What is the International Keyboard Institute and Festival?

The International Keyboard Institute and Festival is a summer piano festival that offers a week of concerts and masterclasses, and is open to participant students as well as the public. Since 1999, the Festival has attracted students from around the world who have the opportunity to attend the Festival to study with international Faculty and Artists, participate in masterclasses, and attend nightly concerts given by some of the world’s best-known pianists. Students receive lessons and can observe other lessons throughout the day.

What are the dates of the 2024 Festival and where will it take place?

The dates are July 8 - 12, 2024. Activities will take place at Kaufman Music Center, Merkin Hall, and Klavierhaus in New York City, with performances in Merkin Hall at Kaufman Music Center (129 W. 67 St.).

How do I apply to IKIF?

Please submit your information with a 30-minute audition recording, with instructions for links to audio or video files (free choice of repertoire).

How much is Tuition for IKIF?

IKIF is Scholarship only. Student admission for participants (those who play in class) is limited.

If I am a participant in the Festival, do I also need to purchase concert tickets?

No. As long as you are on scholarship, your scholarship allows you access to all events.

Does IKIF offer housing?

No.

Is there a meal plan?

There is no meal plan. There are many restaurant options in the areas surrounding Klavierhaus and Merkin Hall.

How do I contact IKIF?

Preferably by email: info@ikif.org

What can I do after I arrive in NYC?

IKIF does not provide practice facilities. We will contact you about your masterclass schedule before Monday, July 8. The first IKIF 2024 event will be the concert of Founder/Director Jerome Rose on Monday, July 8 at 8:00pm at Merkin Hall at Kaufman Music Center (129 W. 67 St.). Please go to the box office at Merkin to receive your ticket just before this concert on July 8.

When can I start practicing?

IKIF does not offer practice facilities.

Can I warm up or practice at Klavierhaus before July 8 or after July 12?

No.

Where can I practice?

IKIF does not offer practice facilities. You must find your own studio.

Are master classes assigned?

Yes. We will contact you about your lesson schedule.

Can I attend the lessons of other participants?

Yes. You are encouraged to do this.

Can I arrange to have private lessons?

Please write to us if you have questions about additional private lessons.

How many lessons can I expect per week?

TBD.

Will I have an opportunity to perform?

Masterclasses are open to the public and other Festival participants who may listen in on classes. There are no formal recitals arranged for participants.

Who should be considered as a scholarship participant?

Only those pianists ready to participate in a public masterclass.

What repertoire should I prepare for masterclasses?

Repertoire you have prepared that is memorized and ready to play in a public masterclass.

What happens at the masterclasses?

Classes are three hours long. Although each participant will have an hour long lesson, other students are encouraged to sit in and listen to all the lessons. All classes are open to any participant or member of the public who wishes to attend.

Will there be a General Meeting at the start of the Festival?

No. We will also answer any questions you may have via email.

Can participants walk into any Masterclass or 8:00pm events?

Yes. But, you must obtain a ticket from the box office in order to be counted as an audience member upon entry to evening events in Merkin.

Can my parent or guardian attend masterclasses or evening events without a ticket?

No. If your parent or guardian will be with you for all or part of the Festival, they must obtain tickets to attend the evening events at Merkin Hall. They do not need tickets for the masterclasses at Klavierhaus.

Can I attend the Festival alone if I am under the age of 18.

No. You must attend the Festival with a parent or guardian if you are under the age of 18.

Is there a concert subscription or pass available to buy at a discount for those not attending the Festival as participants, auditors, or parents/guardians?

No.

Are there Student Discounts available?

Yes, for tickets at Merkin with ID the day of the concert, if you are not already a participant.

How do I get to Klavierhaus by public transportation?

We can email you information about this.

How do I get to Merkin Hall at Kaufman Music Center by public transportation?

The address of Merkin Hall at Kaufman Music Center is 129 West 67th Street. The M66 bus goes across town and makes a stop near Merkin Hall. The M104 bus goes up and down Broadway and stops near 67th Street. The No. 1 subway stops at 66th Street along Broadway.

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