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This year, our 20th anniversary, has been remarkable. Alongside our annual and extended masterclasses in Venice and Castiglione, we expanded our horizons to Korea and hosted a magnificent celebratory concert at the opera house in Budapest. For those who attended, I think you’ll agree it was a truly unforgettable occasion.
Looking ahead, we are excited for what the future holds. We aim to establish Budapest as an annual showcase for our alumni, reinstate our Beijing masterclasses in November, and introduce a dedicated alumni course in Castiglione. Beyond that, we are planning a return to Korea and the launch of various new satellite projects, which we will share more about as they take shape. As a Swiss foundation, we are also eager to strengthen our presence in Switzerland—a fitting focus as we look forward to celebrating our 25th anniversary there!
Supporting our alumni remains at the heart of our mission. Many of our generous supporters already contribute by hosting our artists as they travel the world for rehearsals and performances. To you, we extend our heartfelt gratitude—your kindness provides more than just a place to stay; it creates a sense of home, complete with warm hospitality and, often, a beloved family dog. For artists living a life on the road, there is nothing more special than returning to a real home.
None of this would have been possible without your steadfast support. I would like to extend a special thank you to our board, particularly Renata Kalas and Alexander Dembitz, for their unwavering commitment in Budapest. And, of course, our heartfelt gratitude goes to our exceptional Chair, Madeleine, who is the heart and soul of the Accademia. We are deeply thankful to each and every one of you for your dedication, which continues to keep the Accademia flourishing. As Valerie Solti often reminded me, “Maestro would be smiling”.
Wishing each and everyone a very happy festive season, and looking forward to seeing you in 2025!
-Candice Wood
Executive Director