2nd Corelli International Music Fest – Rome, Italy 2026-27

Presented by Indo-European Orchestra, India and Corelli Istituto, Italy

Masterclass & Recital Fest in Rome, Italy

From 27th December 2026 to 3rd January 2027

Corelli International Music Fest (CIMF) is a landmark Masterclass and Recital event making its second appearance in Rome, Italy, from December 27th 2026 to January 3rd 2027. A visionary initiative by the Indo-European Youth Orchestra (IEYO), India, in collaboration with Corelli Istituto, Italy. CIMF is designed to elevate the artistry of Western Classical music students from India. The inaugural Corelli International Music Fest (CIMF), had been an overwhelming success (27th Dec’25 to 3rd Jan’26), leaving behind a profound legacy of artistic growth, cultural exchange, and musical excellence. CIMF has firmly established itself as a transformative platform for young Indian Western Classical musicians in Europe. With the guidance from esteemed Maestros of Corelli Istituto in the Masterclasses, participants will gain invaluable exposure to refined techniques, profound musical interpretations, and enriching performance experiences.

The Indo-European Youth Orchestra (IEYO), known for its Grand Budapest Annual Concert Series in Hungary, is celebrated for its distinctive confluence of Western and Indian classical musical traditions. IEYO is an initiative of the Michael Makhal Symphony Orchestra (MMSO). MMSO, India’s premier Western Classical music education and performance organization, has been consistently fostering musical excellence and cross-cultural collaboration since its inception under the leadership of Maestro Michael Rupam Makhal.

The Corelli Istituto, a highly esteemed music institute in Italy, brings a wealth of experience to this collaboration. With its reputable institute in Rome and a distinguished faculty of educators and performers – many of whom grace Europe’s most prestigious ensembles and orchestras, the Corelli Istituto ensures a world‑class experience.

CIMF stands apart as a Masterclass Festival with a unique focus, specifically tailored to the needs of Western Classical music students from the Indian subcontinent. Carefully curated by Maestro Michael Rupam Makhal and his long-time friend, renowned Italian Pianist, Composer, Conductor, and Educator Maestro Alessandro Viale. The festival blends tradition with innovation. Maestro Viale, a passionate advocate for intercultural musical exchanges, has previously engaged with India’s Autumn International Music Fest Hyderabad, India (2018), and CIMF 2025-26, organized by MMSO. His deep connection with India adds a special dimension to the CIMF experience.

Masterclass Program at Corelli International Music Fest

The Corelli Istituto, a prestigious music institute with more than one branches in Rome, has played a significant role in shaping Rome’s classical music education landscape and advancing its global reach. Dedicated to nurturing talent, the institute offers transformative opportunities for musicians of all levels, across a range of Western Classical instruments.

Masterclass: At the Corelli International Music Fest (CIMF), participants will engage in exclusive masterclasses led by distinguished Maestros from the Corelli Istituto. Each participant will receive five personalized one-on-one sessions with their respective mentor, culminating a solo recital that showcases their progress and artistry.

Special Session: Setting itself apart from other European masterclasses, the Corelli International Music Fest includes a specially curated session led by Maestro Alessandro Viale and Maestro Michael Rupam Makhal, tailored for Indian participants. These immersive sessions will cover key aspects of music appreciation, technique, classical music history, and other fundamental topics. Adding a unique experiential dimension, participants will visit iconic locations in Rome associated with legendary composers and musicians, deepening their understanding through live discussions and interactive lectures – an invaluable cultural highlight designed especially for young music students from India.

Instruments (and Voice) offered in the Masterclass: Piano, Harp, Violin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass, Classical Guitar, Flute, Clarinet, Horn, Saxophone, Opera Voice and more. (for Grade 4 and above music assessment level or similar playing standards and skills)

Certification: Each active participant will receive an official Certificate from the Corelli Istituto upon the successful completion of the masterclass.

Venue & Dates:

  • Location: Corelli Istituto, Rome, Italy
  • Dates: December 27, 2026 – January 3, 2027
  • Break Days: No sessions will be held on December 31st 2026 and January 1st 2027.
  • Session Allocation: Each student will be assigned a dedicated maestro based on their musical proficiency, as determined by the Corelli Istituto.
  • CIMF Recital Concert (Individual Performances): Each participant will be allotted a recital slot during the concert on January 2nd 2027, providing an opportunity to showcase their progress and dedication. This Recital is the main performance designed for the participants of the Corelli International Music Fest (CIMF). The parents and family members will be granted free entry to the event.
  • Corelli Istituto Ensemble Concert: The Corelli Instituto will select a few participants from the masterclass festival, particularly those specializing in orchestral instruments, to perform alongside the Corelli Istituto students’ ensemble in their annual Winter concert on January 3rd 2027. It’s good to note that, this concert is not a direct part of our Fest, it is the Corelli Institute’s yearly concert and not for everyone who will be participating in the masterclass. All the non-performing members, parents and family members will be granted free entry to the concert as an audience.

