The Music Academy is committed to providing a rich, chamber music experience for every fellow with a curriculum that includes four tracks:
1. String Quartet Seminar
Led by the Takács Quartet, the String Quartet Seminar (SQS) offers twelve string fellows (comprising three quartets) an intensive three-week training course focused on string quartet and chamber music collaboration. Beginning the week prior to the Festival and continuing through Week 2, SQS fellows receive daily coaching by members of the Takács Quartet, participate in a chamber masterclass led by the Takács Quartet, and observe a Takács Quartet open rehearsal. The program concludes with a recital featuring all three ensembles. The estimated rehearsal commitment for this track is 16 hours the week prior to the Festival, and eight hours per week during Weeks 1 & 2.
2. X2: Teaching Artist & Fellow Collaboration
The X2 series features chamber music performed by teaching artists and fellows sitting side-by-side. Teaching artists coach each ensemble from within the group and provide participating fellows a professional-level chamber music experience. The estimated rehearsal commitment for this opportunity is approximately six hours in the week leading up to the performance, plus a dress rehearsal. Fellows will be assigned based on prior chamber music experience and repertoire interests.
3. Fellow Chamber Music Program
This intensive chamber program is designed for instrumental, solo piano, and Lehrer Vocal Institute fellows interested in a deep chamber experience. Fellows will be assigned groups and repertoire based on prior chamber music experience and repertoire interests. Each group will receive weekly coachings from a range of teaching artists and perform a complete work on the Chamber Nights series. The estimated rehearsal commitment for this opportunity is up to six hours a week for up to four weeks.
4. Picnic Concert Projects
Fellow-initiated projects are welcomed throughout the Festival and presented on the Academy’s Picnic Concert Series. Ranging from solo repertoire and duos, to large ensemble and interstudio collaborations, these programs highlight fellows’ “behind the scenes” work in lessons, studio classes, and everything in between. Programs are curated by fellows in collaboration with the Chamber Music Specialist and require teaching artist approval. The series is affectionately titled “Picnic Concerts” in honor of the community’s tradition of enjoying picnic dinners in the Academy campus gardens prior to the concert.
