A Unique Blend of education and Performance

The picturesque town of Cortona, Italy, is preparing to host the Nume Academy & Festival, an event celebrated for its unique fusion of high-level music education and captivating public performances. This “extraordinary talent festival” offers a rare opportunity to witness both established classical music icons and emerging young musicians sharing their passion and artistry.

Stars Align in Cortona: Mentorship and Collaboration

This year’s festival boasts an impressive roster of internationally acclaimed artists, including Gidon Kremer and Steven Isserlis, alongside artistic director vlad Stanculeasa. These luminaries will be joined by Stella Chen,Ettore Causa,Andreas Brantelid,and other distinguished musicians,creating an environment ripe for collaboration and mentorship. The festival provides a platform for young talents to learn from the best,fostering the next generation of classical music stars.

“Nume Resonances”: Expanding the Musical Landscape

Adding to the festival’s allure is the new satellite event, “Nume Resonances,” scheduled for July. This series of three concerts will take place in various locations throughout cortona, showcasing the talents of giovanni Gnocchi wiht the Ensemble of Cellos from the Mozarteum University of Salzburg, Alfredo Ferre (aka onomeya), and the Trio Candor, featuring Lisa Jacobs, Lech Antonio Uszynsky, and Christopher Jepson. This expansion promises to immerse the entire city in a vibrant musical atmosphere.

Nurturing Talent: The Heart of the Festival

Founded in 2018 by the visionary violinist Natalie Dentini, the Nume Academy & Festival distinguishes itself through its dual nature: it functions as both an international festival and an academy for exceptional string musicians. Set against the backdrop of Cortona’s medieval charm, the festival aims to support emerging talent and broaden the appeal of classical music. By showcasing the dedication, cultural exchange, and sheer joy behind musical performance, Nume seeks to connect with audiences on a deeper level.

Cortona, with its rich history and artistic heritage, provides an inspiring setting for this cultural exchange. The festival’s commitment to accessibility is evident in its open rehearsals and free access to academy lessons and performances, allowing the public to witness the artistic process firsthand.

Festival Highlights: Masterclasses and Concerts

The 2025 edition, supported by the Municipality of Cortona and various foundations, will welcome 13 exceptionally gifted young musicians, selected from over 300 applicants worldwide. These rising stars will participate in masterclasses and perform alongside renowned artists.

The masterclasses will be held in the evocative setting of the former convent of Sant’Agostino and its auditorium. The Signorelli theatre, a neoclassical landmark, will host the main concerts on June 25, 27, 28, and 29, featuring both established masters and emerging talents. July’s “Nume Resonances” concerts will take place in Palazzo Casali and the Church of San Domenico, further integrating the festival into Cortona’s cultural fabric.

Concert Schedule: A Symphony of Sounds

The festival’s concert lineup promises a diverse and captivating musical journey:

• June 25: Gidon Kremer Concert (19:00) Featuring Kremer, Enrico Pace, Madara Pētersone, ettore causa, and Andreas Brantelid, performing works by Schubert, Harbison, and Schnittke.
• June 27: Slavic Folk Tales (19:00) Vlad Stanculeasa, Andreas Brantelid, Boris Kusnezow, and seven young talents will present music by Glazunov and Dvorak.
• June 28: Pure Romanticism (19:00) Tommaso Lonquich, Stella Chen, Ettore Causa, and five other young concertists will perform pieces by Brahms and Borodin.
• June 29: Steven Isserlis & Friends (19:00) Isserlis, Boris Kusnezow, Irène Duval, Stella Chen, ettore Causa, and Luis Cabrera will present works by Bach, ravel, and Schubert.

Anticipation Builds for Young talents

The classical music world eagerly awaits the proclamation of the 13 exceptionally talented young musicians selected to participate in the prestigious Nume Academy & Festival 2025.Their presence promises to enrich the festival and contribute to the vibrant musical landscape of Cortona.