It is with great joy and enthusiasm that we announce the return of the Marina Piccinini International Masterclasses (MPIMC) from June 1 - 8, 2024, in Bürglen, Uri, Switzerland - the magical and mythical birthplace of William Tell.

Founded in 2008, MPIMC has fostered and promoted the talents of flutists from around the globe. Throughout the years, classes have been held at various locations, beginning with the Peabody Institute in Baltimore, to the New World Center in Miami Beach, the campus of the Marlboro Festival in Vermont, and numerous Online sessions during the covid years.

In 2020 Marina and her family became residents of Bürglen, Switzerland, spending the lockdown period high in the Swiss alps. Their experience in this haven of natural beauty and simple dignity brought them a new vision, energy, and perspective, which resulted in the founding of a new chamber music festival: Zauberklang. This festival aims at blending the highest level of artistic presentations in an intimate and simple setting and surrounding. This inaugural season features Marina Piccinini and Andreas Haefliger, co-Artistic Directors, alongside guest artists Hilary Hahn, Ian Bostridge, Avi Avital and Anneleen Lenaerts.

Bringing MPIMC alongside this new endeavour is a natural and exciting extension of the core and intrinsic artistic and humanitarian values of the festival. As in previous years, the masterclasses will focus on Expression Through Interpretation™. A limited number of performers will be selected to work closely with Ms. Piccinini in daily masterclasses with piano, with a series of carefully curated musical experiences including warm-ups, improvisation classes and exhibits by renowned flute makers supporting the week. Both performers and week auditors will live, work, dine, and enjoy nature high up in the mountains on the Biel-Kinzig. Daily auditors will also be welcome for the class events.

The week begins with a Zauberklang Recital given by Marina, Avi and Anneleen in the Pfarrkirche St. Peter und Paul in Bürglen, and ends with a recital given by the participants in the Biel Kappelle.

An exciting addition to the week is the return of MPIMC Concerto Competition, open to all performing participants, the winner of which will perform a Concerto with the Farnborough Symphony Orchestra in the UK during the 25/26 season. For more information on eligibility and how to apply, please visit the Concerto competition page.

All classes will be held in the simple Chapel on the Biel-Kinzig. Due to the remote and breathtaking nature of this location, participants and week auditors are encouraged to reside in one of the two lodging accommodations, both with full breakfast service included. It is possible also to find other accommodations in Altdorf, or in AirBnBs on the mountain. Dining can be organised individually or MPIMC is also happy to broker a group evening meal plan at the Edelweiss Hotel.

Set against the backdrop of the Swiss Alps, participants will be immersed in the sheer beauty and majesty of the mountains, creating a truly magical atmosphere for musical learning, inspiration and collaboration. There will also be opportunities for explorations and hikes, sampling of local cuisine, and even swimming in the Vierwaldstaetter See. Uri's proximity to Lucerne adds another layer of cultural richness, allowing participants to explore the nearby city with its historic landmarks, vibrant cultural scene, and stunning lakeside views.

We look forward to welcoming all of you in joining us on this new version of our 16-year adventure.