YS Curtis Summer Academy
2026 Young Scholars @Curtis – The Launch of a New Music Partnership!
Fifteen Young Scholars from the U.S., England, Spain, and China came together in Philadelphia this August for two unforgettable weeks at the Curtis Institute of Music. Living in the student residence, studying with Curtis faculty, and immersing themselves in the life of the school, the Scholars had the opportunity to experience what it truly means to be part of the Curtis community.
Each day offered something new. Mornings began with vocal studies from faculty members Jinhyun Park and Reese Revak were designed to deepen the connection between music and the voice—exploring breath, expression, and the ways in which a pianist can bring a more vocal quality to their playing.
Daily masterclasses with Curtis piano professors Amy Yang, Anna Polonsky, and Michelle Cann encouraged the young pianists to discover new approaches to technique, greater freedom of interpretation, and a deeper understanding of their own unique musical voices.
Composition workshops led by Alistair Coleman opened another creative door.
Exploring everything from the history of musical notation to the many ways an original composition can take shape, the Scholars were encouraged to think about music from the perspective of a composer—an entirely new experience for some of them.
Throughout the two weeks, the Curtis philosophy of the artist as citizen was woven into the experience, encouraging the Scholars to think not only about who they are as musicians, but also about the role they can play through music in the world around them.
As a proud Curtis graduate himself, Lang Lang is especially grateful to the Curtis Institute of Music for welcoming our Young Scholars and joining us in this first-ever collaboration. It was an inspiring beginning to a new musical partnership—and we look forward to many more years of learning, creativity, and music-making together!
