On a small consort-based course it is important that everyone taking part is of a similar standard so that the consorts are satisfying for everyone to work in, and we can cover technical aspects of playing that are appropriate to everyone. To help you choose the right course for you here are some guidelines:

Elementary

- Relatively new players
- Does not need to have met all 6 strings of their viol, but could do with being
  able to play simple pieces in first position, rhythmically uncomplicated
- Basic fingering and bow hold in place
- Not required to hold a part on their own although could be encouraged to do so

Intermediate

- Bass players can play on all six strings, in first and half position
- Treble and tenor players familiar with notes in first and half position on top five
  strings even if the bottom string is a bit of a mystery
- Happy to play in keys of one sharp or flat, willing to try two sharps or flats
- Has begun to use and is happy to be taught chordal fingering
- Able to hold a part in homophonic dances and getting to know madrigals and
  pieces with more independent parts
- Starting to shape notes with tensioning bow hair

Upper Intermediate

- Competent across whole range of instrument in first and half position, and
  up to a tone above the top fret
- Happy in keys of two sharps or flats, willing to try three
- Can play two sizes of viol, even if one is more familiar than the other
- Able to hold a part in polyphonic madrigals and friendly fantasias
- Bass players be happy to sometimes tune 6th string down to C
- Able to shape notes with tensioning the bow hair (messa di voce)