Hi everyone, has anyone had experience with the Heifetz Jr. Festival? I’m wondering how much time parents typically spend in Stanton, VA: do you usually visit or attend performances, or are the kids fully engaged for the full three weeks so parents can plan other activities? Would really appreciate any insights!
When my son attended the Heifetz, I just dropped him off at the airport to fly to Staunton – his first ever flight alone at age 14 – and picked him up at the airport when he returned a few weeks later.
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Thanks, TiggerDad! That’s very reassuring! It seems your son had a positive experience there. Did you have a showcase schedule in advance or any visibility where the kid would perform? We live not too far away and would love to attend a couple of events but still would need to travel so need to plan that in advance…
It’s been more than a decade ago when my son attended the summer program, so the program might not run the same way today. I believe the showcase concert schedule was pre-announced, and I remember watching videos of the Stars of Tomorrow series. Since you’re planning on attending some of these concerts, I’d give them a call for accurate and detailed information. https://heifetzinstitute.org/2026-festival-of-concerts/
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Thanks so much - I will do that!
If your child is attending the Heifetz Institute, congratulations! It is truly a top-tier program that offers an incredible growth experience.
My son studied there with Grigory Kalinovsky and Mark Kaplan—both phenomenal instructors who, I’m happy to see, are still on the faculty. While the Borromeo String Quartet joined the roster after my son’s time, he had the pleasure of working with them at a different festival and they are equally outstanding. Your child is in excellent hands!
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Your son seems to be a very gifted musician. It’s inspiring that the festival attracts that kind of talent! I hope he’s still pursuing music, either in his free time or perhaps even as a career. Thanks so much for the time you took to answer my questions.
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The talent level at Heifetz is exceptional. My son’s roommate at the time—a peer—became the youngest cellist to win the International Tchaikovsky Competition and currently holds a faculty position at Juilliard. That speaks volumes about the atmosphere there.
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