Founded by the German violinist Kirill Troussov, the second edition of the Sarasate Academy is now welcoming applications from violinists, violists, and cellists of all ages and nationalities.

Sessions offered at the Academy include four 45-minute masterclasses, masterclass concerts with piano accompaniment, a professor’s concert, and a final celebratory chamber music concert on May 17.

Mihaela Martin and Kirill Troussov will teach the violin classes, Thomas Riebl will lead violas, and cellists will study with Frans Helmerson.

Chamber music classes will be taught by the Academy’s two directors, violinist Paloma Pierzchala and cellist Eduardo González.

For more information and to apply, click here. The deadline for applications is March 1, 2026.

"The Sarasate Academy stands out particularly for its individualized approach: the talents who participate are the focus and they are supported at every step of their journey," Kirill Troussov told The Violin Channel.

"Alongside professional individual lessons, the students also engage in chamber music classes, allowing them to develop both as soloists and as ensemble musicians. At the end of the program, participants have the chance to win several prizes and awards, further encouraging the students' growth and commitment. The generous backing from our esteemed sponsors adds another unique dimension to this Academy, making it possible to offer a world-class experience for all participants."

One outstanding 2026 Academy participant will receive the Sarasate Award, which will see them perform solo with a symphonic orchestra in Spain during the upcoming subscription season.

The Academy will also present the Florian Leonhard Fine Violins Award for the loan of a fine old Italian instrument, to be used for two engagements within a year.

Other awards offered include those from Gewa Music, Pirastro, Classeek, Violinbooks, Dolfinos, plus a €150 prize from G. Henle Publishers, and personal career coaching from The Violin Channel. Every student will also receive 1000 free credits for the Henle Library.

The selected participants will be sent a confirmation email on March 10, 2026. Fees for booked masterclasses must be paid by March 20, 2026.

"We look forward to discovering new talents from the many applications we’ll receive, just as we did in 2025," Troussov added. "Our goal is to continue this tradition in 2026, offering young musicians the opportunity to grow, learn, and showcase their skills.

"I am thrilled to once again invite world-class professors to the Academy," he concluded. "We share a long-standing friendship, and I am excited that Prof. Mihaela Martin, Prof. Thomas Riebl and Prof. Frans Helmerson will be joining us for this year’s Academy. Their expertise and passion will be a huge inspiration for all participants."