What kind of practice facilities are available during the masterclasses?

There are ample practice rooms available at the Jan Deyl Conservatory, with both grand and upright pianos (many of them brand new!). Some students will have pianos in their dorm rooms. Twice during the masterclasses, participants will sign up for practice time to ensure that everyone has equal access to pianos. Every student will have access to at least three hours of practice time per day, and more will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Who gets to perform during the festival?

All participants will have the opportunity to perform in a public evening recital at the conservatory's Baroque recital hall. Some students may be selected to perform in a prestigious recital at the Villa Betramka (where Mozart stayed for a long time and wrote his opera, Don Giovanni). Concerts are well-attended by participants and faculty of the masterclasses, as well as by members of the community. In concert, students typically perform both standard and contemporary repertoire. Public masterclass performers will be determined by the faculty.

How many private lessons will I receive?

The Prague International Piano Masterclasses has an excellent student-teacher ratio for an event of this kind, therefore we make every effort to provide you with a private lesson with as many members of our faculty as possible. The number of private lessons available to each student varies from year to year depending on the total number of participants, but on average each participant will receive at least five private lessons.

Do I need a visa to attend the Prague International Piano Masterclasses?

If you are an American citizen (with a passport from the United States), you do not need a visa to enter into the Czech Republic for the duration of the masterclasses – just bring your passport. However, if you are from a country outside of the United States (including international students currently studying in the US), you should check with the Czech Embassy in your country of origin. In most situations a visa is not required, but in some instances it might be. It is your responsibility to find out if a visa is required in your situation, and if so, you should plan accordingly to obtain one well in advance of the masterclasses.

If I have never been to Prague before and don't speak any Czech, will I be completely lost?

No, you will not be lost. Prague is an important international city and a big tourist destination, so most locals speak languages other than Czech, including English. The city offers many sights and landmarks and is easily travelled on foot. Public transportation, including streetcars and subways are cheap and easy ways to get around as well. During the masterclasses there will be several Czech students on hand who can assist you in purchasing train or subway tickets, providing directions, translations, or offering tours of the historical areas of the city.

How do I get to the conservatory from the airport or train station?

The most hassle-free way to get to the Jan Deyl Conservatory is by taxi. Taxis from the airport should cost no more than 600 Czech crowns for the 15-20 minute ride, or from the train station for 100 Czech crowns. Public transportation is also available. More information on getting from the Prague airport to the conservatory will be provided before you arrive in Prague.

What can I do for meals during the masterclasses?

There are many excellent restaurants in all budget-ranges around the conservatory. The dormitories are equipped with a kitchenette, including refrigerator and cooktop, so light cooking may be an option. In addition, daily breakfast is provided at the conservatory for a minimal fee.

How can I check my e-mail during the masterclasses? What about making and receiving telephone calls?

There are at least 3 internet cafes within a five-minute walk of the Jan Deyl Conservatory that offer inexpensive access to the internet. Receiving telephone calls during the masterclasses is difficult, so it is recommended that you purchase an international calling card. Before you leave home you can inquire from your long-distance service provider as to their international rates to the Czech Republic, or calling cards can be purchased either at home or at any news stand in Prague. There are several phone booths conveniently near the conservatory.

What is the social life like at the masterclasses and in the city of Prague?

As Prague is a major capital city and tourist destination, there are many cultural and social activities easily within walking distance. Events include world-class concerts, operas, museums, and tours of the city or neighborhoods. Numerous bars and clubs offer evening activities as well.