ISQ Workshop
photo by Sean Deyoe
General Info
The Isaura String Quartet is offering free remote workshops for anyone interested in writing for strings (violin, viola, cello). Workshops can include examinations of any work in progress, general questions about how to write for strings and string techniques, or even discussion of a concept that you would like to develop. Priority will be given to collaborations with people of color; queer, trans, and disabled people; and to those who identify as low-income and might not otherwise have access to string players to workshop and record their music. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis.
Each composer collaboration will span up to three weeks and will include:
Week 1: one remote workshop, up to 1.5-hours, with ISQ via Zoom
Week 2: one remote workshop, up to 1.5-hours, with ISQ via Zoom
Week 3: a remote pre-recording check-in to go over any edits and final questions in preparation for a demo recording* of up to 15 minutes of music, recorded remotely by ISQ
*Please Note: We’re all recording from separate locations! This means that we will make a unique plan with each composer to fulfill your needs as best we can under these circumstances.
Who are we?
We are the Isaura String Quartet – a nonprofit organization founded and led by white female, nonbinary, and queer artists. Based in Los Angeles, our ensemble is dedicated to the promotion of contemporary chamber music through live performance, workshops, and collaborative projects with composers and interdisciplinary artists.
Why is this project important to us?
We want to share our experience as a string ensemble to offer a space for exploration and collaboration – in particular, to people for whom traditional paths of musical education are not accessible and/or applicable to their goals.
Classical music’s institutions of education, networking, and performance conventions are built upon foundations that continue to reinforce systemic racism, ableism, and gender discrimination.
The voices currently underrepresented in our artistic community are vital to the past, present, and future of music. We are committed to the continued work of listening, learning and unlearning, having difficult conversations, challenging ourselves and others to not remain comfortable in our privilege, and taking action to create accountability and change.
FAQ’s
When is the application deadline?
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, and we are hoping to begin our first collaborations in mid-September.
What genres of music will be accepted?
We are open to any genre! ISQ has experience performing and recording a variety of genres including but not limited to traditional classical, jazz, pop, rock, metal, free improvisation, and other experimental styles including a wide variety of extended string techniques.
What instrumentations can be included in the workshop and recording?
We can include any combination of 2 violins, 1 viola, and 1 cello.
Do compositions need to be written in conventional Western notation?
Definitely not. We are open to exploring any form of notation with you.
Can you workshop pieces with scordatura and extended techniques?
Yes! We love using extended techniques and scordatura. If accepted, we will check in with you before the workshop to go over any unconventional techniques and make sure we come prepared with proper instruments and accessories for the workshop and recording.
Can I apply as an international artist, and is it a requirement to speak English?
Yes, all international artists are welcome, and no, it is not a requirement to speak English. We have translators available for French and Spanish speakers.
I do not have a background in music and/or have never tried composing before. Can I still apply?
Yes. If you believe you would get something valuable from this opportunity to work with us, we encourage you to apply and let us know what you have in mind through your application.
I do not have a stable internet connection and video conferencing is difficult for me. Can I still apply?
Yes! If it’s not possible to conference with us over video, we are open to other ways of communicating that work for you, including email, sending videos and recordings back and forth, etc.
How do you define “low income?”
“Low income” is commonly defined as “persons who earn less than, or at least not significantly more than, the poverty level.” We are using a flexible interpretation of this definition that generally includes anyone who feels they do not have access to traditional paths of music education due to prohibitive costs. Although you are still eligible to apply if you identify as low income and are also a white cisgender male, we ask you to please take a moment to consider your privilege before submitting your application.
Will I need to submit any documentation to prove my income?
No, you will not be required to submit any documentation to prove your income.