Frequently Asked Questions
DQ FAQ
Q: Who is Discover Quintet for?
A: Discover Quintet is for you if you are a rising 8th grader through
college senior, you are at least an intermediate level on your instrument of
flute, oboe, clarinet, horn or bassoon, and you’d like to take your
skills to the next level in a fun environment with a mix of peers. Our
newest group, the Ambassador Quintet, is comprised of college students
and operates independently of the high school ensembles.
Q: Do I need prior chamber music experience?
A: That's not necessary, but you’ll need 2 or more years’ experience in
a school wind ensemble or band on your audition instrument. An audition
is required for new or for our returning students after apply.
Q: Do I need to come with a pre-formed quintet?
A: No, the camp will form quintets and other ensembles for you based
on your audition. You'll have new friends by the end of the week!
However, pre-formed quintets or friends are also welcome to apply. In
fact, for every friend you refer (who enrolls after auditioning) you
will receive $75 off your own tuition balance!
Q: Can I get help with transportation to Camp Springs?
A: Wondering how to get to Camp Springs? Consider using Branch Ave
Metro station on the Green line, a 1-mile walk or short bus ride
before the sun gets too hot. Rides to the workshop is outside of what
we can arrange, but if you’re looking for carpool solutions, we’re
happy to connect you with other participants coming from your
neighborhood area. Carpooling with other students is encouraged and
remote-working parents have benefitted working at the public library
just 18 minutes away during Discover Quintet hours.
Q: Is there a cell phone policy?
A: Yes, we’ve found that students enjoy getting a break from the
noise and distraction of our electronics and being able to be fully
present to themselves, the music, and their peers. We ask that you put
away your cell phone until the entire 4.5 hour workshop day is over.
For emergencies, parents are given the landline number at Davies
Unitarian, to reach a participant quickly.
Q: What does a typical day look like?
A: The DQ day begins at 10:00 am with coaching in your individual
groups, a break for your bag lunch and a sampling of other activities,
including yoga, masterclasses (you get to hear other students being
coached), a chance to meet and ask questions of accomplished
professional musicians, and more! DQ ends at 2:30 pm promptly each day.
Q: What should I bring?
A: Each day please bring your instrument, your music, a music stand, pencil,
extra reeds (if you play oboe, clarinet or bassoon), Instrument care
supplies, lunch, and water or juice. Hydration is important!
Q: Is there a final concert?
A: Yes, the final day (Friday of the week of DQ) ends with a
performance at 2:00 pm to which your relatives and friends are invited
free of charge. A cookies-and-fruit reception will conclude by 2:45.
Q: Who is Discover Quintet for?
A: Discover Quintet is for you if you are a rising 8th grader through
college senior, you are at least an intermediate level on your instrument of
flute, oboe, clarinet, horn or bassoon, and you’d like to take your
skills to the next level in a fun environment with a mix of peers. Our
newest group, the Ambassador Quintet, is comprised of college students
and operates independently of the high school ensembles.
Q: Do I need prior chamber music experience?
A: That's not necessary, but you’ll need 2 or more years’ experience in
a school wind ensemble or band on your audition instrument. An audition
is required for new or for our returning students after apply.
Q: Do I need to come with a pre-formed quintet?
A: No, the camp will form quintets and other ensembles for you based
on your audition. You'll have new friends by the end of the week!
However, pre-formed quintets or friends are also welcome to apply. In
fact, for every friend you refer (who enrolls after auditioning) you
will receive $75 off your own tuition balance!
Q: Can I get help with transportation to Camp Springs?
A: Wondering how to get to Camp Springs? Consider using Branch Ave
Metro station on the Green line, a 1-mile walk or short bus ride
before the sun gets too hot. Rides to the workshop is outside of what
we can arrange, but if you’re looking for carpool solutions, we’re
happy to connect you with other participants coming from your
neighborhood area. Carpooling with other students is encouraged and
remote-working parents have benefitted working at the public library
just 18 minutes away during Discover Quintet hours.
Q: Is there a cell phone policy?
A: Yes, we’ve found that students enjoy getting a break from the
noise and distraction of our electronics and being able to be fully
present to themselves, the music, and their peers. We ask that you put
away your cell phone until the entire 4.5 hour workshop day is over.
For emergencies, parents are given the landline number at Davies
Unitarian, to reach a participant quickly.
Q: What does a typical day look like?
A: The DQ day begins at 10:00 am with coaching in your individual
groups, a break for your bag lunch and a sampling of other activities,
including yoga, masterclasses (you get to hear other students being
coached), a chance to meet and ask questions of accomplished
professional musicians, and more! DQ ends at 2:30 pm promptly each day.
Q: What should I bring?
A: Each day please bring your instrument, your music, a music stand, pencil,
extra reeds (if you play oboe, clarinet or bassoon), Instrument care
supplies, lunch, and water or juice. Hydration is important!
Q: Is there a final concert?
A: Yes, the final day (Friday of the week of DQ) ends with a
performance at 2:00 pm to which your relatives and friends are invited
free of charge. A cookies-and-fruit reception will conclude by 2:45.
