perpetualmotion

Ok, so I was accepted to:
Pianofest in the Hamptons:June 16-July 14
Fontainebleau Music School in France: July 6-August 3, Morningside Music Bridge in Canada:July 3-August 3.

I'm still awaiting reply from Montecito Music Festival in Santa Barbara, which is from July 21-August 2

My original plan was to leave Pianofest early to go to France, but the director at Pianofest says I have to stay throughout the camp or I can't go. All three camps I got full or nearly full scholarship to.

So now I have no idea what I should do. Pianofest only chooses 14 pianists internationally ages 18 and over to study in the hamptons with really renowned guest artists, such as arie vardi, yefin bronfman, veda kaplinsky. Fontainebleau chooses 40 instrumentalists internationally ages 18 and over and there will be the added plus of being able to go to Paris every weekend.

Please give my any suggestions/advice!! I am totally stuck. The thing is, I think this is the last summer for me to go to music festivals since I dont' plan to major in music and will be preoccupied with internships once college starts.

and feel free to ask questions.

violadad

The process of applying to a number of programs can lead to conflict and scheduling dilemas.

Many programs, particularly the highly selective or full fellowship programs will expect a full committment in exchange for the $ incentive of attending tuition free or fully subsidized.

Some will admit you on a truncated schedule basis, but will reduce/rescind any offered money; others will prohibit you from coming if you expect to leave early. On rare occaisions, in particular programs, for exceptional musicians or for very specific instrumental needs, a program may split the time between two equal level musicians. This is done normally by the program director, and at the request of a particularly strong student or faculty member. It is usually initiated internally, and is not the norm. It can be much more common with specific programs, where all parties involved have a history of background, experience and on going or prior collaboration.

I would not consider attending, and then fabricating an emergency scenario that allows you an early out. The music world is small and a bad rep will haunt you and limit your options for years. I do not accuse you of thinking along these lines. The warning is a caveat for anyone who might contemplate such a plan.

Pulling out early can wreak havoc with end of program performance concerts, leave ensembles unbalanced, etc.

You've got some great options. I'd urge you to pick the one that affords you the best overall experience for your current needs, be it peer level, resume/contact building or study with a particular instructor(s).

Edit: or European experience, weekend in Paris. If you don't plan undergrad or grad performance, or european travel is your goal, this may be the best option.

Good luck.

mamenyu

I agree with violadad that if this is your last summer at a festival, the Fontainbleau festival sounds like a more enriching experience -- Fontainbleau is a lovely area and close to Paris; nothing better.
Pianofest is nicely located -- the Hamptons are a wealthy resort area at the tip of Long Island, and the faculty is first-rate, but do you want that intensity and walks at the beach or Paris?

lorelei2702

I agree...if music will not be your professional quest, the international experience and opportunity will be most enriching. You are more likely to continue your musical life as a collaborative musician if you are not studying as a soloist. The Fountainbleau experience is more about chamber music, is that right? Congratulations and good luck. Lorelei

musmom2

You must be really talented to have so many summer options! Music aside, based on location and cultural experience, Fountainbleau would be a no-brainer for me! However, I love la France and le français! Studied in Paris for a year in college and have been back several times. Especially if you haven't travelled to Europe before, you will have a wonderful time, some great experiences and opportunities and make some new international friends!

Singersmom07

Put prestige aside and reflect on what you want out of your summer. As a first step do not think in terms of the programs, just what do you want to experience or accomplish? Then check which one gives you that. You do not need the prestige factor to continue studies since that is not your plan. So what do YOU want to get out of the experience? Which program gives you that? No one else needs to be happy or impressed with the choice.

ImperialZeppelin

I'd say "go with your gut!" Do you want a Clambake or Coq au Vin?

All kidding aside, you can't make a "wrong" decision so go with your instincts.

mamenyu

You might also think through why you selected these particular three programs, all very different in size and emphasis -- and location! Also, the programs are all located in expensive areas -- so you should also consider your costs. Paris is one of the most expensive cities in the world. The Hamptons are also a very pricey place, and New York is at least as expensive as Paris (unless the dollar plummets even further).

perpetualmotion

wow thanks for all the inputs!
after some deliberating and talking to my teacher about the situation, i'm pretty sure i will go to france. Since I received full scholarships for each, cost is not a deciding factor. Since I've already been to NY a few times before, I think going to France (I've never been to Europe) will be an eye-opening experience.

As intense as Pianofest seems, I think it will do me more good to explore France and be able to relax AND play chamber music!

Vieuxtemps5

The city is so gross in the summer, even in the Hamptons.

I think in the summer it's important to have fun too. You will work harder if you're having fun, trust me. You do your time in the early morning/afternoon, and at night just let loose. Even though I'm not a pianist, I do think studying with Mr. Bronfman is a really opportunity, and you should do it some time. He can tell you things that a lot of teachers with less performing background cannot. I also think it's good to go somewhere abroad. It's a great way to travel the world. I have decided from now on that that is what I am going to do... use summer festivals and competitions as an excuse to travel, so I think your idea is a good one.

violinmom

Don't wait 'til the last minute to get that passport or plane reservations!

Sounds like a wonderful opportunity - have fun!

mamenyu

and why not post a note here about what the program was like -- it would be helpful for next year's applicants!