TESTIMONIALS
"What a marvellous experience!
I want to express my sincerest thanks to Maestro Alexander Polyanichko.
The workshop was one of the most valuable musical experiences of my
life. I have learned more about how to conduct a orchestra in those
several days than I have learned in the past several years. Thank you PGMA
for this great opportunity!"
Silvia Tabor, conductor, Canada/Moldova
"I appreciated a lot the work we did at Peter the Great Music Academy
for the following reasons: 1) you work with an outstanding orchestra
which allows you to try very hard repertoire in an easy way, having no
necessity to work too much on the technical side but concentrating
yourself on the musical side; 2) you can benefit from the very
stimulating environment that Maestro Nicotra is able to keep: it is
the first Masterclass in which there was not competition among the
participants, so that you can feel more free to express yourself; 3)
you are in the wonderful city of Saint Petersburg, full of cultural
activities. A special thank also to the perfect organization and to the very professional pianists."
Alfonso Rivolta, Italy
"This is one of the most beneficial masterclasses it has been my privilege ever to attend (twice). Working with a teacher of the highest calibre and an excellent professional orchestra for such extended and intense sessions, as well as the congenial workmanship in the piano sessions should be every aspiring conductor's dream! My recommendation for student and professional alike is unreserved!"
Johan Michael Katz,
Music Director, The Sinfonietta, UK
"My experience with the masterclass in St. Petersburg was amazing! Everything was meticulously organized, the faculty was fantastic, and the orchestra absolutely incredible. I would highly recommend this masterclass and Peter the Great Music Academy to anyone who is seriously interested in becoming a professional conductor!"
Predrag Gosta,
Artistic Director & Conductor, New Trinity Baroque, USA
Music Director & Conductor, Gwinnett Ballet Theatre, USA
"The Peter the Great Conducting Masterclass that was presented by the Musin Association was a life-changing experience for me. Held in a non-threatening and supportive environment, Professors Nicotra and Polyanichko taught the participants the fundamentals of the renowned Musin conducting technique and through close guidance helped us work with the orchestra to achieve a final performance that surpassed everyone's expectations. The St. Petersburg State Academic Orchestra was excellent to work with as they were always patient and quick to follow our directions. This course lifted my expectations of myself and has allowed me to come closer to my ambition of being a professional conductor."
Benjamin Le Heux,
New Zealand
"Frequentare nel Settembre 2006 la masterclass del M° Ennio Nicotra nella città di S. Petersburg, mi ha permesso di apprezzare la perfetta organizzazione della "Peter the Great Music Academy", dotata di un'orchestra, attenta e assolutamente recettiva, che ha saputo regalare a noi giovani direttori fantastiche emozioni.
Il M° Ennio Nicotra, lungimirante didatta di sconfinata pazienza, artista attento e scrupoloso, è stato in grado di "stimolare" gli allievi, e non soltanto durante le lezioni, grazie alle sue straordinarie doti tecniche e maieutiche.
Un plauso particolare va alla Dr. Elena Kostyuchenko che ha curato nei minimi dettagli l'organizzazione della masterclass, nonché alle due pianiste che, con estrema professionalità, hanno sostituito l'orchestra in fase di studio e che costantemente hanno spronato gli allievi affinché acquisissero una chiara ed efficace gestualità sin dall'inizio.
Consiglio pertanto di frequentare le future masterclasses a chiunque voglia approfondire l'aspetto comunicativo - interpretativo della direzione d'orchestra. L'allievo troverà docenti e musicisti qualificati a soddisfare le proprie esigenze di studio."
Alberto Maniaci, conductor, pianist and composer, Italy
Music Director & Conductor, Orchestra Giovani le Mediterranea, Italy
"Peter the Great Music Academy Conducting Masterclass is a special occasion for every student who wants to improve his technique and his musical knowledge. Both maestros Nicotra and Polyanichko have helped me in such a way that is simply unforgettable! Special thanks to the amazing St. Petersburg Academic Symphony, who played with great energy and love, it was a real pleasure to work with you, guys! If you are looking for an intense, rich, professional, challenging conducting experience, this is the right place!"
Andrea Battistoni, cellist and conductor, Italy
If you are a past participant and would like to send us your testimonial, please contact us today. We would love to hear from you!
