The 2026 Australian Viola da Gamba Society (AVdGS) Annual Viol Workshop was held from Saturday 7 to Monday 9 March 2026 at the Castlemaine Steiner School on Djaara country. The workshop brought together viola da gamba players of all levels, including quite a few beginners, for an intensive weekend of music-making in a bushland setting.
The theme of the workshop, Semper Dowland, marked 400 years since the death of English composer John Dowland. Across the three days, participants explored Dowland’s songs and consort music, alongside a broader repertoire including fantasias and other early music works.
The workshop was wonderfully led by Artistic Director, Laura Moore, supported by a team of highly experienced musicians and educators: Brooke Green, Lizzy Welsh, John Weretka and Maddy Furlan. The tutors provided a mix of consort coaching, themed sessions, talks, and masterclass-style instruction. Sessions catered to a wide range of interests and skill levels, including technique, lyra viol, diminutions, contemporary consorts, broken consorts, low consort repertoire, and focused exploration of Dowland’s Lachrimae.
The three-day program included two talks: Extended Techniques on the Viol by Lizzy Welsh and John Weretka, and William Turner and the English Viol Consort by Ian Watchorn. These were very much enjoyed by the participants.
There was also a tutors’ concert held on Sunday evening where participants, family and friends enjoyed some splendid playing by the tutoring team. Along with Dowland, pieces included two contemporary works for the viol composed by Brooke Green.
Participants demonstrated what they had practised over the weekend by performing on the final day at the student consort concert.
The committee wishes to thank Laura, all the tutors, the participants and especially Pauline and David Gorrie who supplied marvellous catering throughout the three days.
Everyone is already looking forward to next year!
Matt Bond – AVdGS Committee