Viola Master Classes

Artistic Direction: Thomas Riebl

August 10 – 18, 2026

Thomas Riebl

Diyang Mei

Marko Milenkovic

Bad Leonfelden is a charming small town at the foot of the Bohemian Forest, located about 30 km north of Linz at an altitude of 750 m.
The master classes of the International Summer Academy take place here in an atmosphere that is both relaxed and focused.

Active participants receive at least 4×45 minutes of individual lessons; semi-active participants receive at least 2×45 minutes of individual lessons.
it is possible to receive lessons from different professors

All participants enjoy free admission to all courses and concerts. The program is supplemented by audition training, inspiring lectures, and daily Qi Gong.

Course Dates 2026

August 10 – 18

The courses begin on August 10, 2025, at 3:00 PM. Participants must provide a URL to a (video) recording along with their registration.

In order to receive a preliminary decision regarding (semi-)active participation, this recording must be sent to the Summer Academy by July 10.

Participants are free to take their lessons with different professors.

Departure takes place on August 18.

„It was a truly rewarding time in every respect in this wonderful atmosphere, so connected to people, nature, and music — thank you very much!“

Participant

Highlights

Qi Gong

A guided Qi Gong session with Prof. Thomas Riebl takes place every morning. The exercises offer a great start to the day and can also be integrated into daily musical life.

Faculty Concert

The professors give a joint concert, showcasing their artistic skills.

Closing Concerts

At the end of the academy, there is an internal concert as well as a public closing concert, where participants can present the program they have prepared.

Technique Lecture

In an open lecture, fundamental technical, physical, and mental questions regarding viola playing will be addressed. There will be room for questions and group discussion.

Bach Lecture

Prof. Thomas Riebl provides insights into his ideas on the interpretation of the Cello Suites by Johann Sebastian Bach.

Audition Training

There is the opportunity to participate in audition training and subsequently receive feedback from everyone present.

Participation & Fees

Registration

Registration fee: €30 (The registration fee is non-refundable)
Registration deadline: July 10

Course Fee

€610.00 for active participation:
at least 4x 45 min. of individual lessons (including accompaniment)
€380.00 for semi-active participation:
at least 2x 45 min. of individual lessons (including accompaniment)
€180.00 for passive participation

Payment

Payment of the registration fee must be made at the same time as registration! Please note: registration can only be processed after the registration fee has been received! Payment of the full course fee must be made by July 18, 2025. To avoid bank charges, it can be paid at the same time as the registration fee. All payments must be made „free of charges for the recipient.“ In the case of semi-active or passive participation, the difference will be refunded.

Accommodation

Sommerhaus Hotel
Auweg 5
A-4190 Bad Leonfelden
Sommerhaus Website

We will book the room once the registration fee has been received; it must be paid by the participants on-site at the Sommerhaus Hotel.

Cost per night in a twin room:

Double room with breakfast €44.00
Double room with full board €54.00
Double room with breakfast and dinner only €49.00
Single room supplement €10.00 (limited number)
Tourist tax €2.40 (for those born in 2009 or later)

Arrival

from Linz Main Station, Bus Terminal B5