Masterclass Al-Andalus is an intense, ten-day international masterclass series designed for violinists embarking upon careers as performing artists.
The Masterclass Al-Andalus dates are July 5-15, 2025.
Led by eminent American violinists and pedagogues David Russell, Irina Muresanu and Emilía Ferriz, Masterclass Al-Andalus is a unique musical and cultural experience that offers powerful perspectives on the art of violin performance. Masterclass activities also explore the influences of Medieval Spain (Al-Andalus) on modern music making, while offering participants an immersion experience into the incredibly rich and ancient Andalusian culture.
All Masterclass Al-Andalus participants will be housed at the beautiful Carmen de la Victoria (across from the Alhambra), and will receive three meals per day in addition to the masterclasses, concerts and cultural immersion activities.
There is an optional off-campus tuition for local residents. The Masterclass is also open to teacher/auditors interested in observing the classes.
The beautiful city of Granada, Spain is our home. Nestled beneath the towering Sierra Nevada mountains of Andalusia, Granada’s skyline is dominated by the historic Alhambra, the focal point of the region’s history during the time of Al-Andalus.
The 800-year period of Al-Andalus (711-1492) saw the creation of an unprecedented culture, which provides many lessons that can be pertinent to contemporary society. Designated as “People of the Book” (the Abrahamic religions), Christians, Jews and Muslims contributed equally to the unique culture, music, art, cuisine, and way of life of the people of Al-Andalus. They also linked their knowledge to the ancient Greek culture of the past, and the Visigothic and Roman cultures that preceded Al-Andalus in the region, creating the foundation for a time of great learning and development for civilization.
Later, the Romany (Gypsy) people added to the cultural melting-pot, refining the elements of Flamenco and revealing the mysterious spiritual experience called “duende”, as they expressed life through music, dance, and rhythm. Masterclass Al-Andalus immerses participants in the cultural remnants of that time, and looks back on the nearly forgotten secrets they hold. For musical performers, this deep experience can be revolutionary, sometimes creating a new sense of purpose and meaning in our life as performers. If we are lucky, perhaps “el duende” will follow us in our post-masterclass performances.
The program is designed to equip each participant with unique insights into musical performance. Five masterclasses, three concerts, and several other special educational and cultural events will be offered in multiple venues. The festival and masterclass will culminate in a gala performance at the Masterclass’ home, the magnificent Carmen de la Victoria in Granada (photo at left). That concert will feature Spanish-themed works, inspired by the time of Al-Andalus.
Masterclass Al-Andalus would like to express deep gratitude to The University of Granada and the Carmen de la Victoria for providing Masterclass Al-Andalus such an awe-inspiring home.