Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the Vianden International Music Festival & School?
A: The Vianden International Music Festival & School is an intensive two-weeks summer music program and concert series that gathers musicians from many countries. The Festival is an independent nonprofit organization and is organized under the auspices of US Embassy in Luxembourg and the Community of Vianden.

Q: When is the application due?
A: The deadline for applications is March 1, 2011
Q: Will applications be accepted after the deadline?
A: Yes, if student vacancies remain.

Q: Can I apply online?
A: Yes. You can print out the application, complete it and scan-email. Remember to check the “Application Checklist” before submitting it. Direct online applications are not available.

Q: How are the students selected for admission?
A: The selection criteria include the student’s ability to play and the repertoire. All auditions are by video/audio tape only.

Q: Can you provide and example of audition recording program?
A: Your audition recording should contain two contrasting works of your choice. These may include a slow movement, a virtuoso piece, or two compositions from different historical periods, a set or two of vocal selections for the vocalists. The total length of your recording should be about 15 minutes.

Q: What age groups participate in the Festival?
A: There is no official restriction of the age. The students may range from 14 to 50+ and include advanced high school, college and graduate students and amateur musicians, as well as young professionals. All students under age 14 should be accompanied by a parent or a guardian !!!

Q: Where will I live and eat during the Festival?
A: The residence is arranged in two local hotels of Vianden (double occupancy), both of which are in walking distance to the Festival school. Full breakfast and lunches are served at the hotel daily. In the evening you are free to explore the local restaurants for a dinner or dine out of town if on day trip.

Q: Will I have an opportunity to perform?
A: Yes. The focal point of the Festival is chamber music. We shall make every effort that all qualified students participate in the concerts (chamber groups). Solo opportunities are reserved for the outstanding talents and determined by the artistic leadership of the Festival in consultation with the faculty.

Q: Will I need to bring my stand?
A: Yes, please bring your own stand.

Q: Do I need to bring any music scores?
A: In general, securing of the printed music is sole responsibility of the students. In case of an obscure repertoire, the music will be scan-emailed to the students.If you plan to prepare repertoire with piano accompaniment or chamber music, you need to provide the scores.

Q: What kind of clothes should I bring?
A: Bring your normal summer clothes, a swimming suit if you like and some warm clothes, perhaps a sweater or a jacket. The weather in this part of the world is unpredictable. You may check the internet for a long-term forecast prior to your departure. Your concert clothes should contain the regular for group performances: white/black top, black bottom, black shoes. If you are scheduled to perform solo bring your favorite concert clothes. Long skirts are preferable to pants for females. The following clothes are not appropriate for evening concerts both if you perform or attend: tank tops, shorts, jeans, flip-flops. You might also want to bring an alarm clock with you.

Q: What can students do on free days?
A: The free days are Saturday and Sunday. There will be no classes held on these days (rehearsals are possible if needed) so many students will want to explore the lovely area of Vianden, swim in the local lake or go on day trips or perhaps visit nearby cities and tourist attractions. There may be however an afternoon or evening concerts on weekends (please consult the concert schedule).

Q: Are scholarships available?
A: A limited number of scholarships are available, which are strictly merit based. The written request accompanied by the teachers supportive letter is required.  Please explore your local community, including arts, religious or civic organizations, schools and private donors for alternate sources of financial aid. Private donors are entitled to receive a tax deduction receipt from the festival since we are a non-profit organization.

Q: Will I be able to play chamber music during the festival?
A: Absolutely. The focal point of the Festival is Chamber music. Pre-formed chamber groups are encouraged to apply, each member of preformed chamber group (at least three members) receives a 150 euro discount  All students will be receiving their  chamber assignments by June and have to arrive to the festival ready for rehearsal the next day. Students must bring their solo and chamber music parts and scores since there is no music library on the location. Chamber groups will be coached by the festival faculty for performances.

Q: Can I use my debit or credit cards there?
A: There are banks in town where you can exchange currency, cash your travelers checks, get cash from ATM machine. It is recommended that you bring both debit and credit cards with you.

Q: How can I get to Vianden?
A: Please remember that in the Grand Duchy four languages are used: Luxembourgish, French, German and English. You can find travel directions on the "Location and Travel" page of the festival's website.