ABOUT FIMA 2026
Founded in 2023 as Berlin’s first major international piano summer academy, the Fiestravaganza International Music Academy (FIMA) has since evolved into an interfaculty programme, drawing on the diverse expertise of leading artists and educators across multiple musical disciplines. The programme combines individual masterclasses and coaching by internationally acclaimed professors and emerging ensembles, group workshops, and extensive performance opportunities, including solo, chamber, and orchestral concerts held in the prestigious halls of the University of the Arts Berlin. A distinctive feature of FIMA is its exclusive access to Bechstein’s Vintage Keyboard Collection, allowing participants to work on both modern and historic instruments.
FIMA 2026 marks an important new chapter for the academy. Now expanded to fully integrate string players (violin, viola, and cello), a defining highlight of the programme is the opportunity to perform a piano or string concerto movement with the Camerata Fiestravaganza (enhanced participation only). The orchestra comprises over 50 carefully selected musicians from diverse cultural backgrounds, all of whom are students or alumni of Berlin’s leading music institutions: the Universität der Künste Berlin, Hochschule für Musik Hanns Eisler Berlin, and the Barenboim-Said Akademie. In response to exceptional demand, FIMA 2026 will feature three concerto concerts, offering expanded orchestral performance opportunities for participating soloists.
Beyond music-making, FIMA places strong emphasis on cultural exchange and community. A new collaboration with the Goethe-Institute introduces a curated cultural programme that invites participants to engage with Berlin’s history, arts, and cultural life while fostering meaningful social connections. In addition, a renewed partnership with KPM Hotel & Residences, a boutique hotel and Marriott Bonvoy member, enables double-room accommodation (participant with parent or partner) to be included directly in the participation fee, encouraging participants to reside together and strengthening the academy’s sense of community.
FIMA remains committed to providing a unique interdisciplinary platform for collaborative artistic growth, nurturing versatile, open-minded musicians prepared for the artistic and professional demands of today’s musical landscape.
MAIN EVENTS TIMELINE
When: 7pm
Where: UdK Berlin Concert Hall
What: Selected FIMA participants perform concerto movements alongside Shaun Choo and the Camerata Fiestravaganza.
Where: UdK Berlin Chamber Hall & Choir Hall
What: FIMA faculty will conduct individual lessons and lead chamber music coaching sessions.
When: 7pm
Where: UdK Berlin Concert Hall
What: Selected FIMA participants perform concerto movements alongside the Camerata Fiestravaganza, led by Evan-Alexis Christ.
When: 7pm
Where: UdK Berlin Joseph-Joachim Hall
What: FIMA participants present various solo pieces worked on in the masterclasses at this internal recital.
When: 7pm
Where: UdK Berlin Joseph-Joachim Hall
What: Selected FIMA participants perform various chamber music works together with the Fiestravaganza Ensemble.
When: 7pm
Where: UdK Berlin Joseph-Joachim Hall
What: Selected FIMA participants present various pieces at this solo recital.
When: 7pm
Where: UdK Berlin Concert Hall
What: Selected FIMA participants perform concerto movements alongside the Camerata Fiestravaganza, led by Evan-Alexis Christ.
When: 7pm
Where: KPM Courtyard
What: Selected FIMA participants perform various solo & chamber works at a special event organised by the Royal Porcelain Manufactory Berlin (KPM).
MASTERCLASSES & CHAMBER MUSIC COACHING BY
VIOLIN & VIOLA
Professor for Chamber Music, Violin and Viola at the University of the Arts Berlin | Member of the Artemis Quartet
He began his musical training at an early age and studied at the Mozarteum Salzburg and the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, followed by advanced studies with leading European violinists.
Since the late 1990s, Sigl has been regularly invited as guest concertmaster and musical director by renowned orchestras across Europe and Asia, working with many of the world’s most distinguished conductors.
He is a professor at the Berlin University of the Arts and at the Queen Elisabeth Music Chapel in Brussels.
As a founding member of the Artemis Quartet, he performs worldwide at major concert halls and international festivals and has recorded extensively for Erato.
VIOLIN
Principal Second Violinist of the Camerata Fiestravaganza | Member of the Fiestravaganza Ensemble
Aoi has won awards at the Michael Hill International Violin Competition 2023, 1st prize at Berlin’s Violinwettbewerb der Ibolyka-Gyarfas-Stiftung, and the Villars Music Academy’s Balik Prize. She has performed with the Geidai Philharmonia and Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestras, plays a G. B. Guadagnini violin, and since 2024 is a Villa Musica Rheinland-Pfalz scholar.
