Summer String Retreat & Vacation June 23 - July 7, 2025

Summer String Retreat & Vacation

June 23 - July 7, 2025, in Ripatransone, Italy

Inviting Violinists, Violists, Cellists of All Levels and Guests

Join us in the charming town of Ripatransone, Italy, for a two-week summer music retreat dedicated to the art of Bel Canto—the tradition of beautiful music-making. Led by Maestro Raffaele Livio Ponti, this program offers a rich and immersive experience for string players and quartets of all ages and all levels. Live like an Italian while in beautiful Marche. Enjoy and experience Italian music, cuisine, art, and culture while making new friends all just moments away from the beautiful beaches of Grottamare. 

Bring a guest, partner, or spouse.  

Festival Highlights

Internationally Renowned Faculty

• Mo. Raffaele Livio Ponti: Artistic Director & Festival Director www.rponti.com

• Isabelle Aubin: Pianist and coach extraordinaire.

• Ambra Vespasiani: Celebrated mezzo-soprano and coach.

• Ettore Nova: Esteemed baritone and coach.

• Unique Curriculum which includes, rehearsals and performances, Chamber

Music, Survival Italian Language Classes, Culinary Classes, and plenty of free

time to enjoy the Italian lifestyle in Ripatransone and the beautiful beaches in Grottamare.

• A focus on Italian repertoire, from string quartets to chamber music to orchestra.

• Masterclasses and workshops in Bel Canto technique for all participants.

• Historic Performances: Concerts and recitals will take place in the stunning

Mercantini Theatre, a historic gem in the heart of Ripatransone.

• Collaborative Environment opportunity to perform alongside fellow musicians and friends in a supportive and inspiring setting.

• Daily rehearsals and coaching with personalized sessions in expressive artistry.

The Art of Bel Canto in Orchestral Playing

Bel Canto — meaning “beautiful singing” — is a style of music-making that emphasizes tone, phrasing, and emotional expression. While it is most closely associated with vocal performance, Bel Canto principles are just as powerful for string playing offering a framework for shaping musical phrases with beauty and emotional depth. Bel Canto focuses on creating a continuous,

seamless flow of music—much like a singer’s legato phrasing. Embracing Bel Canto principles will bring out the nuances of the music, crafting each musical phrase with care, highlighting its emotional contours, and balancing dynamics for expressive depth. 

Who Should Apply

String Players of ALL LEVELS eager to explore the depth of the rich Italian musical tradition in Italy with Italian Musicians. There are two orchestras that you may audition for. Bel Canto Society Orchestra: Suited for players who play in community orchestras, advanced music students, church musicians, retired musicians, and music teachers. Orchestra Bel Canto: Suited for the advanced music students, graduate students, advanced players, and professionals. 

Guests Are Welcome

Are you passionate about music but not a performer? Join us as and experience the magic of the Orchestra Bel Canto Festival while exploring the beauty of living in Ripatransone.  Attend all open rehearsals, masterclasses, performances, and special events. Gain insight into the artistry of Bel Canto and the behind-the-scenes magic of music-making. A unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Italian culture while enjoying the music. Enjoy living in Ripatransone, Italy surrounded by the beautiful beaches in Grottamare.

Location

Nestled in the hills of Marche, Ripatransone offers breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and a warm, vibrant community. The historic Mercantini Theatre provides the perfect setting for unforgettable performances.

Details

• Dates: June 23 - July 7, 2025

• Duration: Two weeks

• Applications Open: March 1, 2025

• Tuition: $1,000.00 USD for participants.

$250.00 USD for Guests.

*All travel, lodging, and food expenses are the

responsibility of the participants and guests.

We recommend staying at the Istituto Suore Teresiane, Casa Per Ferie, but participants and supporters may make other arrangements elsewhere.

Why Choose Us?

This is more than a music festival—it’s a transformative journey into the heart of Italian music, language, cuisine, art, culture, and the soul of expressive artistry. Whether you’re a seasoned musician, an emerging artist, or a music lover, you’ll leave with a deeper connection to the Italian culture and its music.

Apply Now!

Visit https://orchestrabelcanto.org to learn more and submit your application. Spaces are limited—reserve your spot today!

For More Information Contact:

E-Mail: orchestrabelcanto13@gmail.com 

Tel: +1 239 919 4755 (IT/USA)

How To Apply / Instructions

Submit the completed form and all materials by May 16, 2025 (5:00 PM EST to https://orchestrabelcanto.org (Incomplete applications will not be considered)

Application & Deposit

There is NO application fee to apply. Once accepted, a $250.00 USD deposit is required within 7 days after the date of acceptance to hold your spot in the festival.

Tuition Balance

All Musician Participants

The full tuition balance of $750.00 USD is DUE May 30, 2025. After this date, you

will forfeit your place in the festival and your deposit.

All Guests

The full tuition balance of $250.00 USD is DUE May 30, 2025. After this date, you

will forfeit your place in the festival and your deposit.

Accommodations

For lodging, we recommend arranging your stay at Istituto Suore Teresiane, Casa Per Ferie. You can learn more and book accommodations at their website:

www.suoreteresiane.it

Address: Piazzale Adolfo Cellini, 5

63065 Ripatransone (AP)

Tel: +39 0735 9290 / +39 334 7196229

Email: teresiane.ripa@yahoo.com

Learn more about Ripatransone, the beautiful town hosting the festival at:

https://www.visitripatransone.it/en/

Note: All Travel, Lodging, and Food Expenses are the responsibility of the

participants and guests.

For lodging, we recommend staying at the Istituto Suore Teresiane, Casa Per Ferie. You can learn more and book accommodations at their website www.suoreteresiane.it

Address

Piazzale Adolfo Cellini, 5

63065 Ripatransone (AP)

Tel: +39 0735 9290 / +39 334 7196229

Email: teresiane.ripa@yahoo.com 

Ripatransone

Learn more about the beautiful town hosting the festival at: https://www.visitripatransone.it/en/