FAQs
C'est Bon Frequently Asked Questions
What are the age and technique requirements?
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 is your program like?
C’est Bon Academy is a week-long 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 a 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, music technology, 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.
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, double bass, flute, clarinet, oboe, bassoon and French horn.
What’s the benefit of playing in a small group?
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 student/teacher ratio?
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.
Do I have to have prior experience in chamber music?
No, our faculty and camp counselors 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.
Who are our teachers?
Our amazing faculty members are selected for their expertise in mentoring and guiding young musicians. They are leading music teachers in the Bay Area as well as members of San Francisco Symphony, the Tian Jin Juilliard School, and San Francisco Conservatory.
Are auditions required?
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.
Can I apply as a pre-formed ensemble?
Yes! Absolutely!
When will I know if I have been accepted?
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.