VIOLA
Principal Violist of the Camerata Fiestravaganza | Member of the Fiestravaganza Ensemble
Since 2017, she has studied with Prof. Hartmut Rohde at the University of the Arts in Berlin, where she is principal violist of the university orchestra. From 2018 to 2020, she was principal viola of the European Union Youth Orchestra, performing at venues like the Concertgebouw and Royal Albert Hall. She is a member of Chamber Philharmonic Metamorphosen Berlin and, from March 2024, holds a temporary contract with the Dresden Philharmonic.
CELLO
Principal Cellist of the Camerata Fiestravaganza | Member of the Fiestravaganza Ensemble
A prizewinner at the International Janigro (2016) and Tonali Cello (2018) Competitions, she has performed at the Elbphilharmonie, Berliner Philharmonie, and Musikverein Vienna. Oliwia is a founder of the Musica Libera Ensemble and an orchestra coordinator for the Fiestravaganza International Music Academy. She plays a Paolo Castello cello, generously loaned by a private sponsor.
CONDUCTING WORKSHOP WITH
CONDUCTOR
World-Renowned Conductor of Opera & Symphonic Works | Resident Conductor of the Camerata Fiestravaganza
Born in Los Angeles and raised in Las Vegas, he studied mathematics and composition at Harvard University and conducting at the Leipzig Conservatory of Music.
He has worked extensively with leading orchestras and opera houses in Germany and abroad and has appeared at major international festivals. His operatic repertoire includes more than sixty productions, ranging from Mozart to Wagner and Strauss.
From 2008 to 2018, Christ served as Music Director of the Brandenburg State Opera in Cottbus, where he significantly expanded the orchestra’s artistic profile and international presence.
In addition to his conducting career, he is deeply committed to education and regularly leads masterclasses and projects with young musicians in international academies.
CHAMBER MUSIC PERFORMANCE WITH MENTORS FROM THE
FIESTRAVAGANZA ENSEMBLE
STRING CONCERTO PERFORMANCE WITH THE
CAMERATA FIESTRAVAGANZA
ABOUT CAMERATA FIESTRAVAGANZA
Thanks to a grant in 2022 from Germany’s Federal Ministry for Media and Culture as part of NEUSTART KULTUR, the orchestra’s debut concert took place at the great hall of the UdK Berlin for a full house (under reduced seating capacity due to Covid) of nearly 650 attendees. Camerata Fiestravaganza is the resident orchestra of the Fiestravaganza International Music Academy. Every summer, the orchestra performs a marathon of piano concertos, featuring young soloists from all over the world.
CONCERTS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF THE ARTS BERLIN
UDK CONCERT HALL
ABOUT THE UDK CONCERT HALL
Today, the UdK Concert Hall is one of the showplaces of Berlin’s cultural life. With its 1,255 seating capacity, the UdK Berlin's Faculty of Music holds many of their major events here, such as festivals, symphonic concerts, competitions and exams.
UDK JOSEPH-JOACHIM HALL
ABOUT THE JOSEPH-JOACHIM HALL
With its tasteful, modern furnishings, it is located in the prestigious building of the old Joachimstaler Gymnasium, right next to Spichernstraße subway station. The UdK Berlin uses this hall for concerts, lecture evenings, symposia, competitions, master classes and examinations.
The hall offers space for 392 guests and is also easily accessible for wheelchair users. There are 352 seats in rows and a further 40 in alcoves.
MASTERCLASSES & PRACTICE FACILITIES AT
UDK CHAMBER HALL
ABOUT UDK CHAMBER HALL
With seating for up to 99 guests, the Kammermusiksaal is specifically designed for chamber music, lecture recitals, and curated concert formats. The venue is equipped with two Steinway Model B grand pianos and a harpsichord, making it particularly well suited for a wide range of classical repertoire. Regularly used by UdK Berlin for concerts, masterclasses, and artistic presentations, the Kammermusiksaal provides an ideal environment for refined musical exchange within Europe’s largest art university.
LA RAISON DE LA MUSIQUE
ABOUT LA RAISON DE LA MUSIQUE
Eight studios are equipped with high-quality grand pianos, all regularly tuned and maintained. The facility offers a variety of rooms of different sizes to accommodate diverse needs.
