Chamber Music at Stanford

The Chamber Music program works primarily with ensembles that include string players, pianists and occasionally other instrumentalists interested in chamber music assignments. Applicants from all majors and departments are welcome.

If you have questions about whether this would be the best fit for your interests, contact the St. Lawrence at chambermusic [at] stanford.edu (chambermusic[at]stanford[dot]edu.)

Auditions

Students are encouraged to audition in Autumn Quarter to play in Autumn, Winter or Spring Quarter. 

Auditions for Winter and Spring Quarters are offered by appointment. Interested candidates should write to chambermusic [at] stanford.edu (chambermusic[at]stanford[dot]edu) for information. Students who want to audition at any time should note the following:

  • One may audition as an individual or as part of a pre-formed ensemble.
  • This year, everyone must audition even if you have participated in the past.
  • Chamber Music requires a minimum commitment of 3 hours per week. Attendance is required at all chamber music events listed below unless prior arrangements have been made with the St. Lawrence.
  • All participating Stanford students are required to enroll for Department of Music ensembles. If you are unable to enroll in Chamber Music for units, there is a process to request a permission number to register for zero units. If you need zero units, address this with your coach immediately. Those registered for zero units are expected to fulfill the same course requirements and commitments.
  • Follow this link to learn more about zero-unit enrollment.

Placement is at the discretion of the St. Lawrence and dependent on several factors including the availability of suitably matched partners and coach availability.

After the audition period, successful applicants will receive an email with information regarding chamber music placement and coaching assignment. Once you know your coach, register in MUSIC 171: Chamber Music, in your coach's section.

Audition

Important Reminders
  1. Your coach is responsible for your grade and may choose to base your grade partly on attendance, commitment, and teamwork.
  2. After consulting with your coach, your group may request to play in a masterclass and/or concert each quarter.
  3. When your group is performing in a masterclass or concert you are expected to remain in the audience until the group immediately preceding yours performs. You are then expected to slip out quietly, tune, warm up, and be prepared to walk on stage when it is your turn. Return to the audience following your performance.
Required Chamber Music Events 2025-26

In addition to coachings and rehearsals, participation in Chamber Music at Stanford includes attendance at the events below. In week 7 of each quarter, sign-ups will be available for Showcase performance slots.

Autumn Quarter

Friday, October 17 at 12:00 p.m. — St Lawrence Legacy Series presents the Viano String Quartet (free admission)

Sunday, October 19 at 2:30 p.m. — Viano String Quartet with Singer Songwriter Vienna Teng (tickets available from St Lawrence)

Wednesday, November 5 at 12:00 p.m. — Emerging String Quartet Program presents the Poesis String Quartet (free admission)

Monday, December 8 at 7:30 p.m. — Fall Showcase I

Wednesday, December 10 at 7:30 p.m. — Fall Showcase II

Winter Quarter

Monday, March 16 — Winter Showcase I

Wednesday, March 18 — Winter Showcase II

Spring Quarter

Monday, June 8 — Spring Showcase I

Wednesday, June 10 — Spring Showcase II

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