Overview
The STEP Birmingham Chamber Music Workshop is open to violin, viola, and cello students of all ages and levels and aims to foster camaraderie, communication, and beauty through quality music making. STEP welcomes back the Bayberry String Quartet as featured teaching artists. Workshop activities include chamber coachings, electives, a performance by the BSQ, and a final concert featuring all participants.
Dates: March 6 - March 8, 2026
Location: St. Stephen's Episcopal Church, 3775 Crosshaven Dr., Vestavia Hills, AL 35223
Registration Deadline: January 10, 2026
Registration Fee: $180 for STEP students; $205 for non-STEP students
Before the Workshop
Participants should practice and learn their parts to the best of their abilities. Listen to multiple recordings of the piece. If you need assistance finding recordings, contact STEP.
What to Bring
Instrument, bow, case, pencil, individual part AND score in a folder. Cello players should bring an endpin strap as well as a chair if the participant does not use a standard folding-sized chair.
Schedule
Participants will receive individual schedules at check-in.
Below is a sample schedule from past workshop. Schedule for the 2026 workshop will be available in February.
Day 1 (Friday)
5:00pm potluck dinner & orientation
6:00pm - 8:00pm classes (younger students dismissed)
Day 2 (Saturday)
10:00am - 12:15pm classes
12:15pm - 1:00pm BYO lunch
1:00pm - 2:00pm Bayberry String Quartet Concert
2:00pm - 5:00pm classes
Day 3 (Sunday)
1:00 - 4:00pm classes
4:00 - 5:00pm final concert featuring all workshop participants
At the Workshop
Participants will receive coachings (i.e. lessons with their group on their pieces) as well as a variety of enrichment classes. Most participants have a one-hour break at some point, and some older groups have scheduled rehearsal time on their own. Parents are not required to stay, though younger participants may benefit from having an adult help them find their rooms.
Questions?
For questions about workshop registration and billing, contact Troy Bast at (205) 440-3611 or info@stepbirmingham.com. For questions about the music and workshop schedule, contact Laura Usiskin at (847) 650-9250 or lusiskin@gmail.com. In case of an emergency, contact Troy Bast at (205) 440-3611.