Biima- Breno Italy International Music Academy

Biima- Breno Italy International Music Academy At BIIMA, artists thrive in a breathtaking, non-judgemental space in the Italian Alps. VOICE/PIANO: One-On-One And Personalized Training.

With daily coachings, reflection, and mentorship, we nurture each artist—tackling vocal challenges, building confidence, and celebrating individual growth—together. This program is tailor-made for each musician, working alongside others on body awareness, repertoire, technique, and performance. On a daily basis, each musician has lessons, coachings and participation in the masterclasses. The resul

ts of this work is show-cased in performances over the course of the two weeks. Making music at the convent in the Italian Alps, surrounded by the Italian language, inspires each artist to push themselves beyond what they think they are capable of and, with the guidance of their coaches, the artists grow tremendously in this short period of time. On top of their training, the students will receive regular Italian language class, body awareness group classes and the chance to take in the sights of Verona and an opera at the ancient amphitheatre. FLUTE: This program will focus not only on the art of flute playing, but also on developing the qualities of a well-rounded artist. In addition to daily lessons and masterclasses, Lara Deutsch will share her experiences working with an Olympic mental coach and lead discussions about optimal performance and the importance of mental skills training. Participants will be encouraged to step out of their musical comfort zones and to find new ways to connect with audiences, as well as to perform for the Italian public, if desired. This retreat will provide the perfect opportunity to reflect, set goals, and discover what success as an artist means to you. COMPOSITION: Join a group of peer artists (composers, music producers, writers, choreographers and musicians) and explore the depths of your imagination with Margaret Maria guiding you. Her unique approach will help you find your unique signature, or expand your concept of it. Wherever you are on your journey as a musician or creator, regardless of genre or arts discipline, this retreat will unlock the true artist within. Participate in a groundbreaking process that taps into your authentic creativity and expands your horizons. Unearth ideas and sounds of all kinds on 'inspiration walks' throughout Breno, gallery tours, and other unique excursions. The group will refine their skills and work together towards a mutual goal: spontaneous creation.
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Incredible day in the life of BIIMA! Thank you Jacinthe Bernier!
07/21/2026

Incredible day in the life of BIIMA! Thank you Jacinthe Bernier!

07/17/2026

Every voice has a story.

At BIIMA, every lesson goes beyond technique. It’s about helping artists quiet self-doubt, embrace their strengths, and discover what’s possible with the support of a community that believes in them.

Watch Maghan share one of this week’s most meaningful moments. ❤️

07/15/2026

What makes BIIMA more than just a summer music program?

For Julia Jordan, it was a place that shaped her confidence, her career, and her life.

Now, as BIIMA’s Choral Retreat Coordinator, she gets to watch that same transformation unfold for others year after year.

As our Voice Intensive and Composition programs begin, we’re excited to welcome a new group of artists to Breno. Here’s to new friendships, new discoveries, and the moments that stay with you long after the music ends. ❤️

Please join us in welcoming Dr. Michel-Alexandre Broekaert, the newest member of BIIMA’s faculty!An accomplished collabo...
07/09/2026

Please join us in welcoming Dr. Michel-Alexandre Broekaert, the newest member of BIIMA’s faculty!

An accomplished collaborative pianist, vocal coach, and opera specialist, Michel-Alexandre brings a wealth of experience in opera, art song, and chamber music. Throughout his career, he has collaborated with leading music organizations, festivals, and young artists across Canada and internationally, while serving on the faculty of the Conservatoire de musique de Rimouski.

This summer, we’re delighted to welcome Michel-Alexandre to BIIMA’s Voice Intensive, where he’ll be mentoring and collaborating with this year’s talented artists in Breno, Italy.

Welcome to the BIIMA family, Michel-Alexandre! 🇮🇹🎶

07/06/2026

Day 1 of BIIMA Interviews!

Every participant arrives at BIIMA with their own story.

