A Ferguson Tradition Since 2001
Mountains & Strings
A Chamber Music Retreat
In the Mountains of Idaho.
About the Retreat
Where the Music Meets the Mountains
Founded in 2001 by the Fergusons alongside Brian and Natalie Ashton, the Mountains & Strings Chamber Music Retreat is a summer camp where serious teen string players gather to study, rehearse, and perform in an intimate chamber-music setting.
Each season brings new repertoire, new friendships, and a shared reverence for the craft of playing together — far from distraction, close to the mountains, and immersed in music from morning until night.
Chamber music asks something different of a young player than orchestra does. There is no conductor and nowhere to hide in a quartet: every part matters, entrances have to be felt rather than followed, and phrasing is negotiated between four people in real time.
"A remarkable string camp for teens — a place where young players learn what it means to breathe, phrase, and listen together."
— Richard Ferguson
What to Expect
A Week Built Around Chamber Music
Chamber Music Focus
Students work in small ensembles — duos, trios, quartets — learning the skills of listening, leading, and blending that define true chamber playing. Coaching happens where it matters, inside the rehearsal, rather than as a lecture afterwards.
Built for Teen Players
Designed for serious young violinists, violists, and cellists ready to deepen their musicianship beyond what private lessons alone can offer. Players arrive at a range of levels, and the week is built on the assumption that they want to be pushed.
A 20+ Year Tradition
What began in 2001 has become a cornerstone of string education in the region — attended year after year by students, families, and guest faculty. Two decades in, the retreat has its own returning families and its own traditions.
Learn More About the Retreat
For dates, faculty, repertoire, and registration, visit the retreat site directly or reach out to Ferguson Violins. If you are weighing whether your player is ready, call (208) 356-0231 and ask. It is a conversation we have every spring.