ABOUT THE ACADEMY
The second edition of the “Fiestravaganza International Music Academy” (FIMA) will be held in Berlin from 22nd July to 1st August 2024. The first major piano summer academy in the German capital, FIMA offers foreign young talents, particularly those in the Asia-Pacific region like Singapore, a variety of opportunities otherwise hard to obtain in one’s early career. Participants will gain recognition through numerous solo performances and even get to perform with orchestra, while working with renowned instructors and guest speakers via the masterclasses/seminars offered. They will also get the exclusive chance to work on Bechstein’s extensive Vintage Keyboard Instrument collection. The intensive, bespoke program promotes the development of a well-rounded musician, which sets FIMA apart from many festivals.
After its debut success last year, we have extended the duration of the academy to offer even more exciting opportunities for participants this time round. This includes expanding the faculty and adding new workshops such as chamber music. Selected participants will once again get to perform a movement of a piano concerto with the Camerata Fiestravaganza. This year, however, we offer both an opening AND a closing concert only featuring piano concertos. Thanks to our new cooperation partner – the University of the Arts Berlin, participants will enjoy performing in front of hundreds in the majestic halls of Europe’s largest art institution. Majestic Bechstein D282s will be used for all concerts, proudly sponsored by C. Bechstein Berlin.
The second edition of the “Fiestravaganza International Music Academy” (FIMA) will be held in Berlin from 22nd July to 1st August 2024. The first major piano summer academy in the German capital, FIMA offers foreign young talents, particularly those in the Asia-Pacific region like Singapore, a variety of opportunities otherwise hard to obtain in one’s early career. Participants will gain recognition through numerous solo performances and even get to perform with orchestra, while working with renowned instructors and guest speakers via the masterclasses/seminars offered. They will also get the exclusive chance to work on Bechstein’s extensive Vintage Keyboard Instrument collection. The intensive, bespoke program promotes the development of a well-rounded musician, which sets FIMA apart from many festivals.
After its debut success last year, we have extended the duration of the academy to offer even more exciting opportunities for participants this time round. This includes expanding the faculty and adding new workshops such as chamber music. Selected participants will once again get to perform a movement of a piano concerto with the Camerata Fiestravaganza. This year, however, we offer both an opening AND a closing concert only featuring piano concertos. Thanks to our new cooperation partner – the University of the Arts Berlin, participants will enjoy performing in front of hundreds in the majestic halls of Europe’s largest art institution. Majestic Bechstein D282s will be used for all concerts, proudly sponsored by C. Bechstein Berlin.
FIMA 2024 PROGRAM
View flashbacks from FIMA 2023 as esteemed Singaporean Piano Lecturer Lena Ching reflects on her experience during the week-long intensive program.
ONE PIANO LESSON WITH
Piano Professor at the Mozarteum University Salzburg
Honorary Professor at the Conservatoire National Supérieur de Musique et de danse Paris
This was followed by winning international competitions, such as 1st prize of the Viotti Piano Competition in Vercelli and the special prize of the "Fondation de la Vocation". His complete recordings of Maurice Ravel's and Claude Debussy's piano works were awarded the "Grand Prix du Disque".
Jacques Rouvier performs regularly as a soloist and chamber musician in Europe and Asia. In 1982, he received a title professorship and taught as a visiting professor at the Berlin University of the Arts. In addition to teaching he does jury work at important international competitions, such as Tchaikovsky Competition Moscow.
Among his most prominent alumni are Arcadi Volodos, Helène Grimaud, David Fray, David Kadouch, etc.
TWO PIANO LESSONS WITH
Vice Dean of Music & Head of Piano at the University of the Arts Berlin
After having studied with Peter-Jürgen Hofer and Ralf Nattkemper in Hamburg and Fausto Zadra in Lausanne, he continued his studies in Berlin with Klaus Hellwig at the University of the Arts.
