Frequently Asked Questions
Students must be currently working with a private teacher and have had at least 2 years of private lessons to apply.
Our students range from 9–18 years old. We try our best to group similar age/level students in the same chamber group to ensure the best possible experience.
What are the age and technique requirements?
C’est Bon Academy is an eight-day summer music camp. (Click here for schedule sample)
Students participate in daily coaching and rehearsals with a pre-assigned small ensemble. Students will work together to learn and polish a pre-selected piece to present at the concert on the last day of camp. Students will also receive one on one lesson with our faculty to work on technique/standard repertoire.
Our group classes are designed for our students to have exposure to musicianship, community engagement, and improvisation. We aim to cultivate life-long love of music and inspire students to see the possibilities of combining music with other forms of expression.
What is your program like?
How many students are in each ensemble?
What instruments qualify?
Typical ensemble will consist of 3–5 students, depending on level and experience. We currently accept piano, violin, viola, cello, flute, clarinet, oboe, bassoon and French horn.
When students are placed in consistent skill and age level in a small group, it is easier to make friends/meet people, and each person’s insights are heard. Students also get more direct interaction with teachers, so they have opportunities to work on their problem solving, critical thinking and collaborative skills.
What’s the benefit of playing in a small group?
A typical ensemble consists of 3–5 students. Large group classes consist of 8–12 students. We deliberately keep class sizes small so we can focus on the individual needs of each student.
What’s the student/teacher ratio?
We’ve received many inquiries about accommodations for out-of-town students and are happy to welcome families traveling to join us!
For students 15 and younger, we encourage a parent or guardian to travel with them and arrange local accommodations. Students 16 and older are welcome to email us to inquire about possible host family accommodations. Please note that host family arrangements are subject to availability and are not guaranteed.
What if I'm from out of town?
No, our faculty will help students learn the techniques of chamber music playing. Many of our intermediate and advanced students are returning students with more experience who serve as great role models for younger students.
Do I have to have prior experience in chamber music?
Our amazing faculty members are passionate about nurturing and inspiring young musicians. Many are leading educators and performers from the San Francisco Symphony and the San Francisco Conservatory of Music, bringing their artistry, experience, and dedication to every lesson and rehearsal. We also welcome distinguished guest artists—renowned for their performances and teaching—who share their expertise through engaging masterclasses and collaborative performances that make the C’est Bon experience truly special.
Who are our teachers?
We ask each applicant to submit a recording that best represents their current level of playing. This is necessary to allow us to place the student in the age-/skill-appropriate chamber group. If we are unable to match the student with an appropriate group, he/she will be placed on our wait list.
Are auditions required?
Yes! Absolutely!
Can I apply as a pre-formed ensemble?
Audition results are sent to applicants by email. All applicants will be notified of their status by late March. Invited applicants are typically given one week to accept or decline an invitation for admission.
When will I know if I have been accepted?