High Specialisation Course – Cello

The course, led by Frans Helmerson, is aimed at cellists with exceptional artistic qualities, committed to establishing a professional career. Through an integrated course that including individual lessons with the Professor, meetings with renowned artists and teachers, and extensive opportunities for public performances, the course aims to consolidate the technical and interpretive skills of the students, widen their repertoire, and promote the start of their artistic and professional career.

 

The course pianist is Monica Cattarossi.

Masterclasses: Nicolas Altstaedt, Enrico Dindo, Giovanni Sollima

Chamber Music Masterclasses: Andrea Lucchesini, Enrico Pace

 

Duration of the course

The duration and the dates of the course are about to be defined. In addition to individual classes, a variety of integrative activities are planned, including in-depth masterclasses with guest professors, concerts, and artistic projects, open to all students. 

 

Age limit: no more than 30 years old on the application deadline date (for new enrollments). 

 

Application deadline: 11:59 pm on September 23, 2024. 

  

The following documents should be attached to the application: 

• Copy of a valid identity document 

• Copy of degree, or self-certification of course of study 

• Curriculum vitae and any repertoire already studied 

• Audition programme 

  

 

Admission exams will be held exclusively in person at the Stauffer Academy, Via S. Martino 6, Cremona, on October 21, 2024, from 10 a.m.

  The first classes of this course, for all admitted students, begin immediately after auditions and the announcement of selections.

  

Admission Programme 

• J.S. Bach: a Suite for solo cello of your choice (BWV 1007-1012). Performance by heart is recommended. 

• First movement of a repertoire concerto for cello and orchestra 

• A Sonata, or similar composition for cello and piano (the candidate should choose Concerto and Sonata from different periods) 

• A capriccio by Alfredo Piatti or an etude by David Popper 

The Professor may require the candidate to perform the entire program or a part of it. 

Candidates will receive the results of the selections at the end of the admission exams, by e-mail. 

  

Piano accompanist 

Stauffer Academy provides an accompanying pianist during the admission exam. It is not possible to rehearse with the pianist before the exam. 

Should the candidate wish to be accompanied by his/her own pianist, his/her name should be communicated by e-mail to accademia@stauffer.org, enclosing a copy of his/her ID. 

 

A registration fee of €55.00 is required for the application. The fee is non-refundable. 

  

Tuition fees are entirely supported by the Stauffer Foundation. 

Other costs related to travel, board and lodging in Cremona and other personal expenses are borne by the students themselves.