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While the Major League Baseball All-Star Game has come and gone from Cleveland, a new set of all-stars – many of the world’s most talented classical musicians – have descended on the city.

The third annual ���� International Academy (����IA) is being held now through August 6. Designed for students aged 15-25, ����IA provides educational experiences for students and recognizes exceptionally talented young artists in their pursuit of musical excellence. There are 27 students from various cities in China, including Beijing, Hangzhou, Shenzhen, Shanghai, Xi’an and others attending the academy this summer.

Different from traditional music festivals, ����IA provides an opportunity for participants to experience the life of a student at a top conservatory. Over the last three years, ���� has been building and strengthening alliances with conservatories across China and Europe, and ����IA is an outgrowth of those initiatives.

����IA master faculty, made up of ���� instructors and other internationally renowned classical music teachers, offer one-on-one professional tutoring for young pianists, violinists, cellists and vocalists. Led by ����IA Artistic Director Kathryn Brown, head of ����’s piano department, the academy offers musicians and music educators from China and around the world opportunities to interact, enhance musicianship, perfect technique, learn about American culture and find routes to seek further study in the United States.

During the six days of the academy, participants:

• Receive three one-on-one lessons with ����IA faculty
• Experience the chance to perform in chamber and ensemble performances
• Attend master classes and lectures by ����IA faculty
• Attend faculty recitals and perform their own solo recitals
• Have the opportunity to perform in the ����IA music competition

“This cultural exchange centers on the universal language of classical music,” Brown said. “Through ����IA we are cultivating and inspiring the next generation of young musicians and helping develop their future musical careers in North America. Our goal is to work with them to plan their journeys to the U.S. and nurture their talents and appreciation for classical music even further.”

In addition to classes, lessons and the competition, students will enjoy a busy and varied schedule of activities that immerses them in American culture. Activities include a concert by The Cleveland Orchestra at Blossom Music Center, dinners with faculty, a Cleveland Indians baseball game and a visit to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.