CULTURAL ACTIVITIES ORGANISED BY
ABOUT GOETHE INSTITUT BERLIN
Goethe-Institut Berlin is located in a historic building in the central district of Mitte. This neighbourhood is a cultural gem that will delight you with its impressive monuments and historic sights. Here you can experience the political heart of Germany, the imposing Reichstag building, or the world-famous Brandenburg Gate up close. From the viewing platform of the Berlin TV Tower, you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the capital city. Not far from the Goethe-Institut is Museum Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you will find important art collections that will transport you to another world.
INCLUDES DELUXE ACCOMMODATION AT
ABOUT KPM HOTEL & RESIDENCES
Accommodation is included in the participation fee and consists of a private double room per participant, intended either for single occupancy or for shared use with one accompanying parent. Family rooms accommodating up to three adults are available upon request for an additional fee.
The KPM Hotel & Residences combines a maximum of comfort and coziness with a clear, individual design signature. Opened in September 2019, it prides itself on its geographical location. Located directly at the northern entrance to the Great Tiergarten, nestled between the building ensemble of the Königliche Porzellan-Manufaktur Berlin and the Great Tiergarten, numerous Berlin hotspots are within walking distance. The S- Bahn “Tiergarten” stops a few meters from the hotel and allows you to immerse yourself quickly and stress-free in Berlin city life.
Their 126 light-flooded rooms are private retreats. Rooms that impress with their clear design, the high quality of the materials and technical details such as smart TV and tablet or the fully equipped kitchenette which is available on request.
* Participation in the chamber music performance is by opt-in interest and subject to the outcome of the preliminary video audition.
REGISTRATIONS ARE NOW OPEN!
• A €100 non-refundable registration fee is required at the time of registration for all applicants.
• First-time applicants will be asked to pay the full participation fee only upon passing the preliminary video audition. Applicants will be notified within three working days of their audition result. Payment must be completed within two weeks of the result notification to secure the place.
• Returning FIMA participants may bypass the audition and secure their place by paying the full participation fee upon registration, subject to availability.
Late Registration Period: 1-22 June 2026
• Applications submitted during this period incur an additional €100 late registration administrative fee.
• Late registrations are accepted subject to remaining availability.
Before applying, please read the FAQ below carefully for details on prerequisites and the cancellation policy. Thank you.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Application & Eligibility
Who can apply?
FIMA is open to classically trained musicians of all ages. Applicants are assessed based on their artistic level at their stage of development, not by age or by the difficulty of repertoire alone.
Both younger talents and more advanced music students are welcome to apply. Younger applicants with less experience are encouraged, as they often benefit especially from the academy’s intensive performance and collaborative activities.
Is there a closing date for registrations?
Interested applicants may submit their registration at any time from now until 31 May 2026. Late applications may be granted until 22 June 2026, reviewed on a case-by-case basis and subject to an additional €100 administrative fee.
Is there a video preselection upon registration?
Yes, but don’t worry! Videos are simply used to assess your current level in order to verify that you will benefit from the full extent of the program offered. Videos do not have to be professionally recorded. Recordings made via mobile phone are welcome!
When and how do applicants make payment?
First time applicants may submit their application now without upfront participation fee payment (€100 registration fee is still mandatory). Upon reviewing the online video submission, they will be notified within three working days of the results of their application. If successful, applicants will then transfer the participation fee in full via a link provided to the online payment portal.
Returning participants will pay the full participation fee on the last page of the application form. Their registration is immediately completed without any further steps.
Repertoire Requirements
Must participants work on the same pieces as submitted during their application? Must they be played from memory?
No, participants may choose to play a different set of pieces during the lessons and may present the same or different pieces to each faculty member. Just bear in mind that participants should prepare an adequate number of pieces in order for the intense lessons offered to be most effective.
Pieces can be played with the score. However, do note that only pieces which have been memorised will be considered for the solo concert performance.
Must the concerto movement in the video submission be performed from memory? What if it is not ready at the time of application?
We understand that some participants may choose to start a new concerto movement specially for the academy, or choose to play a concerto movement that is currently a work-in-progress. In either case, participants may submit a recording of their preferred concerto played with the score, a recording of a different concerto, or an additional solo work that demonstrates the student’s skill. Participants are still encouraged to submit a polished recording of their chosen concerto at the soonest possible date.
Please note that for the actual concerto performance, participants must play from memory.
Participation & Concerts
How are participants chosen for the solo/chamber music concerts?
