Feb Half-Term Piano & Cello Course
Course Intro
We’re delighted to launch a new instrumental course for cellists and pianists at Leiston Abbey during February Half Term (from 15-20 February 2026).
The course will be led by Victor Lim and Alexandra MacKenzie – both internationally acclaimed teachers and players who you can read more about below. They will offer one-to-one tuition alongside ensemble playing, technique and performance classes, and the opportunity for cellists and pianists to work together in duo partnerships for the week too. There will also be yoga and plenty of fun and friendship-building as we continue our focus on the wellbeing of our students.
We invite students of Grade 6 and above (or the equivalent standard)* to apply via our application form linked below. We also ask for an audition recording of two contrasting pieces at the relevant standard to be submitted via WeTransfer (or an alternative platform if you prefer). Please note that, if you are auditioning for Pro Corda’s summer courses, you are welcome to use the same videos for that.
*Please note that, if students still working towards this level are keen to attend, we may be able to accommodate them, so please do get in touch if you’re interested.
- One to One tuition
- Ensemble playing
- Technique and performance classes
- Duo partnership opportunities
- Yoga and wellbeing sessions
Course Requirements
Age: under 19yrs
Entry requirement: Grade 6 and above
Audition: Two contrasting pieces of the relevant standard recorded.
Application deadline: Limited places still remain. Applications still being accepted.
Cost: £950
Pro Corda tries to ensure that no student is turned away because of financial barriers so please get in touch if you are facing difficulties. You can also find out more information on our Bursary page.
The next course will take place:
All Pro Corda courses have excellent pastoral care, and this comes partly from the relatively small numbers on the course due to the emphasis on chamber music and partly from the expertise and experience of the pastoral staff. All staff are chosen for their experience and empathy with this age group, and students and parents alike will find us warm and welcoming.
Course Director: Victor Lim
Described as a pianist with ‘with great possibilities of nuance and perfect flexibility’ (Revista Arta), South Korean-British pianist Victor Lim has performed around the world in the UK, France, Germany, Austria, Norway, Denmark, Romania, China, Singapore and South Korea. Victor is a City Music Foundation Artist, Making Music UK’s Philip and Dorothy Green Young Artist and the winner of the 2021 RNCM Gold Medal.
An internationally sought-after teacher, Victor has been the Head of Keyboard Studies at Rossall School since 2022 where he is also the Director of International Piano Academy for gifted young pianists. He also holds teaching positions at the University of Manchester and the Royal Northern College of Music, and is a regular member of the faculty at International Young Musicians Academy and Pro Corda.
Course Director: Alexandra Mackenzie
Alexandra Mackenzie is internationally recognised as an outstanding performer and educator. After obtaining First Class honours from the Royal Academy of Music and Manhattan School of Music she spent eight years in New York. Her extraordinary range as a performer is demonstrated by her work with the legendary S.E.M. Ensemble; playing with the Orpheus Chamber Orchestra; touring with a ragtime band; recording for Quincy Jones, Michael Jackson and the Wu Tang Clan.
Alexandra has played with the English Chamber Orchestra for over a decade and is in frequent demand as a guest principal with orchestras across the UK. She teaches at the junior department of the Royal Academy of music and was elected an ARAM in 2011.
Course Location: Leiston Abbey
In the heart of the Suffolk countryside with easy access to the Heritage Coast, participants on the course will be able to enjoy a vast array of social and fun activities – organised to complement and warmly welcome every individual.
