2026 Academy
The Piano and Voice Duo classes are designed for singers and piano accompanists who wish to refine the art of recital performance and deepen their interpretation of French mélodie, German Lied, and English art song.
The program spans three weeks, each led by a different pair of distinguished instructors and centered on a unique theme. Participants may choose to register for one, two, or all three weeks, depending on their availability and goals. However, piano accompanists are strongly encouraged to attend all three weeks in order to fully benefit from the program’s depth and variety.
Instruction includes duo master classes as well as private lessons. Participants will have the opportunity to perform for the instructors daily and to take part in a public concert at the end of each week. Repertoire will be determined individually with each duo shortly after registration is confirmed.
This program offers an exceptional opportunity to deepen the artistic collaboration between singer and pianist, refine interpretation of vocal repertoire, and explore diverse stylistic and expressive approaches.
Pre-formed duos are also welcome. In such cases, please indicate your partner’s name at the time of registration.
June 7–13
Liz Upchurch (piano) & Wendy Nielsen (voice)
The Art of the Recital: Art Song and the Vocal RepertoireJune 14–20
Romain Pollet (piano) & Benjamin Butterfield (voice)
French Mélodie and English Art Song, with a Focus on Theatrical PerformanceJune 21–27
Francis Perron (piano) & Christian Immler (voice)
French Mélodie and German Lied
Francis Perron (piano)
Francis Perron’s extensive experience as a chamber musician, accompanist, and vocal coach has made him a highly sought-after collaborator. This has led to close partnerships with the Canadian Opera Company, Opéra de Montréal, Opéra de Québec, Wien Kammeroper, ARD Musik Wettbewerb, the Salzburg Summer Academy, the Royaumont Festival, the Nouvel Ensemble Moderne, and the Société de Musique Contemporaine du Québec. He has appeared in recital with renowned artists such as Christian Immler, François Le Roux, Nathalie Paulin, and Julie Boulianne, and has participated in the creation of more than twenty contemporary operas in Quebec and abroad.Christian Immler (voice)
From the Tölzer Knabenchor as a boy alto soloist to singing at major concert halls, festivals and opera houses, German bass-baritone Christian Immler has spent many years making and recording music of the highest quality. He studied with Rudolf Piernay in London and won the International Nadia et Lili Boulanger Competition in Paris, launching his career. In concert, he has immersed himself in the works of Handel, Haydn, Mozart, Mendelssohn, Mahler and, particularly, Bach, appearing all over the world.
In addition to the what is mentioned above, the workshops also include:
- Chamber music coachings
- Opportunities to participate in one or more student concerts
- Networking activities with fellow musicians and faculty members
- Accommodation in double occupancy and three meals per day
- Practice studios equipped with pianos (available from 7AM to 12AM)
- Housekeeping, laundry (for a fee), parking, and free WiFi
- Free tickets for concerts at Salle Gilles-Lefebvre (subject to availability)
- Opportunity to discover the beautiful landscapes of Parc national du Mont-Orford, the majestic Lake Memphremagog, and the tourist activities of the city of Magog
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