Founded in 1955, the Summer Academy for Organists in the beautiful city of Haarlem quickly became a mecca for leading organists and students from all over the world. At the very centre of the Summer Academy is one of the most famous organs in the world: the eighteenth-century instrument by Christian Müller in the Bavokerk, in the historic city's main square. Around the corner, in the Philharmonie concert hall, is a fully restored three-manual Cavaillé-Coll organ. Many other important historical organs in the city are used by the teachers and students of the Summer Academy.
Opening weekend
The 2012 International Haarlem Organ Festival opens on Saturday 14 July with an adventurous programme in many of the city's churches. As an overture to the International Improvisation Competition, improvisation will play a key role. The day will climax in the festive opening concert in the Bavokerk.
The 45th Summer Academy for Organists: meeting and discussion
The 2012 Academy will provide opportunity for meeting and discussion between teachers and students. Each of the two 11-day Bach courses will be directed by two specialists, and several of the listed works will be discussed by both. During the two 11-day courses on French and German romantic repertoire there will be occasional sessions with both teachers.
The Summer Academy is open to undergraduates on a professional performers' course and to postgraduates active as performing musicians. It will take place from Monday 16 July to Saturday 28 July 2012. The weekend 21-22 July will feature an attractive programme of lecture-recitals on historical organs in the region, devoted to the theme From Sweelinck to Bach.
As an overture to the International Improvisation Competition, improvisation will play a key role. The day will climax in the festive opening concert in the Bavokerk; the programme includes the world premiere of the Fukushima Requiem by Zsigmond Szathmáry.
Language
Tuition will be in English. It is therefore absolutely essential that all students have a good understanding of this language.
NL: De voertaal van de Academie is Engels. Alle studenten dienen deze taal goed te verstaan.
D: Die Unterrichtssprache der Akademie ist die Englische Sprache. Alle Studenten sollen gut Englisch verstehen.
F: La langue véhiculaire de l'Académie étant l'anglais, toutes les étudiants doivent avoir une connaissance passive de cette langue.
Further information
During the Summer Academy a wide range of practise instruments will be available in Haarlem and the vicinity. A limited number of selected academy students will have the opportunity to play during a public recital in the Bavokerk on Friday 27 July.
All academy students will receive a certificate testifying to their attendance at the Academy.
The festival organisation reserves the right to change the academy programme should unavoidable circumstances arise; Academy students will be informed of any necessary changes.
Where to stay
Applicants can request help in arranging accommodation on the application form (available on this site from 1 January 2012). Simple B&B lodgings are available in private homes, mainly in the suburbs of Haarlem (within app. 30 minutes travel from the centre of the festival). B&B costs €29 per night. The number of B&B addresses is limited and they will be assigned on a ‘first-come, first-served’ basis. The prompt submission of accommodation requests is therefore essential. When accommodated in a private home, sensitivity to the situation and wishes of the host will be greatly appreciated.
