The British Isles Music Festival: Elevate Your Musical Journey
Where Talent Meets Opportunity
The British Isles Music Festival is a prestigious residential masterclass and chamber music course, designed to bring together talented conservatoire students and young professionals from across the globe. With an age range of 18 to 32, musicians are welcome to apply individually or as part of a pre-formed ensemble. Our world-class faculty, drawn from top conservatories across the UK and Europe, is here to guide you on the path to musical excellence.
Unlock Your Potential with Expert Coaching
Learn from the Best to Become Your Best.
The festival provides intensive coaching in both solo and chamber music, offering invaluable performance experience and expert guidance. Masterclasses and chamber music sessions are designed to help you refine your technique, expand your repertoire, and gain unique insights from our renowned faculty. Daily public concerts offer a chance to showcase your talents and gain real-world experience performing complete works.
Immerse Yourself in Chamber Music
Collaborate on solo, duo, and ensemble works, with support from resident pianists and Baroque specialists.
Bursaries and Financial Support
Making World-Class Training Accessible
We believe that financial barriers should not stand in the way of musical talent. A limited number of bursaries are available on a first-come, first-served basis, taking into account both financial circumstances and playing level. These grants help make the festival more accessible, though they typically don’t cover the full fee.
Tailored Support for Aspiring Musicians
Small Class Sizes for Maximum Impact
With small, carefully curated class sizes—violin and flute classes limited to 12 participants, and other classes capped at 8—you’ll receive individualised attention from our esteemed faculty. This personal approach ensures that every participant gets the guidance they need to elevate their artistry and performance skills.
Join a Global Community of Musicians
Connect, Collaborate, and Create with Peers from Around the World
Each year, the British Isles Music Festival attracts around 60 musicians from over 25 countries, creating a dynamic and international atmosphere. Over 120 works are programmed throughout the week, allowing you to explore new repertoire and perform with fellow musicians from diverse backgrounds. Concerts are professionally video-recorded, providing a valuable portfolio for your future career.
The British Isles Music Festival: Your Next Step Towards Musical Excellence
An Inspiring Setting for Musical Growth
Be Part of Something Exceptional
Join us for a transformative experience that will help you grow as an artist, connect with like-minded musicians, and build lasting professional relationships.
The British Isles Music Festival is your chance to take your musicianship to the next level in a vibrant, collaborative, and inspiring setting.
The festival takes place at the renowned Sherborne Girls School, home to a stunning new concert hall and purpose-built music center.
With outstanding facilities including numerous classrooms and practice rooms, you’ll have everything you need to focus on your music in a supportive and inspiring environment.