Curtis Institute of Music

Curtis hosted the inaugural Philadelphia Trombone Week. 🤩

This 5-day intensive, organized by trombone student Jackson Howard as part of the Community Artist Program, featured masterclasses, lessons, and performances with members of the Philadelphia Orchestra.

Learn more about this program: https://www.curtis.edu/news/curtis-presents-first-annual-philadelphia-trombone-week/

Congratulations to cello student Tae-Yeon Kim for winning second prize at the 2026 Queen Elisabeth Competition. 🎉

Learn more about the prestigious competition and watch her final performance here:

Tae-Yeon Kim Claims Second Prize at 2026 Queen Elisabeth Competition The Korean cellist finished as runner up at the prestigious international competition, receiving a cash prize of 20,000 euros.

We are deeply saddened to share that Ford Lallerstedt, a beloved faculty member and organist, passed away on May 20 at age 76. We extend our deepest condolences to his wife, mezzo-soprano Brenda Boozer, and to his many current and former students, colleagues, and friends. We will miss him greatly.

As a tribute to Dr. Lallerstedt, we are collecting notes and photographs to share with the Curtis community later this year. We invite you to share your remembrances by sending them to [email protected].

Learn more about Dr. Lallerstedt's impact and legacy:

Mourning the Loss of Longtime Faculty Ford Lallerstedt The beloved faculty member and organist passed away on May 20 at age 76.

The Symposium for Women & Nonbinary Bassists returns to Curtis May 28–31, offering lessons, masterclasses, workshops, and performances opportunities for women and non-binary double bassists of all levels from around the world. 🎵

This symposium also includes a free faculty recital that is open to the public on Saturday, May 30 at 3:00 p.m. in Gould Rehearsal Hall.

Learn more and register for the symposium:

Symposium for Women & Non-Binary Bassists Faculty Recital Now in its fourth year, this symposium brings together an outstanding faculty and a vibrant international community of bassists for…

Every year, Curtis students take the stage for more than 100 free recitals, bringing fresh combinations of performers, repertoire, and composers to each program. 🎵

Experience incredible artistry and compelling performances anywhere at youtube.com/curtisinstitute. 📺

📷: Tracie Van Auken

We sat down with Eric Lu (Piano ’20), winner of the 2025 International Chopin Piano Competition, to discuss his artistic process, what this monumental milestone means to him, and how he sustains focus in such high-stakes environments. 🎹

Read the full inverview:

Eric Lu (Piano ’20) on Musical Conviction and Artistic Growth Following his International Chopin Piano Competition win, the pianist discusses artistic maturity, performance pressure, and lifelong musical growth.

On Saturday, May 16, Curtis awarded degrees, diplomas, certificates, and special prizes to the 39 graduates of the class of 2026. 🎓 Nikan Ingabire Kanate (Opera ’26), Ben Price (Oboe ’26), Amanda Majeski (Opera ’09), and alumnus Alan Gilbert (Conducting ’92) gave remarks.

Learn more and watch a recording of the ceremony:

Commencement: Curtis Celebrates the Class of 2026 On Saturday, May 16, Curtis awarded degrees, diplomas, certificates, and special prizes to the 39 graduates of the class of 2026.

A night to remember. ✨

The 2026 Curtis Gala featured stunning student performances, a beautiful cocktail reception, and an elegant dinner at The Bellevue, all hosted by the brilliant Benjamin Beilman (Violin '12).

🗓️ Save the date for next year's gala: May 13, 2027. We hope to see you there. 🎉