Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama (RWCMD) is throwing open its doors for the Big Strings Weekend (October 17–19), a vibrant festival that champions accessibility and world-class talent.
It’s more than just a series of concerts; it’s a commitment to ensuring every young person, regardless of background, can experience the joy of string music. You can catch internationally renowned cellist Jacob Shaw, see viral violinist Roberts Balanas perform a brand new arrangement of ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ and take part in free workshops alongside musicians from BBC National Orchestra of Wales. It’s the perfect event for music lovers, from complete beginners to budding professionals.
The weekend celebrates the first year of RWCMD’s innovative strings residency, which places world-class ensembles like the Carducci and Fibonacci Quartetsat the centre of its teaching and community outreach. Visitors can expect everything from classical masterworks to contemporary sounds, folk traditions and jazz collaborations.
“Every time I come to RWCMD, I’m inspired by the energy of the students and the sense of possibility here. The Big Strings Weekend is about sharing that inspiration with the next generation of string players – and its eclectic mix certainly lives up to that,” says Jacob Shaw.
Highlights include:
- Jacob Shaw, RWCMD International Chair of Cello and Founder of the Scandinavian Cello School, working with College students. Performing alongside cellist Johannes Gray and the RWCMD String Soloists.
- Viral violinist and social media superstar Roberts Balanas performing a brand-new, arrangement of Queen’s ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ specially created to celebrate the iconic song’s 50th anniversary, playing with RWCMD’s String Soloists.
- The Carducci Quartet bringing music and the spoken word together on a folk-inspired journey celebrating diverse cultures.
- A free AmserJazzTime performance featuring Dominic Ingham and College jazz students.
Simon Jones, Head of String Performance at RWCMD, notes, “We want to promote inclusivity and community engagement. Welcoming students at all stages of development to share inspirational experiences with other learners, college students and top professionals.”
The event is packed with free, practical opportunities for young people and beginners, including:
- The Big Play: A mass participation event where anyone can pick up an instrument and make music alongside professional musicians from the BBC National Orchestra of Wales.
- Taster Sessions: Visitors can try instruments beyond the violin or cello, including the viola and double bass.
- Workshops: Inclusive sessions with leading artists like Mary Condliffe, WNO Principal Dunia Ershova, Dominic Ingham and Roberts Balanas (who is hosting a free workshop for Grade 3+).
- Audition Advice: Sessions providing an introduction to studying at RWCMD.
From those taking their very first steps into the world of string music right up to those on the verge of conservatoire study, are warmly encouraged to take part in this unique celebration of opportunity, collaboration and expertise.
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