a junior ensemble would consist of participants of 19 years and younger who have not yet begun their third level music studies who living in Galway city or county. Any combination of instruments is welcome to apply; over the years GMR has hosted many different groupings, including a cello duo, two saxophone quartets, a flute and harp duo, a guitar quartet, flute & voice duo, a baroque ensemble, etc. Priority will be given to those who can best demonstrate that this programme will be of significant value to them in their current and future career/musical development. Applicants must be able to commit for the full year (Sep 18 – May 19) including a number of set workshops and performances.

HOW TO APPLY?
To apply, please complete the application form here https://galwaymusicresidency.typeform.com/to/p6T8bl or download it from www.thegalwaymusicresidency.ie. Closing date for applications is 12 noon on Friday 27th April with auditions scheduled in Galway during the week beginning 21st May.

For further information please contact Maeve Bryan, Operations Manager; tel: +353 91 586706 or email [email protected].
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It is one of the best things a young musician in Ireland could do […] to keep developing performance skills and confidence.
- Feedback from Apprentice Ensemble Programme participant, April 2016