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Collaborative Piano

9 fellow openings per summer

Ready for a life-changing summer?

Experience an in-depth exploration of the vast instrumental repertoire, focusing on general concepts of successful partnering, technical and pianistic concerns, building repertoire, and keys to professional development. Curriculum covers a wide range of literature, including sonatas and duos, orchestral reductions, and character pieces. Pianists enjoy many training and performance opportunities, including the Duo Competition. Be immersed doing what you love in one of the most beautiful cities in the world, surrounded by an enthusiastic and caring community committed to your success.

Training & Performance Opportunities

  • Accompany instrumental fellows in public masterclasses several times weekly
  • Fellow recitals
  • Weekly private lessons
  • Weekly Collaborative Piano masterclass and/or studio class instruction
  • Daily collaboration with instrumental fellows
  • Option to attend the Vocal Piano and Solo Piano masterclasses
  • Frequent interaction with the Academy’s outstanding instrumental teaching artists
  • Various keyboard parts in Music Academy orchestral concerts

Duo Competition

You have a one-in-nine chance of winning this competition! Each collaborative piano fellow is paired with multiple instrumental partners. The winning duo, selected by an esteemed panel of professionals, are presented with a $5,000 cash prize each and will perform in a Santa Barbara recital the following year, presented by the Music Academy in Santa Barbara (travel, lodging, and per-diem for each winner). Winners will also receive:

  • Up to $1,000 to support innovative possibilities for this Music Academy performance (for example, projections, special lighting, etc.)
  • Coaching with Music Academy teaching artists in preparation for this performance
  • When possible, additional digital performances and community engagement activities
  • Commission by Derek Bermel, to be premiered recital in Santa Barbara
  • Industry introductions and networking meetings with presenters, management, and media professionals
  • Digital assets (recordings and photos) for career promotion

And So Much More...

Wellness Program

Resources include exercise, yoga, counseling, and performance medicine

Community Engagement

Each fellow is matched with community members for social events and more

Innovation Institute

Offering seminars & entrepreneurial competitions

Collaborative Piano Teaching Artists

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Jonathan Feldman
director
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Natasha Kislenko
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Margaret McDonald

Collaborative Piano Application & Audition Information

January 5, 2023 (APPLICATION SEASON CLOSED)

  • Collaborative Piano applicants may choose between a Live Audition or Virtual Audition
  • Visit the Application Link for detailed audition repertoire requirements by studio
  • Thursday, January 26, 2023 / LIVE AUDITION in New York City, NY
  • Friday, January 27, 2023 / LIVE AUDITION in New York City, NY
  • Sunday, January 26-29, 2023 / VIRTUAL AUDITION

The Music Academy requires all administration, teaching artists, fellows, and other constituents on campus to provide proof of COVID vaccination.

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