Harp

In December, two new harp teachers were appointed, giving the harp section a fresh and shared direction. Together with the existing teacher, a team of three is formed that works closely on education, artistic projects and curriculum development. Joost Willemze has been appointed as principal subject teacher of harp. He is active as a soloist, chamber musician and pedagogue and brings a broad artistic vision to the programme. Albane Baron strengthens the team as teacher of orchestral repertoire studies. Drawing on her professional orchestral experience, she guides students in preparing and performing orchestral repertoire. Lenie de Meij remains connected to Codarts as a teacher for the preparatory programme, the Codarts Lyceum and non-principal-subject students. In addition, she teaches pedagogical subjects and fulfils the role of subject group representative for harp.

Together, the three teachers are developing a curriculum in which they look beyond the boundaries of their own specialisms and actively inspire one another. Students receive lessons from all three teachers and take part in a joint workshop each semester.

Saxophone

Within the saxophone class, existing strength is complemented by international expertise. Principal subject teacher Femke IJlstra will be working in the coming period with Australian top saxophonist Amy Dickson as a regular guest teacher. Amy Dickson will work with the students at least once per semester on their artistic and technical development. Her previous masterclass at Codarts made a strong impression and provided a great deal of inspiration within the class. The collaboration with Femke IJlstra creates a strong connection between international practice and day-to-day teaching.

Brass and Bass Trombone

The brass department also presents itself with an energetic and versatile teaching team that is active across the broad musical field. The trumpet class is taught by André Heuvelman and Jeroen Schippers. The horn section consists of David Fernandez Alonso and Laurens Otto. Trombone students are taught by Alexander Verbeek. Steven Verhelst is connected to Codarts for bass trombone and the tuba class is led by Martijn van Rijswijk.

The atmosphere within the brass department is open and equal. Students are challenged to develop their own artistic signature and to shape their musical future. The teaching team is diverse and represented in national and international orchestras. There is intensive collaboration in projects and lessons are approached in the same way musicians play together.

The Codarts Brass Ensemble has been a well-known name within and beyond Codarts for many years and has a distinctive, recognisable sound. Many alumni with successful careers were formed within this ensemble. Alongside technical and musical development, there is strong attention for innovation and cultural entrepreneurship. Students work on their visibility, play in ensembles, follow improvisation classes and take part in performance moments and activities in Rotterdam. Mock auditions, visits to instrument makers and support through the Student Life programme are also integral parts of the curriculum.

With these reinforcements, Codarts underlines its ambition to educate independent, curious and versatile musicians who find their place in an international professional practice.