Chamber Music Institute

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How many years of private instruction should I have before applying to the Young Performers Program (ages nine to eighteen)?
We recommend that young musicians have at least three to four years of prior music study with a private teacher.

2. For the Young Performers Program, where do out-of-state families find housing?
In the past, students and families from outside the Bay Area have found housing through various online resources such as craigslist. Some families have relatives or friends in the area where they are able to stay for the three-week duration. While we are happy to provide minimal guidance with regard to housing, Music@Menlo assumes no responsibility for securing or recommending housing options for long-distance applicants.

3. Is a live audition required?
No, for applicants unable to travel to an audition location, we make our final decision based on the submitted recordings, teacher recommendation(s), and the written application materials. On occasion, we arrange Skype video auditions (Young Performers Program applicants only). In this instance, string players must provide their own accompanist.

4. I’m a pianist. May I include a collaborative work on my recordings?
You may include a collaborative piece in addition to the required solo repertoire.

5. If I’m in a preformed ensemble, can I submit one application for the group?
Yes, only one application and one application fee should be submitted. However, you should submit a list of ensemble members that includes mailing addresses and dates of birth for each member, and a biography/résumé for each ensemble member.

6. When will applicants be notified if they are invited to a live audition?
We try to provide three to five days’ advance notice, but you should hold the dates on your calendar for auditions in your city until confirmed.

7. At the live audition, do I need to play the same thing that is on my audition recording?
No, your repertoire selection for the live audition is your choice.

8. If I am a string player invited to a live audition, should I bring a pianist with me?
Yes, if possible. If you are not able to do so, please bring piano scores with you to your audition.

9. What does the typical daily Institute schedule look like?
The day begins at 8:45 a.m. and ends at 4:00 p.m., with three coaching/rehearsal sessions per day. In addition, each weekday includes either a master class or a Café Conversation (informal discussion session led by Music@Menlo’s artists and guests). Instruction takes place each day of the week except most Sundays. We encourage participants in both programs to attend as many evening concerts and Encounter lectures as possible (admission is free for Institute students).

10. When will I know if I have been accepted?
International Program applicants will be notified by March 1, 2013. Young Performers Program applicants will be notified by March 15, 2013.

11. What is the average age of participants?
In 2012, we had 29 Young Performers Program students with an average age of 15. There were 11 International Program students with an average age of 24.