Frequently Asked Questions

What is the dress code?

For lessons we suggest casual and comfortable yet nice clothes; ripped/torn jeans, low cute clothing are not appropirate. You will need concert attire for the masterclasses. Masterclasses: Men: suit jacket and tie (optional), long-sleeve collared shirt, khakis or slacks. Colorful ties are acceptable. Women: suit/pants, or dress that falls below the knee. Colorful and black attire are both acceptable.



What is the repertoire for auditions? Do I need an accompanist?

2 contrasting selections, minimum of 3 minutes each. Examples include: - contrasting movements (slow/fast) of the same sonata, concerto, etc. - a slow movement of a Romantic piece, a fast movement of a Baroque piece Piano accompaniment (for non-piano applicants) is not required; however, you may submit a recording or live performance with piano, if you wish.



What are the parameters for application video recording?

Make sure that we can clearly see your face, hands and body. Record in a quiet environment. Ensure the image is not "backward" or mirror image. Check the recording to make sure there are no technical issues. Post as an "Unlisted" video to YouTube and send us the links. Create separate links for each piece/movement (2 links total). We encourage you to have your private teacher check the videos prior to submission.



What do I need to bring for the festival?

If accepted for a guest artist masterclass, please e-mail the following to us by Friday, July 23, 2021. Sheet music ( in .pdf form): - your own parts - piano score for your solo repertoire ( *important!)



How are chamber music parts and orchestra seating determined?

NOTE: IMF2021 will be a virtual/remote program. There will be no chamber music or orchestra repertoire for IMF2021.The below refers to our in-person program only (TBD for summer 2022). Chamber music assignments are made based on your audition videos, therefore it is crucial to send recordings which best represent your ability. Orchestra seating and sections (Violin I and II) are also based on these videos. You will be sent your chamber music parts and orchestra music shortly after you have confirmed your attendance and paid the deposit. NOTE: Each participant is expected to come to the festival with their printed parts in hand, practiced and ready for the first rehearsal.



What are the dates and times?

Sunday, August 1, 2021 to Tuesday, August 10, 2021. Hours will vary day to day depending on the program you enroll in and are subject to change. The daily schedule may consist of guest artist masterclasses, private lessons with Artist Teachers, and specialty classes. We will try our best to schedule private coachings to not conflict with masterclasses on the same instrument.



Where is the festival held?

NOTE: IMF2021 will take place remotely, primarly with the Zoom platform, either web-based or on the app. Daily activities will take place at the Borland-Maske Center for Theology, Worship, and Music. The Grand Finale Concert will be held at the Concordia University Center. IMF day-to-day events all take place on the secured gated community campus of Concordia University, Irvine (1530 Concordia West, Irvine, CA, USA 92612).



What is the tuition?

There are three different programs to choose from*: All auditing includes full access to observe all masterclasses and specialty classes for the duration of the 10-day festival. Program 1: Artist** - $300 - performance in one (1) masterclass - full masterclass and specialty class auditing access for the duration of the 10-day festival Program 2: Scholar** - $500 - performance in one (1) masterclass - full masterclass and specialty class auditing access for the duration of the 10-day festival - Education Package New for 2021, our customized Education Package provides college-bound participants an individualized assessment of your skills and potential for growth. A renowned expert in college guidance counseling offers a specialty session on how to prepare a strong, dynamic and focused portfolio for college entrance applications. At the conclusion of the festival you will receive a personalized recommendation of colleges/universities/conservatories which may best suit your needs, based on our assessment of your participation in the IMF program. If you elect to take private lessons during our program, we will consult with your teacher for their input. This package is designed to help you navigate the highly competitive field of college entrance applications and gain successful entrance to the school that is right for you. Program 3: Auditor - $150 - full masterclass and specialty class auditing access for the duration of the 10-day festival Note: at anytime during the Festival, Auditors can register at the full $150 amount. Note: Masterclass placement will be based on the audition application videos. Due to the competitive level of the guest artist masterclass auditions, we may alternately place you in a masterclass with one of our esteemed IMF faculty. *limit one program per participant **Participants enrolled in Artist or Scholar programs may enhance their festival experience by adding up to three (3) private lessons with a Teaching Artist for an additional fee. Tuition rate will be determined by each Teaching Artist.



Are there any discounts?

Yes, both merit scholarships and financial aid are available. These are based on your audition videos for merit, and supplemental materials for financial aid.



What instruments are offered?

Violin, viola, cello, double bass, piano, flute, oboe, clarinet, horn, trumpet, saxophone, and voice.



What age groups are accepted?

Ages 12 (7th grade in the fall) through college age.



Who are the instructors?

Faculty and Guest Artists presence is updated regularly on this website. There will be faculty for violin, viola, cello, double bass, winds/brass, percussion, piano, and voice.



What curriculum is offered?

