About the Program
The Baroque & Classical Academy brings emerging string musicians and quartets to Carmel for a month of intensive study, performance, and mentorship with internationally acclaimed Carmel Bach Festival musicians. Through rehearsals, coaching, masterclasses, and workshops, participants develop their artistry while gaining practical skills to support a career as a professional musician.
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Public Masterclasses
Participate in public masterclasses focused on style and interpretation.
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Lessons & Mentorship
Receive private lessons, chamber music coaching, and mentorship from Festival musicians.
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Festival Orchestra Performance
Perform a program with the Festival Orchestra on the Festival’s main stage.
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Academy Showcase Concert
Be featured in the Baroque & Classical Academy Showcase Concert.
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A Month in Carmel-by-the-Sea
Learn alongside internationally acclaimed musicians for a month in Carmel-by-the-Sea.
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Stipend, Airfare & Housing
Receive a stipend, round-trip airfare within North America, and housing.
Important Dates & Eligibility
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February 15
Application Deadline
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March 15
Acceptance Notifications
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April 1
Commitment Deadline
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July 3 – August 2
Academy in Session
- This program is designed for advanced string players currently pursuing, or who have completed, an undergraduate or graduate degree in music performance.
- The Festival strongly encourages pre-formed string quartets to apply together and gives preference to established ensembles. Individual musicians are also encouraged to apply and will be considered for participation in the program.
Application
Application Requirements
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Audio Selections Provided electronically
Three contrasting audio selections: one movement of solo Bach, one other Baroque piece, and a piece from the Classical era. The Baroque pieces should be performed on gut strings at 415; the Classical piece can be at 430 or 440. Submit MP3 or video files.
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Résumé
Please be sure to include professional ensemble experience in your résumé.
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Letter of Interest
Include your artistic goals, your interest in outreach in your own local communities, as well as your interest in the Academy program.
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Recommendation
At least one letter (or email) of recommendation from music professional(s) other than your teacher.
If you are submitting a letter of recommendation, please use the button below to access the recommendation form.
Submit a Recommendation (opens in a new window) -
Pre-formed String Quartets
See regular admission requirements, plus submit a recording of two contrasting movements from a Haydn string quartet.
If you are applying as part of a pre-formed quartet, designate one member as the group’s primary contact. Only the primary contact needs to upload the group recording. The application form will ask whether you are part of a group and, if so, whether you are the group’s primary contact.
How to Apply
To apply for the program, please complete the form below. Having trouble viewing or completing the form? Click here to open it in a new window.
If you have any questions, please email the program director, Edwin Huizinga.
I had the incredible privilege of being a BCA Fellow at the Carmel Bach Festival. What began as a fledgling quartet blossomed into a truly special musical journey. Eliana, Ela, Luka, and I had the unique opportunity to immerse ourselves in a vast array of quartet repertoire in an environment where it was truly all about us. We were given the space, time, and encouragement from an inspiring community of musicians, and we had the chance to meet and share our music with so many incredible people along the way. Looking back, I feel incredibly grateful for the experience, and I’m excited to see where our quartet’s journey takes us next!