We’re a small, friendly, and intensive chamber music mentorship residency for young musicians, offering one-on-one lessons, masterclasses, rehearsals, side-by-side coaching, and performance opportunities. The course takes place at historic properties in the magical Lake District National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage site in England.
LAKES SIDE X SIDE takes place in the breathtaking landscapes of the English Lake District, offering plenty of inspiration from its stunning surroundings.
We break down traditional barriers and hierarchies to foster an ethos of equality and inclusion, creating a sense of community where you can thrive and excel in a supportive and friendly environment.
Applications are open to young musicians aged 18–30 who are either studying at a conservatoire or equivalent, or who have recently graduated and are seeking professional development.
Collaborate as a team, connect with each other musically and with your surroundings, and be inspired to create exciting performances together.
WHAT?
- Daily side-by-side rehearsals of string & piano repertoire in preparation for public concerts during the residency
- Daily one-on-one lessons with your mentor tutor
- Participation in a public master class
- Opportunity to perform your own repertoire
- Informal read-through sessions of chamber repertoire
- Rehearsals with pianist (Steinway grand piano)
- Personal practice time
- Free time to enjoy the beauty of the surrounding countryside
- Connect with new friends and forge memories to last a lifetime
WHO?
Faculty:
- Anthony Hewitt, artistic director & piano
- Ning Kam, violin
- Thomas Carroll, cello
- Roberto Carillo-Garcia, double bass
For more information about our faculty, please visit the biography page.
There are a maximum of ten student places. Early enrolment is advised.
WHERE?
LAKES SIDE X SIDE takes place amidst the most beautiful and breathtaking landscapes of the England Lake District where you can take inspiration from the magnificent surroundings.
- Eccle Riggs, Foxfield, Cumbria
- Brantwood, Lake Coniston, Cumbria
(Approx two hours by train from Manchester Airport or 3 hrs by train from London Euston)
WHEN?
6-12 March, 2026
- Fri 6 March: arrival
- Sat 7 & Sun 8 March: all day at Eccle Riggs
- Mon 9 & Tues 10 March 9-10: all day at Brantwood (includes daily concerts)
- Wed 11 March: final concert performance in Ulverston
- Thur 12 March: excursion day (optional)
- Fri 13: departure
WHY?
Would you like to expand your chamber repertoire, hone your technical skills and evolve your musicianship playing alongside some of the most sought-after chamber players on the European scene? Improve your confidence in rehearsals, learn how to convey your ideas and have input and influence on the interpretation of a piece.
We break down the traditional barriers and hierarchies to create an ethos of equality and inclusion, fostering a sense of community and working together as a team where you can flourish and excel within a supportive and friendly environment.
LAKES SIDE X SIDE takes place along the shores of Coniston Water, an exquisite and peaceful environment a world away from the stresses of modern, urban life. Time takes on a different proportion, giving you the space and freedom to breathe, press the reset button, set new priorities, and take inspiration from the stunning scenery.
HOW TO APPLY
£750 all-inclusive, on a full-board basis, with shared accommodation (twin rooms). Limited scholarship funds are available.
To be considered for selection:
- Submit a video of at least 20 mins duration, consisting of up to three works of contrasting style. This may be either solo or chamber music repertoire. Upload your video to YouTube and insert your link on the application form. Your video does NOT need to be professional quality or from a public concert – smart phone quality will be acceptable – but please ensure you can be heard and seen clearly and that the acoustic is favourable and enhances your playing.
- Click on this link and fill-in the application form – the form will appear in a new browser window.
Applications are currently open to young musicians aged 18-30 either studying at conservatoire or equivalent or who have recently graduated and are seeking professional development and consultation.
Completed application forms should be submitted no later than Friday 30 January 2026.
PLEASE NOTE – APPLICATIONS HAVE NO CLOSED