The Masterclass

Masterclass Al-Andalus for violinists offers an extraordinary opportunity to study with three internationally renowned violinists and pedagogues who represent living bridges to the great pedagogues of the past, representing the legacies of Ivan Galamian, Josef Gingold, and the Franco-Belgian school (with major influences from Ysaÿe).

Violinists and pedagogues David Russell, Irina Muresanu, and Emilía Ferriz will conduct the classes. The masterclasses are held jointly, so that all participants will have contact with each member of the violin faculty during each class, offering the participant three different perspectives.

Themes for the Masterclasses: 

  • Solo Bach, Ysaÿe Sonatas, or any other work for unaccompanied violin

  • Concerti - One movement from a concerto of any period

  • “From the Soil of Al-Andalus” - Spanish, Arabic, and/or Jewish-themed repertoire for violin, i.e. Sarasate, Falla, Granados, Kreisler, Bloch

  • “In the Old Style” - Small stylistic character pieces, i.e. Kreisler, Amy Beach, Massenet, Ponce, Heifetz, Chopin-Milstein

  • “In the Gypsy Style” - Any concert work with a gypsy element

All repertoire must be performance ready upon arrival in Spain, ready to rehearse with our collaborative pianists. 

Select students will perform in the high-profile Gala concert at the conclusion of the masterclass. Repertoire for that concert will be chosen from the Spanish repertoire.

Activities focused on cultural immersion and understanding of the history of the Al-Andalus period will also be offered. 

Meet the Faculty

Learn more about David Russell, Irina Muresanu, and Emilía Ferriz.

Past Participants

Since the start of Masterclass Al-Andalus in 2018, students from across the globe have made it the elite musical program it is today. Learn more about these students and their masterclass experiences.

Are you ready to join us at Masterclass Al-Andalus?