The time spent here was the most influential experience so far in my education. It really opened up my eyes to what early music and historically informed performances are supposed to be like. The instructors were of high professional quality and were more than happy to have discussions about the material and the professional world. I was able to improve my craft, gain a love for my craft, and be involved in the richness of the art. Michael (MM candidate, Pennsylvania) The intensity and depth of the IBA program truly inspired me to continue on in the early music field. They taught me so much about what it means to be a baroque musician, and showed me how much I still have to learn and explore. I was unsure of how to begin to contemplate a career in the field, and this program provided me with exactly that information and experience. Annelise (BM, Connecticut) Studying at IBA was an extraordinary way to learn about baroque performance practice, and working with this caliber of faculty was one of the most valuable experiences for me. If you want to learn about style and performance practice, go to IBA! Morgan (DM candidate, New York) This experience opened my mind to the many possibilities in life as a musician. I enjoyed learning more about the richness of baroque music, which had not been my focus as a classical pianist. I realized that baroque music is not just limited to Handel and J. S. Bach, and there are huge resources for me to explore. The baroque dance classes really got me moving with the rhythm, and allowed me to feel the elegant and uplifting nature of the style. As a collaborator and soloist, I would like to create some projects with my wonderful IBA peers in the near future! Yimo (DM candidate, China) IBA is a fun, challenging summer intensive program that will absolutely benefit your understanding of and approach to baroque repertoire. I highly recommend it to those looking to take their performances to the next level. I honestly believe that my artistry has improved by leaps and bounds, utilizing what I learned here. Zachary (MM candidate, California) This program models how professional life works. The lectures and teaching were amazing and really helpful. The most important thing I took from the program is that I am leaving here with a deep desire to continue singing, to study, and to audition. Desire is something that was diminishing due to how complicated it can be for a singer to afford to live from their art, and in my case, to forge a career on a continent in which you are a foreigner. But… here I learned that the color of my skin does not matter if I work hard to reach my goals... I’m leaving here with great desire to continue singing. Sergio (MM candidate, Spain) My time at IBA gave me the confidence and skills to expand my horizons as a performer and a musician. The supportive atmosphere of the program allows for risk-taking and encourages curiosity. I’m leaving this program feeling inspired ... IBA is an intense but very worthwhile two weeks. Jenna (BM, New York) The International Baroque Academy experience was an unforgettable one... Being able to make new friends, to create music, to study with amazing faculty and sing in beautiful venues is something I will cherish forever. IBA helped me take a giant step forward in my studies. Jorge (BM candidate, California)
My experience at IBA was wonderful. Between the immersive experience, the ability to work with leading experts from around the world, and the opportunity to build relationships with them and with the up and coming new generation of baroque voices, I cannot praise this program highly enough! Kevin (MM, Canada) The IBA staff, lecturers, and community of support helped answer important questions with clarity and realism. I have been highly fortunate to work with and learn from these very motivated professionals in the field, gleaning information that is highly important for my career, and becoming more specific to details in my musicianship. To any young professionals considering this program, I highly recommend attending and absorbing all you can about the art of early music and the information this wonderful staff has to share! Lauren (MM candidate, Washington) Although I’ve loved baroque music for a long time, I’m new to the genre as a performer. My experience with the International Baroque Academy opened my eyes to all that is possible in this area of the classical music world. Although my colleagues here had unique voices and life stories—many of which include significant difficulties and/or responsibilities... we definitely all belonged here. That has been especially encouraging to me, because before coming to IBA, I had serious doubts about my place in the genre as a black person, a disabled person, and a singer with a large instrument but a small bank account. The IBA faculty are all very experienced and are currently working in their fields. Their encouragement, constructive criticism, and generosity with their time has shown me that I am good enough for this music and that it is worth it to invest in getting better. This program has changed me as a person and I will always be grateful to the faculty and to everyone who helped get me here. Victoria (BM candidate, Michigan) I would definitely recommend IBA to any student serious about singing professionally. At IBA, I felt like I was in a professionally-paced performance environment while also feeling so supported by all faculty. After completing this program, I now feel more confident in approaching my professional goals, and have gained valuable knowledge of baroque performance practice in diverse repertoire. Sarah (MM, Indiana) Yilun (MM, China) At IBA I was able to make new, incredibly talented and supportive friends! The connections that I’ve made here will surely benefit me as I continue to grow as a young artist. Throughout my time at IBA, I was surrounded by incredible musicians and supportive peers which fostered a beautiful environment to build confidence and further inspire my love for this craft. Christopher (MM candidate, Delaware) This program has been life-changing for me as a singer and person… Attending IBA has given me a piece of hope in my pursuit of a singing career in early music. I loved meeting other people that love this music too, and I will cherish this experience. Kate (MM, Florida)
This is a colorful, high-level quality program for all musicians who love early music. It’s not only an academy that covers many topics on early music ... but an opportunity to explore your future potential and your career. And the faculty is extremely warm and fabulous!
Empowering the Next Generation of Early Music Specialists…