IIMIF Program

The IIMIF Program

Each aspect of the IIMIF program has been crafted to cultivate technical and artistic growth. With a maximum enrollment of 25 participants, we offer a challenging curriculum within a supportive atmosphere.

Chamber Music

Chamber music explores the essence of being a musician, and is a major pillar of our program. Students are assigned to ensembles 4-8 weeks before they arrive at the program based on audition and application materials.

Each day, ensembles are given a minimum of 90 minutes of ensemble rehearsal time and are coached by faculty and guest artists. Performance opportunities include masterclasses and the final chamber music concert.

Lessons & Master Classes

Our faculty is dedicated to guiding participants. They work to honor participant’s technical and artistic skills while providing them with feedback and encouraging growth in participant-chosen areas and otherwise. The results of the provided advice may be applied immediately but also explored well beyond the conclusion of the program. Each participant will receive three private lessons focusing on their solo repertoire. Masterclasses (solo and chamber music) offer additional learning opportunities, both for participants and observers. *

Performance Opportunities

Performances motivate participants to work towards a concrete goal and enable us to celebrate the effort that has been put forth. Students may choose to participate in the optional solo recital and/or masterclasses. All participants will be featured in the ensemble concert at the end of the program.

Faculty Performances and Presentations

Heralded guest artists and our very own faculty offer participants numerous performances throughout the program. In addition, faculty present panel discussions on topics including effective practice methods, performance anxiety, and careers in music. Individual faculty present seminars on a variety of topics pertinent to technique, artistry, and life in music.

Chamber Orchestra

A chamber orchestra is an ensemble of soloists, working together as a team. Enjoy this vibrant experience. This ensemble meets several times during the program for short but intense rehearsals, and will perform at the conclusion of the program. Past repertoire has included the premiere of new music written especially for the IIMIF program.

Interdisciplinary Approach

Our curated selection of interdisciplinary arts experiences provides participants with a comprehensive perspective on life in and around music. Become a more expressive and communicative person (and performer) through workshops exploring movement, improvisation, stage presence, and more. In addition, faculty lectures address the skills and pathways to a variety of careers in music.

Yoga For Musicians

Mind, body, and spirit are re-energized with a daily guided yoga practice. These gentle, low-impact stretches are designed to relieve stress from key muscle groups of the neck, shoulders, wrists, hands, lower back, and calves. You will learn essential postures that stretch or strengthen, improve mental focus, increase breath control, prevent injuries, and bring ease to your practice and performance.

Reflections

At the conclusion of each day, participants and faculty gather to discuss their daily experiences and deepen community bonds. This guided group discourse encourages us to remember all the meaningful moments and lessons from that day. During this time, questions and/or concerns are addressed, and we acknowledge our participants' collective role in guiding each other through the program. Additionally, throughout the week, IIMIF alumni return as special guests to share their experiences in the world of music – from auditions, performances, and competitions to similarities between music and athletics – everyone has someone to offer!

Friendships

One of the top priorities of our program is to nurture support and camaraderie between all participants, regardless of age, instrument, or background. We have been, and continue to be ecstatic that IIMIF has resulted in lasting friendships based on a shared passion for music. Recently, we found out that students from our very first program (2003) are still in touch with each other, criss-crossing the globe for visits and musical collaborations! Many participants that found themselves nervous at the onset of the program have blossomed musically and personally, allowing them to form deep relationships with other participants and staff.

"Everyone was so welcoming and I made incredible friends to last a lifetime. The 10 days went by so fast, and it's amazing to be having so much fun yet be learning nonstop. This was a musical experience to remember and I would wholeheartedly recommend it to others." -Carolyn S.

"At the end of the program, you not only have lifelong lessons, but also lifelong friendships to take back home with you.” -Sam Z.