The Institute of Performance Practice of the University of Music Trossingen invites all students in Early Music from around the world to participate and present themselves in a chamber music competition on October 9th – 13th 2024, in Trossingen (Germany). The qualities of ensemble playing and dealing with the many questions of the historically informed performance will be the central themes of the competition. The participating ensembles will have the opportunity to present themselves to a highly renowned jury, to win prizes and to play the final concert with broadcasting of the SWR.
In music the four-part composition used to be the ultimate form. Although a four-part texture seems to be heavier and less transparent, it is not surprising that very shortly before 1600 the first trio sonata became popular. Compared to the four-part writing the sound is lighter and the two upper voices can be set up in virtuoso lines and figurations. This genre runs like a golden thread over many decades until – in the form of piano-/string-/wind- or singing trios – until the middle of the 19th century.
In our international chamber music competition “À tre ” we will even go one step further:
No matter how many musicians are on stage – the music must have three composed lines, played by at least three musicians or more. On the other hand, there will be strict regulations: We do not accept arrangements! Apart from that anything is allowed which creates unique musical moments and varied programs, e.g. from a traditional trio sonata of the early times until the piano trio from the 1830s.
The emphasis of the competition lies in “historical performance practice” abilities and in the qualities of ensemble playing. Therefore, appropriate instruments are required: the jury does not accept modernised instruments. Violins, Violas, Cellos, and Violone with gut strings only.
A program of 1-hour duration should be prepared, of which the participating ensemble can choose a piece for the first round
The competition is open to All present students in Early Music, as well as former students who finished their studies in 2022 or later.
Registration deadline 20 August
