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 a 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...
Collaborative Piano Teaching Artists
Jonathan Feldman
director
Natasha Kislenko
Margaret McDonald
