About the Course

Spring Into Conducting offers an immersive residential experience in the heart of Jersey, directed by renowned conductor Robert Houlihan. Designed for aspiring and developing conductors aged 18 and above, the course provides intensive practical training in baton technique, rehearsal skills, score preparation, aural development, and orchestral leadership.

Participants will progress from working with a pianist to rehearsing with a string quartet and wind quintet, gaining a comprehensive and practical introduction to core orchestral repertoire in a supportive and professional environment.

Special Features

• Sunday Evening Welcome Event: meet faculty and fellow participants in a relaxed setting.
• Final Day Open Rehearsal: the course culminates in a public-style rehearsal, giving participants the opportunity to share their work.

Robert Houlihan

Irish conductor Robert Houlihan has directed orchestras, opera companies, and youth ensembles across Europe and beyond. He is widely respected both as a conductor and as a teacher, with a reputation for clarity, insight, and generosity in working with young musicians and professionals alike. Robert has led conducting courses internationally and brings a wealth of experience in core orchestral repertoire, rehearsal techniques, and the development of individual artistic style.

What’s Included

• Full board accommodation (for resident categories)
• Daily meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner
• All repertoire materials and score-reading sessions
• Aural and technique sessions
• Ensemble sessions with string quartet and wind quintet
• Social activities with fellow musicians
• Tuition from Robert Houlihan and faculty team

Categories & Fees

Repertoire

• Haydn – Symphony No. 104
• Mozart – Magic Flute Overture
• Beethoven – Egmont Overture
• Beethoven – Symphony No. 5, 1st movement
• Strauss II – Die Fledermaus Overture
• Britten – Simple Symphony
• Sibelius – Valse Triste

Less Advanced / No Experience:

• Elgar – Chanson du Matin & Salut d’Amour
• Warlock – Capriol Suite
• Debussy – Petite Suite

Eligibility

• Minimum age: 18
• Maximum participants: 18
• Open to conductors at all stages; please bring your own instrument (if applicable) and a baton (if you have one).

Dates & Venue

Sunday 15th – Saturday 21st February 2026
Da Capo Academy of Performing Arts, Jersey
www.dcacademy.co.uk

Application & Deadline

Applications close 19th December 2025.
Early application is encouraged due to limited places.