Who can attend K.I.I.S.S?

Students, amateurs, and professional players of the violin, viola, cello, piano, composition/arranging/orchestration/theory and select vocalists aged 18 and older may attend. Exceptions for younger students with chaperones may be made at the discretion of the directors.

How can I apply and register?

No auditions are required for registration, but SPACE IS LIMITED for those wishing to stay on the campus of Le Moulin de César! To register and secure your place, please email a letter of interest to krakauerinstitute@gmail.com with the subject heading “Registration”. You may be asked to submit a recent recording for placement purposes, or to play for a faculty member via zoom or in person if possible. Please see registration details on our registration page.

What is the cost of tuition?

For students enrolled in a full-time university or conservatory program: $1200.00 (*$1100.00 if applying by 2/15/24)

All others: $1500.00 (*$1400 if applying by 2/15/24)

*For those applying by the EARLY registration deadline of February 15th, a $100 tuition discount will be granted.

Tuition rates include 8 full days of classes, workshops, and special programs. Tuition does not include airfare or any other travel expenses. We never want anyone to feel that cost is prohibitive. We encourage all applicants to apply for scholarships which will be given on a basis of need and merit. Please include a statement of need with your registration email. Scholarship recipients will be notified on March 1st, 2024. You must apply by the February 15th deadline to be considered for scholarship.

Where do we stay? What will the accommodations be like?

Accommodations and meals will be provided by Escapade Vacances in the beautiful surroundings of their property, Le Moulin De César, just a short walk from the town center of Vaison. The grounds boast splendid gardens with plenty of areas for relaxation and recreation, as well as a private pool, terrace, and bar. The property can be viewed here.

What is the cost for room and board?

Cost for room and full board (3 meals a day) is $550.00 per person for a shared double room, and $486.00 per person for a triple room (limited availability), and $650.00 per person for a single room (limited availability). Please indicate your preferences when registering.

What does a typical day consist of?

A typical day will offer the following:

7-9 AM: Morning Yoga (optional) and Breakfast

9-11 AM: Lessons, Coachings, and Ensemble Rehearsals or Personal Practice

11 AM: Morning Workshops by Focus Area (shifting, intonation, practice, theory) or optional free time

12-1:30 PM: Lunch and Free Time

1:30-3 PM: Siesta/Free Time Many French businesses close down for a few hours every afternoon, giving workers the chance to eat lunch and spend time with friends and family. This is also considered a form of siesta. It's a general attitude of slowing down to enjoy life and an integral part of the rhythm of each day at the stage. Participants are encouraged to use this time to rest.

3-5 PM: Lessons, Coachings, and Ensemble Rehearsals/Personal Practice

5 PM: Afternoon Workshops in Feldenkrais or other Focus Area or optional free time

6 PM: Dinner and Free Time

7 PM: Evening Concerts by KIISS Faculty/Excursions to Town Vaison plays host to numerous weekly cultural events and concerts.

After Hours: The property features fire pits and bar on site for those who would like to relax at day’s end. The town of Vaison is home to many vibrant bars and cafes for those looking to socialize off-campus.

Will practice rooms be available? With pianos?

Yes. Practice rooms will be available for sign out with 5 pianos for participants to share.

Where is Vaison-La-Romaine? How do I get there?

Vaison-la-Romaine is a located in the Vaucluse department in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region in southeastern France. It is reachable from Paris and Marseilles airports via the TGV to Avignon or Orange, followed by a short drive. Car rentals are available at Avignon and Aix-en-Provence (and other stations), and Ubers and Taxis available from Orange (approximately a 25-30 minute ride).

What else is there to do in the area?

There is perhaps no more beautiful region in the world than Provence in the summer. Fields of lavender and sunflowers, olive trees, orchards filled with stone fruit, blue skies and the warm summer sun all come together for a slower paced life filled with inspiring scenes such as these. Provence is filled with markets, art exhibitions, cultural events, and concerts. The region is also home to wineries, restaurants with incredible regional cuisine, and a vast selection of bakeries, olive oil producers, and producers of other regional products.

The traditional and organic farmers’ market takes place on Tuesday and Saturday mornings from 08:00. In the summer, the market is also held on Thursday mornings. On a Tuesday morning during the summer season you'll find The Great Provencal Market in the historical centre of Vaison-la-Romaine, with up to 450 exhibitors including local arts and crafts, local and regional produce, clothing, accessories, kitchen utensils and many other Provencal items. There is also a 'brocante' or second-hand market on the third Sunday of every month at Place François Cévert from 08:00 to 19:00.

Vaison also boasts impressive Roman ruins, and a large amphitheater where concerts are often held. Ample opportunities for cycling, hiking, and pleasant walks abound in the area. As part of a vast network of small Provençal towns, day trips to other fascinating villages and cities such as Aix-en-Provence, Arles, Orange, and Avignon are within easy reach.

Do I need a visa to travel to France?

The new visa rules for France were set to go into effect in 2024, but officials have announced the rollout will be postponed until 2025. Entry into France for short-term tourism (90 days) or business requires that your passport be valid for at least three months beyond your intended date of departure from the Schengen Area. More information can be found here.

When should I arrive and depart Vaison?

Attendees should plan to arrive on Friday June 21st and check in between 3 and 6 PM. Departure will be on June 30th before 10 AM.