Frost Chopin Academy

Frost Chopin Academy and Festival 2026 | June 14 – 21, 2026 

Each participant receives four in-depth lessons with our distinguished master teachers. These individual lessons allow for personalized feedback on performance technique, stylistic interpretation, and historical context, and they are open to the public. All instruction centers exclusively on the works of Chopin.  

2026 Teaching Faculty: Garrick Ohlsson, Dang Thai Son, Hung-Kuan Chen, Kate Liu, and Kevin Kenner. 

2026 Workshop Presenters: John Rink, Ted Rosenthal, and Ben Laude 

2026 Collaborative Artists: Apollon Musagète Quartet & Brian Powell 

Our masterclasses and workshops are designed to deepen understanding and refine performance of Chopin’s music. These sessions are open to the public and free of charge. 

Featured Workshops for 2026: 

• John Rink (University of Cambridge) One of the world’s leading Chopin scholars, Prof. Rink brings unmatched insight into the poetic and structural dimensions of Chopin’s concert works. His workshops are a masterclass in musical depth, offering participants a rare opportunity to explore Chopin’s genius through the lens of research and expressive exploration. 

• Ted Rosenthal (Jazz & Classical Crossover) Acclaimed jazz pianist and composer Ted Rosenthal leads a dynamic workshop exploring the fusion of classical and jazz traditions. Participants will discover new ways to approach improvisation, phrasing, and stylistic flexibility — expanding their musical vocabulary across genres. 

• Ben Laude (Head of Piano at Tonebase; Creator of The Chopin Podcast) This year, we are proud to welcome Ben Laude—one of the most dynamic voices in today’s music scene. A gifted pianist, compelling interviewer, and creator of acclaimed podcasts and livestreams, Ben brings a rare blend of artistry and insight to every conversation. Throughout the week, he will host a series of engaging panels and thought-provoking discussions, enriching the festival with his signature depth and energy. 

Participants of the 2026 Frost Chopin Academy & Festival are invited to audition for two special performance opportunities: 

Chopin Piano Concertos 

• Selected students will perform either Chopin’s Piano Concerto No. 1 in E minor, Op. 11 or Piano Concerto No. 2 in F minor, Op. 21 with the internationally acclaimed and one of the most charismatic and innovative ensembles on today’s chamber music scene, Apollon Musagète Quartet, joined by Frost School of Music bass faculty member Brian Powell. This is a rare chance to collaborate with top-tier musicians in a professional setting.

Schumann Piano Quintet in E-flat major, Op. 44 

• Finalists will rehearse and perform alongside Apollon Musagète Quartet  

• Notes: For both categories, winners will be featured in a special performance at the University of Miami’s stunning Newman Recital Hall. 

• All finalists, regardless of outcome, will also participate in outreach performances open to the local community, gaining valuable experience in collaborative artistry and audience engagement. 

Audition Requirements: 

Chopin Concerto Audition: 

•  Applicants must submit a video recording of the first movement of their chosen Chopin concerto at the time of application. 

Schumann Quintet Audition: 

• Applicants must submit a video recording of the piano part of two movements, where one of the selections must be the first movement, of Schumann’s Piano Quintet. 

Application Deadline: March 1, 2026 

The Frost Chopin Academy & Festival offers a uniquely inspiring atmosphere where participants share the stage with world-renowned artists across generations. Students may be selected to perform as opening acts for celebrated performers such as pianists Garrick Ohlsson and Kate Liu, the Apollon Musagète Quartet, and the genre-defying Ted Rosenthal Trio. 

Each evening features captivating concerts by our distinguished faculty and outstanding student performers, with programs centered on the music of Chopin. The Festival also broadens its musical scope with a special final concert dedicated to jazz and cross-genre collaboration — a celebration of artistic diversity and innovation. 

Beyond music, the Academy fosters lasting friendships and joyful memories. This year’s social highlight includes a relaxing and centering Yoga session at the beginning of the week, as well as a festive evening of food and dancing featuring a Zumba workshop.  

• Tuition: $2,000 

• Includes: 8 nights of on-campus housing (bed linen and towels included), 3 meals/day (breakfast-lunch-dinner), full access to Frost School of Music practice rooms during operating hours (to be confirmed with FSoM operations at a later time) 

• Scholarships: All applicants are considered based on audition video merit

• Off-campus discount: $600 for students arranging their own accommodations and opting out of our on-campus housing and meals. 

• Note: Parents may not stay in on-campus housing. Two dorm counselors will be on-site to supervise and to support student needs.