Arizona Chamber Music Weekend
Join us for a fun and meaningful weekend
of making music
Returning June 2027!
Arizona Chamber Music Weekend is an immersive, three-day musical retreat designed for dedicated musicians who value artistry, collaboration, and the joy of making music together. Presented by the Scottsdale Chamber Music Series, this unique experience brings performers into a welcoming, supportive environment where camaraderie and creative exploration take center stage.
Participants are thoughtfully placed into chamber ensembles and guided by distinguished professional coaches who provide personalized musical insight, rehearsal strategies, and interpretive guidance. Preformed groups are also warmly welcomed. Through rehearsals, coaching and a masterclass, musicians refine ensemble skills, deepen musical understanding, and experience the collaborative spirit that makes chamber music so rewarding.
The weekend culminates in a public performance on the third day, giving participants the opportunity to share their work in a polished and celebratory concert setting.
Whether you are an experienced chamber musician or seeking to reconnect with the intimacy and artistry of small-ensemble performance, Arizona Chamber Music Weekend offers an inspiring space to grow musically, build lasting friendships, and celebrate the shared language of music.
Sample Schedule (2026 Schedule Below)
Friday, June 5, 2026 (Venue8600)
5:30-6:00 PM, Arrival and Check-in
6:00 PM, Welcome, Introductions, Dinner (provided)
7:00-9:00 PM, First Rehearsal
Saturday, June 6, 2026 (Venue 8600)
8:00 AM, Doors Open
9:00-11:00 AM, Rehearsal/Coaching
11:00-12:00 noon, Lunch (provided)
12:00-12:30 PM Free reflection time
12:30-3:00 PM, Masterclass
3:00-5:00 PM, Rehearsal/Coaching
5:00-6:00 PM, Dinner (on your own)
6:00-8:30 PM, “Freelance” (rehearsal, practice, hangout, mixed sightreading etc.)
Sunday, June 7, 2026 (Steinway Scottsdale)
9:00 AM, Doors Open
9:30-12:30 PM, Dress Rehearsal
12:30-1:30 PM, Lunch (Provided)
2:00 PM, Closing Concert at Steinway Concert Hall
Coaches (2026 Session)
Dr. Michelle Fletcher, Bassoon
Dr. Michelle Fletcher is Instructor of Bassoon at Northern Arizona University and a highly active performer throughout the Southwest. She serves as principal bassoon with several regional ensembles and has appeared as both bassoonist and contrabassoonist with orchestras across Arizona and neighboring states. A passionate educator and collaborator, Dr. Fletcher brings a thoughtful, musician-centered approach to coaching, helping performers strengthen both technical command and ensemble awareness. She holds degrees from Arizona State University and Brigham Young University and is an active member of the International Double Reed Society.
Danwen Jiang, Violin
An internationally acclaimed violinist, Danwen Jiang has performed as a soloist and chamber musician across North America, Europe, and Asia, appearing at major venues including Carnegie Hall and the Kennedy Center. A prizewinner of China’s National Violin Competition, she is equally respected as a dedicated educator, having received multiple teaching honors during her tenure at Arizona State University. Ms. Jiang is a sought-after master class clinician and chamber music collaborator, known for her ability to guide musicians toward refined ensemble playing and expressive depth.
Katherine Phillips, Horn
Katherine Phillips is Assistant Principal/Utility Horn with the Tucson Symphony Orchestra and Third Horn with the West Valley Symphony. An experienced orchestral and freelance musician, she has performed with ensembles across Arizona, Texas, Louisiana, and Arkansas. Ms. Phillips holds degrees from the University of Louisiana–Monroe and Arizona State University, where she served as a teaching assistant. As a coach, she brings a collaborative and supportive approach, helping musicians develop confidence, blend, and musical clarity within the ensemble setting.
Desmond Siu, Conductor
Desmond Siu is Artistic Director of the Scottsdale Symphonic Orchestra and a dynamic conductor known for his engaging leadership and collaborative spirit. Under his direction, the orchestra has grown in both artistic ambition and community impact, earning recognition for its thoughtful programming and welcoming culture. A passionate advocate for music education and accessibility, Mr. Siu brings a clear, insightful approach to coaching, helping ensembles connect deeply with the music while refining precision, communication, and expressive intent.
Registration Fees
The registration fee for Arizona Chamber Music Weekend is $295 per participant and includes all coachings, rehearsals, and the final performance experience, as well as the meals lsited in the schedule above. Individuals that register as a pre-formed group enjoy a discounted registration rate of $250 per person.
We are committed to making this opportunity accessible to every musician who wants to participate. Scholarships are available, and no one will be turned away due to financial need. If cost is a concern, we encourage you to reach out—our goal is to ensure that all interested musicians can take part in this inspiring and collaborative weekend.
