Introduction to the Summer School
“The European Retreat for Chamber Music”
The Stamford International Music Festival combines two weeks of intensive summer chamber music study for young professionals and music students, with an exciting array of concerts by international artists. Boasting an international faculty of American and European musicians, the festival offers students from around the world an idyllic and historic venue in which to study chamber music, learning and performing together in a supportive and creative environment. The town is rich in culture and the international atmosphere provided by the student body is rich in opportunity for individuals keen to find both personal growth and professional development. As the highlight of the two week festival, students work closely with the faculty in lessons and coachings, attend the public performances by the faculty, perform in student concerts around the town, or appear in the public masterclasses attended by the local audiences. For many, this chance to focus on chamber music can stimulate a whole years worth of learning. The festival prides itself on a friendly and supportive atmosphere, with an approachable faculty and a diverse student body that makes it a truly unique experience. It is perhaps no surprise that students keep returning year after year!
Student Participants
Most festival participants are either music students studying at the college level or professionals in music keen to focus their playing. The festival also welcomes gifted school age students over the age of sixteen and older amateurs looking for the chance to spend quality time with their instrument. This mix of participants provides a friendly and rounded experience unlike many other festivals.
Musicians attending the festival in previous years have included participants on violin, viola, cello, piano, flute, oboe, clarinet, horn, bassoon and voice. If you play a different instrument from those listed above and have chamber music repertoire ideas you would like to explore, please contact the festival director, Andrew Smith.
Festival Guests
By arrangement with the festival administration, students participating at the festival can also have a “Festival Guest” accompany them. This is especially useful for younger international students. Festival Guests (parents, family members or legal guardians accompanying a student) can attend all the festival activities or enjoy the advantage of visiting some of the beautiful local sites such as Cambridge, Peterborough, London or the many unspoiled villages of the famous Rutland Waters region. Alternatively, Festival Guests can stay and explore the beauties of Stamford, celebrated in films and pictures. The presence of Festival Guests at the festival, adds a “real world” dimension, and the many age groups on campus provide a friendly and safe environment. |
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