This course is designed for intermediate and advanced students with previous instrumental training. Students should have basic music-reading skills, familiarity with fundamental music theory, and an interest in individual and ensemble performance. Previous chamber-music experience is desirable but not mandatory.

1. Develop practical viola performance skills through guided individual and group practice.

2. Strengthen chamber-music and ensemble skills, with particular emphasis on listening, communication, coordination and collective musical decision-making.

3. Explore different musical styles and repertoire encountered in Türkiye, and develop an informed understanding of their performance contexts.

4. Introduce students to selected aspects of Turkish musical culture and repertoire through practical and theoretical activities.

5. Encourage students to connect performance practice with lectures, workshops, masterclasses and concerts presented by international artists and scholars.

6. Develop critical listening and reflection skills through observation and discussion of professional performances

Special International Viola Days Component

The course takes place during the 4th International Viola Days and the 1st Istanbul International Viola Competition, which will be hosted at Istanbul Technical University Ayazağa Campus from 17 to 20 November 2026. Students enrolled in the ATHENS course will have an exceptional opportunity to complement their practical training with access to selected masterclasses, workshops, lectures, concerts and other educational activities taking place within the event. They may also attend and observe the international viola competition. This component provides students with direct exposure to different approaches to viola performance, repertoire, pedagogy and professional musical practice, while creating opportunities for intercultural exchange with international students, performers and academics.

Day 1

Morning Session (09:30–12:00)

Introduction to Viola Performance and Ensemble Culture

Break (12:00–14:00)

Afternoon Session (14:00–17:00)

Practical Session: Viola Performance, Group Practice and Ensemble Skills

Day 2

Morning Session

(09:30–12:00) Chamber Music: Listening, Communication and Collective Musical Practice

Break (12:00–14:00)

Afternoon Session (14:00–17:00)

Chamber Music Coaching and Rehearsal

Day 3

Morning Session (09:30–12:00)

Musical Cultures and Repertoire in Türkiye: An Introduction

Break (12:00–14:00)

Afternoon Session (14:00–17:00)

Practical Workshop: Exploring Selected Turkish Musical Styles and Their Performance Approaches

Day 4

Morning Session

(09:30–12:00) Performance Practice and Repertoire Development

Break (12:00–14:00)

Afternoon Session (14:00–17:00)

Participation in / observation of selected International Viola Days masterclasses, workshops and lectures

Day 5

Morning Session (09:30–12:00)

Ensemble Practice and Performance Preparation

Break (12:00–14:00)

Afternoon Session (14:00–17:00)

International Viola Days: Concerts, lectures, workshops and observation of the 1st Istanbul International Viola Competition, followed by discussion and reflection.

Students will be assessed through active participation in practical sessions, chamber-music and ensemble activities, and a short reflective assignment based on their learning experience. The assignment may include observations from masterclasses, lectures, workshops or concerts attended during International Viola Days.

Submission Components

1. Active participation in individual/group and ensemble sessions.

2. Participation in chamber-music rehearsal and performance activities.

3. Short reflective report connecting practical work with selected lectures, masterclasses, workshops or performances.

On Saturday, November 14th, we are planning a "welcome event" at  15:00. "Turkish Tea/Coffee & Turkish Delight" Meeting point: ITU Ayazaga Campus.

(obligatory - the first event of European Dimension Activities, EDA fees will also be collected during this event)

On Sunday, November 15th, we are planning to go to Prince's Islands by ferry at 11:00. Meeting point: Kabataş Pier. The event will include orienteering and a guided tour of the island with snacks. (obligatory - the second event of European Dimension Activities)

*Alternative plans will be available depending on the weather conditions.

On Wednesday, November 18th, we are planning a traditional dinner at the restaurant at 19.00. (obligatory - the last event of European Dimension Activities) - FAREWELL DINNER !

More detailed information will be provided in due course.