For some, it’s the opportunity to sing with others. For others, it’s the chance to grow as musicians, experience Italy, or simply say “yes” to something new. Different journeys, different motivations, but one shared love of music.

This year’s Choral Retreat has brought together singers from across Canada and the United States, creating a community built on curiosity, collaboration, and a passion for choral music.

What would inspire you to take part in an experience like this? 🇮🇹🎶

07/02/2026

What makes BIIMA so special isn’t just the music—it’s the people.

Every summer, singers from different backgrounds come together in Breno, many meeting for the very first time. Through rehearsals, conversations, and shared experiences, they discover that their love of music creates an immediate sense of connection and community.

This week, our Choral Retreat participants have been exploring not only the beautiful town of Breno, but also the stories that brought them here. Together, they’re discovering their musical “why”—the memories, experiences, and passions that continue to inspire them to sing.
As rehearsals continue, we’re excited to watch these voices grow together, both on and off the stage. 🇮🇹🎶

Congratulations to our 2026 BIIMA Choral Retreat Scavenger Hunt winners!👏 Brigette👏 Jennifer👏 Chantal👏 DongmeiAt the beg...
06/30/2026

Congratulations to our 2026 BIIMA Choral Retreat Scavenger Hunt winners!

👏 Brigette
👏 Jennifer
👏 Chantal
👏 Dongmei

At the beginning of every BIIMA program, participants take part in our annual Scavenger Hunt, a fun tradition designed to help everyone explore Breno, discover local landmarks, connect with one another, and interact with members of the community.

Over the next two weeks, Breno becomes more than just the backdrop to our program, it becomes home. From navigating its charming streets to meeting local residents, the Scavenger Hunt is one of the first steps in building the friendships, confidence, and sense of belonging that make the BIIMA experience so special.

Congratulations again to our winners, and thank you to everyone who embraced the adventure. Here’s to an unforgettable two weeks in Breno! 🇮🇹✨

In just a few days, BIIMA’s Choral Retreat begins in the beautiful town of Breno, Italy.For two weeks, participants will...
06/26/2026

In just a few days, BIIMA’s Choral Retreat begins in the beautiful town of Breno, Italy.

For two weeks, participants will immerse themselves in a unique experience that blends artistic excellence with cultural discovery. From rehearsals, mentorship, and collaborative music-making to exploring Northern Italy and creating lifelong friendships, the Choral Retreat is designed to inspire both musicians and people.

Guided by an exceptional faculty—Maghan McPhee, Lee Carter, Jason Handy, and Julia Jordan—participants will learn, perform, and grow together while experiencing the rich culture and beauty of Italy.

To everyone joining us this summer: safe travels! We look forward to welcoming you to Breno and sharing another unforgettable BIIMA season together.

06/22/2026

We are thrilled to share some wonderful news: Ember-Leah Reed’s tuition for BIIMA’s Composition Program has now been fully funded.

A violinist, vocalist, composer, and interdisciplinary artist, Ember-Leah brings a spirit of creativity and artistic exploration that reflects the heart of BIIMA. We are excited to welcome her to Breno, Italy this summer.

This opportunity was made possible through the proceeds of our sold-out Awakening Dreams fundraiser, additional donations from concertgoers, and the extraordinary generosity of Margaret Campbell.

We are especially grateful to Margaret Campbell, whose commitment to supporting young artists has already provided full scholarships for Meredith McCabe and Nieve Xiao. Her additional support helped make it possible for Ember-Leah to join us this summer.

We would also like to thank Louise Binette, Tina Royer, Dr. Jane Lougheed, Mark Robinson, Maghan McPhee, and the many members of our community who contributed to this effort.

At BIIMA, we believe in creating opportunities for emerging artists to learn, create, and grow. Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, that vision continues to become a reality.

Please join us in congratulating Ember-Leah as she prepares for an inspiring summer in our Composition Program.

If you’d like to support future scholarship opportunities, donations can be made through the l1nk in bi0.

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