Fellowship Program

Created in honor of Lewis Kaplan

JUNE 28 - AUGUST 9, 2025 (6-WEEK PROGRAM)
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2025 Applications Open in November

Instruments used in this program:


Program Overview: Bowdoin’s summer music Fellowship Program is a fully-funded opportunity for the most advanced musicians at the beginning of professional lives in music. Fellows are defined by their advanced artistry, command of their instrument, and commitment to outstanding musical experiences. The Fellowship Program was created in honor of Festival Co-Founder Lewis Kaplan. The program offers the full resources of the internationally-renowned faculty for an intensive and extensive exploration of solo and chamber repertoire. Fellows may have opportunities to perform alongside faculty and guest artists in the Festival’s subscription concert series and work with these artists to enhance technical and interpretive skills. The frequent performance opportunities, intensive study, and high standards for entry make the Fellowship program among the most respected in the nation. Please note: the Fellowship Program is the only opportunity open to wind musicians.

When applying to the Fellowship Program, you may indicate whether you would also like to be considered for the Instrumental or Composition Program if you don’t receive a fellowship position. You only need to fill out one application.

Visit ADMISSIONS HOME for information about program fees, student life, and the application process.

By The Numbers

30

FELLOWS

6

WEEK PROGRAM

21+

AGE

80

FACULTY & ARTISTS

100%

FUNDED

200

CONCERTS & EVENTS

Audition Requirements

String & Piano Audition Videos: please submit two contrasting pieces of any length that best represent your current level of playing. An accompanist is encouraged, however, not required.

Wind Audition Videos: please submit the following:

  • Exposition of the first movement of a Mozart concerto
  • An additional work of your choice
  • A contemporary piece demonstrating proficiency with basic extended techniques i.e. flutter tonguing, double stops, harmonics, double tonguing for double reed player
  • Encouraged, but not Required: One movement from a chamber music work from any period
  • Note: a brief interview may be requested through an online video appointment

Composition: please submit two original scores in PDF format and recordings of each of the scores. MIDI realizations are acceptable.

The Fellowship Program

Artistic Directors David Ying and Phillip Ying discuss the special fellowship experience.

STUDY

  • Private lessons with faculty (1 per week)
  • Studio classes
  • Chamber music
  • Ample practice time
  • Composer lectures
  • Seminars with faculty and guest artists

PERFORM

  • Subscription Concert Series
  • Gamper Festival of Contemporary Music
  • Young Artists Series
  • Community Concerts
  • Masterclasses
  • Collaborations with guest and student composers
  • Festival orchestra

BENEFITS

  • Free tuition, room, and board
  • Flexible schedule
  • Free tickets to faculty concerts
  • Livestream of performances and masterclasses
  • HD video recordings of performances
  • Photo session with Festival photographer

Apply to Bowdoin Festival

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