AT A PRACTICE MARATHON RETREAT, MUSICIANS ACQUIRE NEW SKILLS for managing music practice intelligently, efficiently and joyfully. In a distraction-free and beautiful natural environment "far from the madding crowd," each participant is offered a unique, twenty-first century methodology for improving instrumental skill, interpretative skill and performance consistency. There is a library of videos, audios and books on music practicing and performing as well as fitness equipment; gourmet food; and abundant space and time in which to process and absorb new awarenesses. The environment is non-competitive and stimulates collegial interaction. Originally the retreats were only for string players, but the program has expanded to include woodwinds, brass, piano and harp. Click here if you play one of these instruments.

Each participant receives three one-hour lessons each week from Burton Kaplan, String Faculty, Manhattan School of Music. If you are a woodwind or brass player, or a pianist or harpist, click here.

Daily workshop seminars feature unique ways to increase your technical and artistic command; topics are custom tailored to the needs of each individual.

Mock auditions and solo performances are arranged whenever you need an audience.

Six hours of practice six days a week is the goal of each marathoner. You will learn to manage your work to avoid injury.

Conversations with colleagues
will stimulate your imagination and provide invaluable feedback.

Special Chamber Music Marathons
can be arranged for one or two groups at a time. These intensive sessions include unique exercises for improving skills of communication and negotiation during rehearsals and a method of interpreting a score. Only already-formed groups are eligible to apply.