About Us

C’est Bon Chamber Music Academy (pronounced “say-bone”) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization offering a summer chamber music program. Established in 2009 by prominent music educators from the San Francisco Bay Area, the academy features experienced local faculty and guest artists from international festivals, providing students with exceptional mentorship and opportunities for musical growth.

At C’est Bon, we believe that “C’est Bon” – meaning “it’s good” in French – reflects music’s power to bring joy, connection, and nourishment. Through small ensembles, students develop essential skills like listening, collaboration, and communication, fostering both musicality and lasting friendships.

  • Phoebe A.

    I had a wonderful experience at C’est Bon. Learning skills like collaborating on stylistic choices and actively playing together amongst other talented musicians my age was really fun. Even now in college, I rely on skills learned in my time at C’est Bon while I continue playing with others both in terms of chamber music as well as in improvisation groups.

  • Jasper L.

    I attended C’est Bon Chamber Music Academy’s summer camps in 2019 and 2021 and remember them as if they were yesterday. Through the compact and effective curriculum, I not only had a chance to interact and learn with fellow students, I was able to learn with most if not all teachers. I received insightful individualized feedback which not only helped me improve technically but grow musically as well.

  • Calvin K.

    I highly recommend attending this special music academy because it is an intense yet motivating atmosphere for any aspiring musician to experience the fun of music through a chamber music setting. Not only did I improve upon my chamber music skills such as communication, listening to others, and how to work as a group, I also improved my soloistic skills with the few private lessons I got throughout the week.

  • Emily H.

    The faculty are incredibly kind, supportive, and dedicated to helping their students succeed. What makes this program unique are the opportunities to collaborate with fellow student musicians and work with professional musicians from around the world.

  • David C.

    My fondest memory of C'est Bon was getting to know my group better just from practicing the piece with them. With the support of the instructors, my group members and I would bond over the intricacies and hardships of the piece while also learning how to communicate through words, body language, and eye contact using chamber music as our medium.

  • Phyllis (Parent)

    My daughters have attened C’est Bon summer camps for several years. They focus on cultivating a well-rounded music program where students are challenged, inspired, and having a great time while working with peers. Not only my kids are growing in many muscial aspects but I am growing as well. Thank you, C’est Bon!