New for 2026!

Expanded opportunities for young artists with a flexible new format: a full 6-week session or two 3-week options with the Strings Program now spanning six weeks, and the Piano Program spanning three weeks.

Areas of study

Piano

Table Of Contents
  1. Faculty
  2. Program Highlights
  3. Application Materials
  4. A Day in the Life
  5. Costs and Financial Aid

Join us on Madeline Island for three inspiring weeks of intensive chamber music study. This immersive program pairs pianists with exceptional string players and world-class faculty, offering daily rehearsals, personalized coaching, and frequent performance opportunities. Participants refine ensemble skills, expand their solo and chamber repertoire, and collaborate in a close-knit artistic community set amid the natural beauty of Lake Superior.

Program Dates

July 12 – August 2, 2026

Application Deadline

February 15, 2026

Eligibility
  • Pianists ages 14-24 OR currently enrolled at a college, university, or conservatory
  • Pre-formed piano trios, quartets, and quintets are encouraged to apply (Session 2 only)
Applications open Nov 1

Faculty

Piano
  • Wendy Chen

    Wendy Chen

In addition, piano students will work with Session 2 strings faculty.

Program Highlights

Curriculum

  • 1 hour of chamber music coaching per day
  • 2 hours of chamber music rehearsal per day
  • 2 hours of scheduled individual practice per day
  • Private lessons on solo repertoire and chamber music
  • Faculty presentations on rehearsal techniques, artistic life, and career paths

Performance Opportunities

  • Weekly public concerts (each group performs 1–2 movements)
  • Weekly master classes with ensembles-in-residence
  • Piano Showcase concert featuring solo and chamber music repertoire

Application Materials

Applications are submitted through our online form. Video auditions are required for all applicants and must be uploaded directly to your application prior to the submission deadline.

A letter of recommendation from your current private teacher or chamber music coach is required. You will need to provide your recommender’s email address in the application and we will contact them requesting an electronic letter.

Audition Requirements
  • Two works contrasting in style and tempo

A Day in the Life

8:00 AM – 8:30 AM – Breakfast

8:50 AM – 12:10 PM – Rehearsals, coachings, private lessons, or individual practice

12:15 PM – 1:00 PM – Lunch

1:20 PM – 3:30 PM – Rehearsals, coachings, private lessons, or individual practice

3:30 PM – 6:00 PM – Free time

6:00 PM – 6:45 PM – Dinner

7:00 PM – 8:30 PM– Faculty presentations, master classes, and performances

Costs and Financial Aid

Application Fee

Before December 15

Individuals: $75

Pre-Formed Groups: $110

After December 15

Individuals: $125

Pre-Formed Groups: $175

Program Fees

3-week session

Tuition: $3,300

Room & Board: $2,200

Total*: $5,500

*Includes tuition, housing, and meals. Transportation to the program is not included.

Financial Assistance

Financial aid is granted to students according to demonstrated financial need. On average, awards cover 50% of program fees. Applicants must complete supplementary questions within the application and submit relevant tax documents to be eligible for financial aid.

Collegiate-level applicants seeking merit-based scholarships should indicate they would like to be considered for a Fellowship.

Fellowships

Madeline Island Chamber Music offers fully-funded fellowships to a select group of collegiate-level string and piano students who demonstrate outstanding artistry and a commitment to chamber music. In addition to full participation in all program activities, Fellowship recipients perform in high-profile concerts and receive individualized mentorship, including potential collaborative opportunities with our world-class faculty.

Applications open Nov 1

60%

of Madeline Island participants receive financial assistance