Concert activities, jury work and masterclasses have taken Björn Lehmann through numerous European and Asian countries. He has appeared at many international festivals, such as the Tokyo Spring Festival, Rheingau Music Festival, Flâneries Musicales de Reims and many more.
Since 2009, he has participated extensively in the concert activities of the Piano duo together with Norie Takahashi. So far, they have released four CDs which have received high praise in international music magazines and were nominated CD of the Month.
TWO FORTEPIANO LESSONS WITH
Piano and Fortepiano Professor at the University of the Arts Berlin
He began to make music on an early 19th century fortepiano and after his studies at the Royal Flemish Conservatory in Antwerp, he moved to Berlin to study with Professor Klaus Hellwig at the University of the Arts, where he graduated with the “Konzertexamen” degree.
He created a successful piano duo with Nicolas Callot for more than 20 years and collaborates regularly with classical radio stations such as Klara, BBC3, Kulturradio vom RBB etc.
His recordings include Schubert’s Impromptus, chamber music by Huybrechts and piano duets by Schumann. This CD was chosen by the BBC Music Magazine as one of the best recordings of 2020.
Lucas Blondeel regularly organizes house concerts and shares videos about pieces and instruments on his YouTube channel.
TWO PIANO LESSONS WITH
Multiple Award-Winning Classical Pianist, Composer and Teacher
In 2019, he graduated from the Mozarteum University Salzburg with the degree “Master of Arts”. Shaun Choo’s teachers include Lena Ching, Karl-Heinz Kämmerling, Andreas Weber, Jacques Rouvier and Dang Thai Son.
As a sought-after teacher, he has conducted several masterclasses and is a recurring professor at the International Summer Academy at the Mozarteum. He also holds the title of Adjunct Lecturer at the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts in Singapore.
An avid composer, Shaun Choo often performs his own works during recitals and is the first and only external piano candidate in many years to be successfully admitted into the prestigious “Konzertexamen” Postgraduate Program at the Berlin University of the Arts under the tutelage of professor Björn Lehmann.
THREE WORKSHOPS ON
FORTEPIANO
In this two-hour workshop, participants will be transported back in time as they explore the rich history of the piano. Led by professor Blondeel, they will be introduced to Clavichords from the Baroque Era, Fortepianos from Mozart’s time and even a Pleyel and other instruments from the early romantic period. The varying mechanisms and developments of the vintage pianos will be both explained and demonstrated.
CONTEMPORARY MUSIC
The goal of this two-hour workshop is to promote contemporary music appreciation, by analysing how key 20th century composers construct their pieces and how structure and syntax in non-tonal music differ from earlier music. Participants will gather round the piano and are encouraged to interact as Professor Lehmann demonstrates various contemporary piano pieces and poses questions.
CHAMBER MUSIC
In this group masterclass together with members of the Camerata Fiestravaganza orchestra, Professor Lehmann will highlight the most crucial attributes to pay attention to while working together as an ensemble to ensure smooth coordination and cooperation.
PERFORM A PIANO CONCERTO MOVEMENT 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. Last summer, seven participants from FIMA 2023 each performed a movement of a piano concerto with the orchestra at the Admiralspalast Theater Berlin.
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 VENUES
CARL BECHSTEIN HALL
ABOUT THE CARL BECHSTEIN HALL
The interior is modern, the hall is flooded with light and the acoustics are perfect for small ensembles. Up to 200 guests can be seated in the hall and can enjoy chamber concerts, piano recitals and recitals several times a year.
Collaborations with renowned organizers such as Klassik in Spandau and the Brandenburg Summer Concerts as well as concerts organized by the Carl Bechstein Foundation guarantee an unforgettable concert evening.
VINTAGE KEYBOARD INSTRUMENT COLLECTION
ABOUT THE VINTAGE KEYBOARD INSTRUMENT COLLECTION
Nearly fifty instruments currently make up the collection, the majority of which are fully restored and in playable condition.
