Observer - Teacher’s Program 2019

This year we are excited to announce our new Observer Programme, a package deal aimed at teachers but open as well to any others who wish to enjoy the festival without participating. This unique opportunity provides participants with the chance not only to enjoy a stunning concert series, but also to observe teaching from renowned pedagogues and to engage with students, opening the discussion about what sort of teaching resonates with them.

Teachers interested in the programme are encouraged to come to Dublin to enjoy the festival at their own pace. With a variety of events to choose from every day, attendees can pick and choose their own schedule, perhaps sampling a masterclass from each faculty member or getting the full dose of one expert, including two public masterclasses, a public concert, and a seminar. Over the course of the festival we present over 20 hours of public masterclasses, in which teachers can get a taste of teaching styles from all over the world and see for themselves what works for different kinds of students. With 8 concerts scheduled during the week, observers can then hear these renowned pedagogues back up their teaching with their playing, presenting varied programmes in beautiful locations such as the sculpture hall of the Hugh Lane Gallery. This unique opportunity also provides observers with the chance to engage with students of the highest caliber, and opens the discussion about what sort of teaching resonates with them. We offer both a meal deal and a ticket to the Festival Excursion for observers, with which they can join students and faculty over meals and a day-long trip around the Irish countryside to enjoy great food, engaging conversation, and a peek into the everyday lives of our esteemed faculty.

If the packed schedule is overwhelming and some time away from the keyboard is in order don’t fret, there are loads of non-piano things to do in Dublin and its surrounding areas! From hiking and mountain biking in the Wicklow Mountains or exploring Phoenix Park to just relaxing at a classic Irish pub or one of the city’s many art galleries, Dublin has something for everyone. See our Plan Your Visit tab for a few ideas!

For just €595 observers will receive a festival pass, gaining them entry into all concerts, seminars & masterclasses, as well as a meal ticket, allowing them to share meals with both the students and the faculty of the Summer Academy. Accommodation is not included, but we’ve done the dirty work for you and listed our favourite hotels and B&Bs listed here, available at reduced rates for festival-goers. The official festival kickoff is the evening of July 21st, and the closing reception the 30th, but observers are welcome to book accommodation for as long as they wish. A build-your-own schedule pack will be available soon, so gather your piano-loving friends and start planning a music-filled vacation!

It is indeed a pleasure to be involved with the Dublin International Piano Festival & Summer Academy. The festival is a much welcomed addition to the cultural landscape of Dublin City, and will further enhance the reputation of our capital city as a hub of piano and classical music excellence.

- John O' Conor Honorary Patron

Supported by: