Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about the Academy and your stay in Ascona.
Accomodation
Are meals included?
No, but the Collegio Papio has a cantina, where participants can eat and drink for Fr. 15-20. This will be a nice oppurunity for participants to gather before the Evensongs.
Can you recommend accomodation?
Yes. Below you’ll find a list of accommodations located near the rehearsal and concert venues.
List of hostels
List of hotels
List of group accommodations
Where do the rehearsals and concerts take place?
Much of the activity takes place around the Collegio Papio in Ascona, including the daily evensongs. Rehearsals and workshops are held at various locations in Ascona (Church of St. Peter and Paul, Protestant Church, Teatro Materno, Teatro Gatto, etc.). The final concert takes place at the Church of San Francesco in Locarno.
Participation
Is the academy suitable for children's and youth choirs?
The daily rehearsal and performance of new repertoire is rather demanding for children. Therefore, the academy is less suitable for children's choirs, but well suited for ambitious youth choirs.
How many participants will there be?
A total of eight choirs will take part in the academy. The goal is to recruit five existing choirs and form three ad-hoc choirs.
Is everyone participating at the final concert?
Due to the space restrictions, Dvořák Stabat will only be sung by a selection of the choirs. However, the ones who are not singing in this concert are performing at in streets of Ascona during the day.
Is there a reduced course fee for the shortened week?
No, the course fee remains the same and primarily covers the administrative costs of coordinating participants.
Which ad-hoc choir should I register for?
Consider whether you could learn the sample pieces during a two-hour choir rehearsal with only minimal individual preparation. If so, then this is the right choir for you.
My choir is registering for the academy. Do I need to register as a singer too?
No. Your choir will communicate directly with you.
Are there limited places?
Yes, there are limited spots for choirs and singers. The participation is confirmed after a short review process.
Various
Who organises the Ascona Choral Academy?
The Ascona Choral Academy is an initiative by Christoph Müller, the new Artistic Director of the Settimane Musicali Ascona, and Thomas Märki. It is organised as part of the festival in close collaboration with the Tenebrae Choir from London. Julia Mäder is responsible for the project management of the academy.