Training course “Strings, Jazz, and Improvised Music”

Presentation of the course

This course is aimed at professional violinists, violists, cellists, and double bassists, pre-professionals, advanced amateurs, and teachers who wish to study improvisation and jazz. It is based on the teaching techniques developed by Didier Lockwood. It provides trainees with a working method specific to string instruments, enabling them to master instrumental technique and acquire a real artistic dimension in jazz and improvised music. It allows them to discover improvisation or perfect their practice, consolidate rhythmic, harmonic, and melodic concepts (improvisations, interpretations), and assimilate a new working method specific to jazz.

Training objectives

By the end of the training, trainees will be able to read a rhythm chart, recognize intervals and chords, and play and improvise on a jazz standard.

Training content

  • Instrument, sight-reading, and specific jazz strings workshop with Alba Obert or Bastien Ribot
  • Ear training, with Benoit Sourisse or Frédéric Loiseau
  • Rhythm, with André Charlier or Anthony Jambon
  • Jazz repertoire ensemble with Frédéric Loiseau
  • Master classes/concerts, on an ad hoc basis


Organization of the training program

The total duration of the training program is one year, divided into two semesters. Weekly classes are held on Mondays during the day, from September to June (144 hours of training). At the end of the training, they will receive a CMDL certificate.

To apply for the “Strings, Jazz, and Improvised Music” training program, candidates must:

  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Have a good level of instrumental and theoretical knowledge. No music degree is required.

EXCEPTIONS MAY BE MADE during online registration.

List of documents to provide

For every candidate
  •  Passport photo
  • 1 Cover letter
  • 1 Curriculum Vitae
  • Links to view your video recordings (minimum of three): your interpretation of two pieces of your choice

Cost of training

The cost of training is €3,500 per year. However, if you are financing your own training, the CMDL will support you by reducing the fees. The cost is then €2,400 per year.

Training financing options:

Although this training is not eligible for the CPF (Personal Training Account), various professional training financing options may be available depending on the trainee’s personal situation (performing artist, artist-author, job seeker, or other). We invite you to contact AFDAS or the OPCO your employer belongs to for more information. You can also contact your local regional authority or Pôle Emploi advisor.

Afdas
As a training partner for professionals in the fields of culture, communication, media, and leisure, AFDAS offers several financing solutions depending on your status (skills development plan, CIF, etc.).

Your region
This local authority is committed to helping young people train and facilitating their integration into the workforce. Contact your regional authority to find out about the support measures in place.

France Travail
If existing funding mechanisms (from local authorities, OPCOs, etc.) cannot cover your training project, either partially or in full, contact your Pôle Emploi advisor to see if you are eligible for Individual Training Assistance (AIF), which will contribute to the cost of your training.

For people with disabilities
Candidates with disabilities can submit an application to AGEFIPH

  • for training assistance
  • for travel related to training
  • for the assistance of a person to compensate
  • for your disability
  • to finance technical equipment related to your disability

Click here for more information

Registration periods

Registration begins : december 10, 2025

Registration closes on : May 31, 2026

DAP (for non-European foreigners): December 15, 2025

Auditions : April 16-17 and May 6-7, 2026

Results : June 22, 2026

Information pack

Registration form

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