Rasa String Quartet’s Educational Workshops
Workshop Offerings
Exploring Celtic, Fiddle, and Beyond
In this workshop, classically-trained musicians are introduced to folk, Celtic, and fiddle styles and techniques. Through demonstrations and hands-on exercises, we’ll explore characteristic bowing approaches, ornamentation, groove, and stylistic nuances, bridging the gap between classical precision and folk tradition. The session culminates in a behind-the-scenes look at how we blend these influences into our own cross-genre string quartet arrangements, opening new avenues for creative musical expression.
photo by: Robert Torres
The Art of Chamber Music: Building Connection and Communication in Performance
In this workshop, students will explore the essential elements of chamber music, learning how to play cohesively as a group. We’ll dive into techniques for leading and following using visual cues, listening skills, breath control, and body language. Participants will develop a deeper understanding of non-verbal communication and discover how to create a unified musical voice through collaboration.
photo by: Elizabeth Stefan
Traditional Masterclass
In this traditional masterclass, members of the quartet work closely with individual students, chamber groups, or ensembles to refine technique, interpretation, and communication skills. Through real-time coaching and interactive feedback, participants gain insights into both the art and craft of performance, strengthening their artistic voice and ensemble cohesion.
photo by: Elizabeth Stefan
Meet the String Quartet: Discovering Instruments and the Building Blocks of Music (For Beginners)
In this interactive workshop, students will be introduced to the instruments of the string quartet—violin, viola, and cello—and learn about each instrument’s unique voice and role in the ensemble. Through demonstrations and activities, we’ll explore fundamental elements of music, including rhythm, melody, and harmony. Designed for younger learners, this workshop encourages curiosity, listening, and collaboration, inspiring a lifelong love for music-making.
Rasa String Quartet offers dynamic and interactive performances, workshops, and masterclasses designed to broaden perspectives, cultivate chamber music skills, and challenge the status quo of “conventional” performing careers. Their programs can be adapted for students of all ages and abilities (from pre-k to university level) and span a diverse range of topics.
Their commitment to education has led to residencies at institutions like Celebrity Series of Boston, Bowdoin College, Phillips Exeter Academy, Walnut Hill School for the Arts, The Royal Conservatory of Music, Boston Music Project, and Rockport Music, among others.
photo by: Robert Torres
photo by: Robert Torres
photo by: Robert Torres
Music Without Limits: Exploring Styles, Genres, and Career Possibilities
In this workshop, we broaden the horizons of classically-trained musicians by venturing into a diverse world of music-making—spanning classical, folk, pop, film, and more. Through listening examples, demonstrations, and personal stories, students explore a range of styles, techniques, and elements that define each genre, while discovering the many unconventional career paths and boundless possibilities within the modern music world.
photo by: Elizabeth Stefan
The Power of Musical Storytelling: Portraying Characters and Emotions
In this engaging workshop, students explore the theatrical side of music-making by focusing on how to evoke specific characters and emotions through phrasing, dynamics, tone color. Through guided exercises and imaginative exploration, students discover how to channel stories through every note, transforming each piece into an immersive and captivating experience.
photo by: Mina Kim
Orchestra Sectional Coaching
In this workshop, members of the quartet lead focused, instrument-specific sessions to help each orchestra section prepare for an upcoming concert. Through personalized guidance and targeted exercises, students will refine technique, develop unified sound, and strengthen ensemble cohesion. Ideal for groups getting ready to take the stage, this sectional coaching ensures a polished, confident performance.
photo by: Elizabeth Stefan