BUILDING PERFORMANCE AND PEDAGOGICAL EXCELLENCE

Welcome to the 210 Festival Teaching Artist Fellowship, a three-week program for string players and pianists to teach and perform alongside a team of today’s most dynamic artists from across the globe. This expense-paid opportunity aims to strengthen each Teaching Artist’s portfolio as a complete musician with intensive studies in pedagogy, teaching practicum, and chamber music.

The Teaching Artist Fellowship is a rigorous performance and pedagogy training program for string players and pianists, with the aim of bridging the gap between a teaching artist’s education and professional performance and pedagogy career.

PROGRAM INCLUDES:

  • El Sistema-based training and philosophy, emphasizing comprehensive mentorship and guided practical experience
  • Group and individual piano pedagogy, with hands-on teaching practice and evaluation
  • Chamber music performances, individual lessons, and masterclasses with Guest Artists
  • Fellow showcase and community performances
  • Professional development and pedagogy seminars
  • Free admission to all festival concerts

Apply now

2026 Program Dates

June 1 - 21, 2026

Program Eligbility

At least 18 years of Age/Completed at least one year of undergraduate degree

Instruments

Violin
Viola
Cello
Piano
Double Bass

Important Dates

Application Deadline: March 2, 2026
Acceptance Notification: March 13, 2026

Application Requirements

2-3 videos of contrasting works/short answers on teaching experience and career goals

Fees

Application: $70

Stipends & Reinbursemnts

Per diem: $800

Travel: up to $500
(+$500 For Cello If Flying)

If you have questions regarding the program or the application, please contact Teaching Artist Fellowship Director Wayne Ching at wching@cmi-sa.org

Apply here

Frequently Asked Questions

CAN I APPLY IF I AM NOT A U.S. CITIZEN/RESIDENT?

Yes, though CMI does not sponsor Visa on behalf of fellows for entry into the United States. We are able to work with your institution for CPT/OPT documentation for stipend purposes.

CAN I APPLY IF I AM NOT CURRENTLY IN SCHOOL?

Yes, we will consider your application as long as you meet other program eligibility requirements.

HOW MUCH SHOULD I EXPECT TO TEACH DURING THE PROGRAM?

The Youth Program has eight full instruction days, and you should expect to teach about three hours each day, in addition to assist on the Youth Program Student Showcase.

WHERE WILL I STAY DURING THE FESTIVAL?

All fellows will be housed at Sonesta Suites - Downtown San Antonio (425 Bonham, San Antonio, TX 78205) in a double occupancy suite housing. You will have access to a kitchenette in your hotel room in addition to other hotel amenities. For more information, please visit Sonesta — Downtown San Antonio.

CAN I BRING MY OWN CAR TO THE FESTIVAL?

Yes, the hotel offers complimentary parking. If you choose to drive to San Antonio instead of flying, same reimbursement policy applies (up to $500). If you choose to help us with your own vehicle on local transportation, CMI will supply additional reimbursement.

HOW DO I GET AROUND In SAN ANTONIO?

CMI will supply all festival-related transportation. You are welcome to explore the city during downtime at your own expense. The hotel is a short walk to the Alamo and the San Antonio Riverwalk.

ARE MY MEALS COVERED?

Breakfast is available at the hotel daily. Lunch is supplied on the days which the Youth Program is in session. There will be additional festival/social events which CMI provides meals. Dinners will mostly be on your own.

CAN I ARRIVE LATE OR LEAVE EARLY?

We would strongly prefer all fellows participate in the full programming to receive the complete experience of the fellowship. Exceptions will only be made for extreme professional or personal circumstances and will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.