Programs include one (1) guest artist masterclass. Participants may choose to add up to three (3) private lessons to their festival experience at an additional cost. Participants will also have full auditing access to guest artist masterclasses and specialty classes throughout the duration of the festival. Specialty courses vary from year to year, but include such diverse topics as music entrepreneurship, social media management and branding, new music, strength and mobility, Baroque vs. modern performance, instrument maintenance, and more. The College Guidance class is only included in the Education Package.



What about recreation and food?

NOTE: IMF2021 will be a virtual/remote program. The below refers to our in-person program only. Commuting students will receive lunch, and resident students will receive breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Snacks will occasionally be provided for all students, and each day will include supervised breaks.



My child is in middle school. Will he or she be supervised the entire day?

There will always be a member of the IMF staff monitoring/hosting the Zoom masterclass sessions. The one-to-one private lessons will consist of the IMF faculty member and the participant only.



My student/child is an advanced player. Is there challenging repertoire?

We ask that the student prepare repertoire which best suits their abilities. Repertoire for lessons has no range limitations. If the applicant is accepted, we will match them to the teacher of their choice per the teacher's availability. Our guest artists are of the highest international caliber, and repertoire at the advanced high school/university or conservatory level is considered appropriate for the masterclasses.



I need to drop off/pick up at a different time than indicated. Will adjustments be made for my student?

NOTE: IMF2021 will be a virtual/remote program. The below refers to our in-person program only (TBD for summer 2022). Students can be dropped off beginning at 8:00 am, and an adult will be present to receive them. Pick up will be firmly at the end of the daily schedule, although accommodations could be made on a case by case basis.



What kind of evening outings are planned?

NOTE: IMF2021 will be a virtual/remote program. The below refers to our in-person program only (TBD for summer 2022). IMF is waiting on regional summer performance dates to be released. It will be posted on the web site as soon as possible. Past summers have included outdoor symphony concerts and outdoor movies.



Is there a performance of the IMF chamber groups and orchestra planned?

NOTE: IMF2021 will be a virtual/remote program. The below refers to our in-person program only (TBD for summer 2022). Yes, all chamber groups - as well as students wishing to perform solo repertoire - will have a chance to do so during the festival. The Grand Finale Concert culminating our season will feature the IMF orchestra along with select additional repertoire.



How do I apply?

Applications will be available to fill out and submit online at www.irvinemusicfestival.org. Application material will include a video recording consisting of two works, and a letter of recommendation by your private teacher.



When can I apply?

We are now accepting applications!



Do I need to audition?

Yes. IMF will accept audition videos until May 15, 2021 for merit-based/financial aid award consideration and general admission.



Will I need a teacher recommendation?

Yes. Once you complete your application, the website will send an email to your private teacher (or your orchestra director, if you do not have a private teacher) asking for a recommendation. This is an important component of your application!



When will I need to pay the tuition?

Tuition is due in full by July 1, 2021. There are three different programs to choose from *: Program 1: Artist** - $300 - performance in one (1) masterclass - full masterclass and specialty class auditing access for the duration of the 10-day festival Program 2: Scholar** - $500 - performance in one (1) masterclass - full masterclass and specialty class auditing access for the duration of the 10-day festival - Education Package New for 2021, our customized Education Package provides college-bound participants an individualized assessment of your skills and potential for growth. A renowned expert in college guidance counseling offers a specialty session on how to prepare a strong, dynamic and focused portfolio for college entrance applications. At the conclusion of the festival you will receive a personalized recommendation of colleges/universities/conservatories which may best suit your needs, based on our assessment of your participation in the IMF program. If you elect to take private lessons during our program, we will consult with your teacher for their input. This package is designed to help you navigate the highly competitive field of college entrance applications and gain successful entrance to the school that is right for you. Program 3: Auditor - $150 - full masterclass and specialty class auditing access for the duration of the 10-day festival Note: at anytime during the Festival, Auditors can register at the full $150 amount. All auditing includes full access to observe all masterclasses and specialty classes for the duration of the 10-day festival. *limit one program per participant **Participants enrolled in Artist or Scholar programs may enhance their festival experience by adding up to three (3) private lessons with a Teaching Artist for an additional rate. Rate will be determined by each Teaching Artist.



I would like to speak to the director regarding my child. May I call him?

Yes. Iman Khosrowpour would be delighted to answer any questions you may have.
Please email him at director@IrvineMusicFestival.org to arrange a phone call appointment.



Can my child take private lessons during the festival?

Participants enrolled in Artist or Scholar programs may choose to add private lessons (between one (1) and three (3) lessons) with a Teaching Artist for an additional rate. Rates will vary by Teaching Artist. Participants may request specific Teaching Artists via application page. Participants enrolled in the Auditor program may also add private lessons with a faculty member. Private lessons with a guest artist are reserved for those enrolled in our Artist or Scholar programs.