This is a performance-oriented advanced training programme, led by Alberto Bocini and aimed at ensembles with exceptional artistic skills who are strongly committed to pursuing a professional career. It comprises two training paths:
The training program is enriched by the presence of great artists who, as Guest Professors, will meet the students for specialized insights, workshops, artistic projects, and ensemble music activities. In particular, the academic year 2024-2025 includes masterclasses with: Renaud Garcia-Fons, Matthew McDonald (Principal Double Bass of the Berliner Philharmoniker), Rick Stotijn, and Francesco Siragusa (Principal Double Bass of the Teatro alla Scala).
The program also includes a rich schedule of concerts and special artistic projects, including the opportunity to be part of the Stauffer String Ensemble, which next year will be directed in two special concerts by Kolja Blacher and John Axelrod.
It is also possible to participate in some sessions of the course with the “Ad Hoc” Double Bass Formula, aimed at musicians interested in attending a masterclass with Alberto Bocini as part of the Stauffer course, with a view to possible future admission to the annual courses. By choosing this formula, it will be possible to attend up to a maximum of two sessions during the academic year, subject to availability.
Class Schedule:
October 7-9, 2024
November 4-6, 2024
December 3-5, 2024
January 7-9, 2025
February 3-5, 2025
March 3-5, 2025
April 14-16, 2025
May 5-7, 2025
June 3-5, 2025
July 2-4, 2025
Application deadline: 23:59 on 9th September 2024.
Age limit: no more than 28 years on the application deadline date, for the High Specialization and Performance Diploma formula. Exceptions are allowed in the presence of exceptional artistic qualities, upon evaluation by the Professor and the Academic Direction.
The following documents must be attached to the online application:
Once the registration is completed, the candidate must forward an e-mail to accademia@stauffer.org (Subject: Double Bass – Candidate’s Surname) specifying the preferred attendance mode that wishes to enroll for.
The admission examinations will take place on September 17, 2024, from 10:00 am, exclusively ‘in person’ at the Stauffer Academy, via S. Martino 6, Cremona.
Exam programme:
The Professor may request the performance of the entire programme or part of it.
Candidates will receive the results of the selections by e-mail after the conclusion of the admission examinations.
Piano accompanist
Stauffer Academy provides an accompanying pianist during the admission exam. It is not possible to rehearse with the pianist before the exam.
Should the candidate wish to be accompanied by his/her own pianist, his/her name should be communicated by e-mail to accademia@stauffer.org, enclosing a copy of his/her ID.
To register with the “Ad Hoc” Double Bass Formula, please send a video recording of two contrasting movements/pieces, following the specified guidelines, to the email address accademia@stauffer.org by September 3rd.
The candidate must create a YouTube video link and include it in the email, specifying the chosen programme in the video description. On this page, you can find all the necessary information to create a video that meets all the requirements.
It will also be possible to enrol using this formula during the academic year, subject to the availability of the professor.
A registration fee of €55.00 is required for the application. The fee is non-refundable.
Tuition fees are entirely supported by the Stauffer Foundation.
Other costs related to travel, board and lodging in Cremona and other personal expenses are borne by the students themselves.
More information can be found in the FAQ.
Accademia Stauffer - Double Bass