Third European Piano Masterclass and Study Tour 2026

Overview

The Third European Piano Masterclass and Study Tour 2026 combines intensive piano instruction with a 14-day musical and cultural journey through Germany and Central Europe. The programme begins in Düsseldorf and continues to important music and cultural destinations in the Netherlands, Göttingen, Leipzig, Berlin, Prague, Krumau, Krems and Vienna.

The format is designed for young pianists, music students, advanced pupils and accompanying participants who want to experience teaching, concert culture and European music history within one compact study-tour programme.

Artistic Team

Prof. Georg Friedrich Schenck leads an important part of the artistic work as an experienced pianist and university professor. His teaching connects technical clarity, musical structure and interpretative depth.

Prof. Susanne Achilles contributes her long-standing pianistic and pedagogical experience to the masterclass. Her teaching focuses on sound culture, musical shaping and a clear artistic statement.

Prof. Yamei Yu expands the programme with a chamber-music perspective and international stage experience. Her work strengthens the understanding of musical dialogue, phrasing and ensemble thinking.

Prof. Michael Faust adds the perspective of an internationally active musician and teacher. His contribution opens further views on interpretation, breath, sound and musical communication.

Guido Gorny accompanies the programme organisationally and musically. His involvement supports the link between teaching, travel logistics and personal guidance for the participants.

Educational Structure

• Three teaching sessions within the masterclass.
• Artistic work on repertoire, sound, technique and interpretation.
• Opportunities for exchange with professors and other participants.
• A combination of lessons, concerts, city visits and music-historical sites.
• Professional travel guidance throughout the programme.

Target Group

The programme is suitable for young pianists, music students, advanced pupils, applicants preparing for music universities and accompanying participants with an interest in music, culture and European history.

14-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Düsseldorf, welcome session, group introduction and overview of the programme.

Day 2: Düsseldorf. City visit, musical orientation along the Rhine and the beginning of the cultural programme.

Day 3: Masterclass teaching and musical exchange in Düsseldorf.

Day 4: Excursion to the Netherlands with impressions of landscape, culture and European neighbourhood.

Day 5: Travel to Göttingen, visit to the historic university city and introduction to its cultural significance.

Day 6: Leipzig. Encounter with one of Europe's major music cities, including references to Bach, Mendelssohn and German musical tradition.

Day 7: Berlin. City visit, cultural programme and overview of key places in German history.

Day 8: Berlin. Continuation of the cultural programme and time for musical impressions.

Day 9: Prague. Travel to the Czech Republic, visit to the old town and encounter with the city's music and cultural history.

Day 10: Krumau. Stay in the historic centre and insight into the cultural landscape of Bohemia.

Day 11: Wachau and Krems. Journey along the Danube with scenic and cultural-historical stops.

Day 12: Vienna. Arrival in one of Europe's great musical capitals, city visit and musical focus.

Day 13: Vienna. Further cultural programme, with concert and music references depending on the final schedule.

Day 14: Closing, reflection on the lessons and journey, individual departure or onward travel.

Notes and Included Elements

• Dates: 24 July to 6 August 2026.
• Duration: 14 days.
• Teaching: three masterclass sessions.
• Accommodation: hotels at 4-star level or above.
• Travel: professional guidance and organised programme structure.
• Visits: interior visits and cultural programme points according to the travel plan.
• Not included: international flights, visas and personal expenses.
• Meals: breakfast according to hotel standard; further meals according to the programme or individually.
• Registration, final course fees and detailed terms will be announced separately.