PRACTICE ROOMS
ABOUT BECHSTEIN SPANDAU
Twelve sound-isolated practice rooms, equipped with brand-new grand pianos, ensure adequate practice opportunities for all participants. A recreational area and resting room are also located on-site.
DELUXE ACCOMMODATION OFFER
ABOUT KPM HOTEL & RESIDENCES
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 lite.
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.
APPLY NOW
TIER ONE
Base Participation Fee-
1x Lesson with Jacques Rouvier (Piano)
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2x Lessons with Björn Lehmann (Piano)
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2x Lessons with Lucas Blondeel (Fortepiano)
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2x Lessons with Shaun Choo (Piano)
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Fortepiano Workshop
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Contemporary Music Workshop
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Chamber Music Workshop
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Solo/Chamber Music Concert Performance
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Rehearsal & Recording of a Piano Concerto Movement with Orchestra -
Performance of a Piano Concerto Movement with Orchestra
* Click to apply now (no payment required)
TIER TWO
+ Concerto Recording-
1x Lesson with Jacques Rouvier (Piano)
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2x Lessons with Björn Lehmann (Piano)
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2x Lessons with Lucas Blondeel (Fortepiano)
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2x Lessons with Shaun Choo (Piano)
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Fortepiano Workshop
-
Contemporary Music Workshop
-
Chamber Music Workshop
-
Solo/Chamber Music Concert Performance
-
Rehearsal & Recording of a Piano Concerto Movement with Orchestra *
-
Performance of a Piano Concerto Movement with Orchestra
* For quality control purposes, recordings are explicitly for personal use only and may not be uploaded on public platforms without prior written permission.
SPECIAL TIER
+ Concerto Performance-
1x Lesson with Jacques Rouvier (Piano)
-
2x Lessons with Björn Lehmann (Piano)
-
2x Lessons with Lucas Blondeel (Fortepiano)
-
2x Lessons with Shaun Choo (Piano)
-
Fortepiano Workshop
-
Contemporary Music Workshop
-
Chamber Music Workshop
-
Solo/Chamber Music Concert Performance
-
Rehearsal & Recording of a Piano Concerto Movement with Orchestra
-
Performance of a Piano Concerto Movement with Orchestra *
* Subjected to a live audition process. Please see FAQ on payment below for more details.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Who can apply?
Because we believe that the activities offered at FIMA can benefit all classically-trained piano students, participants will be evaluated based on their skill alone, regardless of age. Hence, both budding young talents and more established pianists are welcome to join. Particularly young, talented but inexperienced piano students are even encouraged, as they will benefit the most from the opportunities offered.
Is there a closing date for registrations?
Interested applicants may submit their registration at any time from now till one week before the academy begins. However, do note that the early bird pricing will cease on 22nd May 2024.
When and how do applicants make payment?
Interested applicants may submit their applications now without requiring any payment. Upon reviewing the online video submission, they will be notified within a few days of the results of their application. If successful, applicants will then transfer the fee to a bank account provided. After payment, applicants should send us a proof of payment. Only then is the applicant’s participation confirmed.
In the case of the piano concerto packages, participants will only pay the additional +€500 upon evaluation and successful confirmation of their submitted pre-selection concerto recording. For those who opt for the concerto performance package, they will then only pay the remaining +€300 after passing the live audition on 31st July 2024.
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/chamber music 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 recording/performance, participants must play from memory.
How are participants chosen for the solo/chamber music concert?
The faculty members will collectively decide who plays what at the solo/chamber music concert, based on their impression working on the pieces during the lessons.
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.
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. Each participant will definitely get at least 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 will take place.
Participants can book accommodation directly through us at a special rate, with no pre-payment required. Just select the respective accommodation offer on the application form and we will follow-up with the rest. Alternatively, participants may of course book their own accommodation.
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, to further promote the cohesiveness of the class and encourage mingling, we will organise social activities on certain free evenings for participants and their accompanying parents/teachers, such as sampling various cuisines at delectable restaurants.