The faculty members will collectively decide who plays what when at the solo concerts, based on their impression working on the pieces during the lessons. Rest assured, we will do our best to ensure every participant has at least one chance to perform their piece(s) on stage.
Participants opting in for the chamber music performance are encouraged to include a chamber music recording with their solo audition submission. Applicants who are unable to do so will still be considered, with selection based on their solo instrumental performance.
How long is each individual lesson?
The current allocated time per lesson is between 45 minutes and 1 hour, subject to the number of participants and faculty member in question. Even though we will try our best to uphold these timings, we seek your understanding and flexibility in the case of a large intake of participants.
Can participants observe fellow participant's lessons?
Definitely! Not only are they allowed to watch other participants, but they are highly encouraged to do so. After all, one can definitely learn much from listening to others!
Are parents/teachers allowed as observers?
Parents and teachers of participants will receive a guest pass at the start of the academy, which allows them full access to the lessons, workshops and concerts free of charge. All other external observers will be subject to a small entry fee.
Facilities & Logistics
Will there be ample practice possibilities?
Twelve brand-new practice rooms, many equipped with grand pianos, will be available throughout the academy and are directly located at the masterclass venue. Additionally, participants may also practice in the eight grand piano studios at La Raison de la musique. Rest assured, each participant will be allocated several hours of practice daily. A schedule will be created whereby participants can choose their preferred timeslot(s).
Where will participants stay during the academy?
One important aspect of organising an event is to ensure everyone feels safe and comfortable. This applies not only to the participants, but their parents and teachers who accompany them. Hence, we sought out a partner hotel – KPM Hotel and Residences, a 5-star equivalent boutique hotel situated in one of Berlin’s most modern and cleanest districts with direct access to the main subway line. It is also within walking distance to the University of the Arts Berlin, where the concerts and string activities will take place.
All FIMA 2026 participation packages include 13 nights of accommodation at KPM Hotel & Residences, from 20 July to 2 August 2026.
Each participant is allocated one standard private room, which may be occupied by the participant alone or together with one accompanying person (e.g. a parent or partner). All standard rooms are furnished with one king-size bed, complimentary minibar and Wi-Fi, coffee-making facilities, and access to the hotel’s sauna and gym.
A Deluxe Family Room upgrade (larger room size, accommodating up to three adults with an additional lounge bed), as well as additional standard rooms, may be reserved as add-ons. Payment is made together with the participation fee.
Breakfast is available at €25 per person per day and can be booked directly with the hotel. Alternatively, a variety of cafés and bakeries—including Steinecke bakery and Einstein Coffee – are located nearby for lighter breakfast options.
Please note:
- Rooms are pre-allocated for the full duration stated above.
- If your arrival or departure dates differ, please inform us in advance.
- No discounts or partial refunds will be provided for shortened stays. We appreciate your understanding.
Can I book my own accommodation?
To foster a strong sense of community and ensure a safe, cohesive academy environment, participants are expected to stay at the designated academy hotel together with fellow participants and accompanying guests.
Participants who are officially residing in Berlin or Brandenburg and do not require accommodation must indicate this at the point of registration. In this case, a €1,000 discount may be applied to the participation fee, subject to approval.
Valid proof of residence (e.g. Meldebescheinigung or Aufenthaltstitel) is required.
No other exceptions or reductions will be granted.
Are meals and transportation included?
Unfortunately not. Given that participants are free to explore the city outside of their individual lesson time and scheduled workshops/rehearsals/concerts, we are unable to accommodate everyone’s preferred dietary requirements or provide exclusive transportation.
However, at the end of the academy, an afterparty will be organised, which includes dinner and drinks on us to celebrate your successful completion of FIMA 2026!
Financial Info
Do you offer any scholarships or grants?
We do not currently offer scholarships or grants, as we aim to keep our program fees as accessible as possible. However, in certain cases, we may offer a discount on participation fees. If you are from a developing country, demonstrate exceptional talent, and are facing financial hardship, you are welcome to contact us. Discounts are considered on a case-by-case basis.
Please note that we may require proof of eligibility, such as a family low-income statement, student financial aid documentation, or other relevant verification to support your request.
What is your refund policy if I have to cancel my participation?
- Refunds apply to the participation fee only and exclude the registration fee.
- Cancellations received by 30 April 2026: 80% refund of the participation fee.
- Cancellations received by 31 May 2026: 50% refund of the participation fee.
- Cancellations from 01 June 2026: no refund
Registrations made during the late registration period (1–22 June 2026) are non-refundable.
