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Critiques
The 2009 Institute will be our 10th successful summer workshop. Here are just a few student comments from the past 5 years:
COMMENTS ABOUT THE VALUE OF THE WORKSHOP
 "Having three talented faculty members was well worth the money."
"No kidding it was the best workshop I have been to from the teaching and the insight, the commitment and support, the orchestra and the organization. Tutti bravissimo."
"The concerts were a major asset. I don't know of any other workshop that offers two concerts."
"The best value I have seen - so much podium time. Unbelievable for the price. And such a good quality orchestra. Really they are worth their weight in gold!"
"I would unreservedly recommend this workshop to colleagues."
"Because of the great time I had last year I wanted to return and have a repeat performance. I have not been disappointed."
"The amount of podium time, cost effectiveness and supportive nature of the teachers makes this a great workshop. I loved the whole experience."
"My cost was less expensive than other workshops that I was accepted into. I am coming back."
COMMENTS ABOUT THE FACULTY
"All three faculty offered unique ways to solve sticky spots."
"I want to thank you for a truly awesome experience in Bacau. I was challenged in so many ways all for improving my art. I can't thank you enough."
"Excellent teaching - very individualized. Great many opportunities to sit, talk and ask questions."
"The faculty were caring and demanding. I enjoyed being pushed and expanding on my skills. I have never worked so diligently."
"The faculty worked together amazingly well though they often have different things to say." Each is warm and caring and eminently helpful."
"The Laban presentation by Charles Gambetta was eye opening."
"Both Maestri Balan and Gutter are amazing. They have been teaching me exactly what I need to do."
"Maestro Balan's daily exercises very valuable, and I will continue this."
"Compliments for fostering a mutually supportive atmosphere between all participants."
COMMENTS ABOUT PODIUM TIME, PREP SESSIONS AND CONCERTS
"The preparatory sessions were good for sorting out tempi and potential awkward spots. They also worked well for bowings and other string-related issues."
"The concerts were a real confirmation of what I learned each week. I've never been to a workshop that offers 2 performances. This is great!"
"The two concerts gave me not only the hoped-for opportunity to conduct, but also to work within a real world concert situation."
"It is so wonderful to be able to work out problems before we get in front of the big orchestra. That way our time with the orchestra is more efficient and we learn more."
"I loved that in the evenings we prepared the rep for the next morning with the orchestra."
"Concerts are one of the best things here - especially with a professional orchestra."
COMMENTS ABOUT THE ORCHESTRA
"The hospitality of the orchestra management was impressive and endearing."
"Having worked with other professional orchestras before, this one (the orchestra) is right up there with my other experiences. First rate."
"Orchestra was very friendly, respectful, helpful, and knew the repertoire."
"The orchestra was very receptive and able to change if they were asked. The players played their hearts out."
"As a player for years, I know what orchestras can do to conductors they are not inspired by. I inspired them and they played very, very well."
"They play with real heart and commitment and don't have a negative attitude toward the conductors. Always sharing advice & tips."
COMMENTS ABOUT THE LOCATION AND ACCOMMODATIONS
"Very reasonable for everything. I like being in downtown Bacau near everything: folk festival, internet, bank machines, good restaurants and great shopping."
"The hotel was fine. It wasn't amazing but it didn't feel dirty or unsafe - just a little less sleek than most American hotels.For the use of a professional orchestra and considering including housing, it is an amazing value."
"Not bad for the price we paid (hotel)."
"I really enjoyed the folk music festival - to see and learn more about the Romanian culture."
"Room fine, clean with serviceable breakfast."
COMMENTS ABOUT THE ADMINISTRATION AND ORGANIZATION
"Among the best prep I've ever seen. Wonderful job!"
"The administrative support was incredible."
"I had a great time because of wonderful organization and management."
"Just like last year the organization is very organized."
"Organization and management -- perfect."
"The organization and management are excellent. They are an asset to the Institute."
"I found the organization prior to arriving at the Institute excellent. There were lots of 'perks' that no other workshop has."
A beautiful summer day in Bacau
2008 Institute
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