PARTICIPATION FEE

Participation Fee: The participation fee for the 2nd Corelli International Music Fest 2026-27 is Rs.1,25,000/- plus 18% GST, totalling Rs.1,47,500/- (One Lakh Forty-Seven Thousand and Five Hundred Rupees). This is a non-refundable fee.

What the Fee Covers:

  • Five Individual Masterclasses with a Maestro (one instrument/subject).
  • Two to Three Group Workshop & Outdoor Session with Maestro Viale and Maestro Makhal.
  • Public Transportation Ticket, allowing participants access to outdoor sessions with Maestro Viale and Maestro Makhal on the respective outdoor session day(s). This ticket can also be used for sightseeing via the metro and public buses.
  • Lunch – Italian delicacies like Pizza – veg & non-veg (ordered from café / pizzeria) during the masterclasses/sessions.
  • Final Recital (January 2nd 2027)—an individual solo performance for all active participants.
  • Visa-Related Document— the Invitation Letter will be provided to the active participants upon successful registration with full payment.
  • Practice & Rehearsal Spaces—access to individual practice areas at the institute.
  • Official Certificate issued by the Italian organization upon completion of the masterclass.

Not included in the Fee:

  • Accommodation & Food—participants must arrange their own full lodging and meals in Rome. Only packet lunch will be provided during the sessions.
  • Travel Costs—International and domestic flights, return tickets, visa fees, and airport transfers (taxi, van, bus, etc.) are not covered.
  • Entry Fees for monuments, museums, and additional attractions are not covered.
  • No Personal Chaperone Service—participants should be capable of traveling independently or be accompanied by guardians. We don’t have personal chaperone assistance. Parents must drop and pick up the minor participants at the venue every day.
  • Visa Assistance—we do not provide visa services. Participants must apply for their Schengen short-term visa via VFS India.
  • Medical – the participant must have travel insurance that covers full medical needs as per the requirement of the EU and Italy’s rules and regulations.

Festival Schedule: Masterclasses, Workshops & Rehearsals

December 27, 2026 (Sunday)

  • No individual masterclasses
  • Group Workshop / Outdoor Session (Maestro Viale & Maestro Makhal)
  • Individual Practice (Institute provided practice space)

December 28, 2026 (Monday)

  • Individual Masterclasses (All Instruments/Voice)
  • Group Workshop / Outdoor Session (Maestro Viale & Maestro Makhal)
  • Individual Practice (Institute provided practice space)

December 29, 2026 (Tuesday)

  • Individual Masterclasses (All Instruments/Voice)
  • Group Workshop / Outdoor Session (Maestro Viale & Maestro Makhal)
  • Individual Practice (Institute provided practice space)

December 30, 2026 (Wednesday)

  • Individual Masterclasses (All Instruments/Voice)
  • Individual Practice / Rehearsal (Institute provided practice space)

December 31, 2026 & January 1, 2027 (Thursday & Friday)

  • Official Off Days

January 2, 2027 (Saturday)

  • Individual Masterclasses (All Instruments/Voice)
  • Individual Practice / Rehearsal (Institute provided practice space)
  • CIMF Recital Concert (Solo performances by all the participants)

January 3, 2027 (Sunday)

  • Individual Masterclasses (All Instruments/Voice)
  • Individual Practice / Rehearsal (Institute provided practice space)
  • Corelli Istituto Ensemble Concert

Note: This schedule is tentative and subject to change if necessary. All recital and performance related decisions are made at the sole discretion of the Corelli Istituto.

Audition Information

Audition Piece:

Participants are allowed to choose to submit any Western Classical music piece(s) for the audition, which will adequately showcase their present performance standard and skills. One or a maximum of two pieces are allowed for the audition. The piece(s) must be a Western Classical piece only.

Participant Information:

Participant’s Name:

Participant’s Instrument/Discipline:

Participant’s DOB:

Participant’s Nationality (as per the Passport):

Participant’s City and Country:

Participant’s present Grade Exam level (if any):

Participant’s Achievements in Music (optional):

Participant’s Music Teacher’s Name:

Parents’ Name (if minor):

Participant’s/Parents’ Mobile Number:

Participant’s/Parents’ Email ID:

Participant’s/Parents’ Residential Address:

Submission: Participants are requested to send the audition recording by 10th June 2026 (extended). Please mention all the above details in the email along with the audition video link. The audition video must be sent to us via WeTransfer(dot)com to makhalsymphony@gmail.com

Audition Processing & Deposit Fee Policy: Rs.7,500/- (a deposit – a part of the full fee). This is a Non-refundable fee. This is not an additional fee for the auditions; the audition process is essentially free of cost. This is a deposit amount and part of the full fee – essentially an advance. This fee will be refunded to someone only who would not be selected in the audition. This deposit fee of Rs.7,500/- will not be refunded to anyone who will cancel their participation after a successful selection through the audition. Please audition only if you understand and fully adhere to this policy. Bank Transfer information is given below. Please attach the receipt with the audition submission email.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Registration: All selected participants must formally signup by paying the full participation fee by the deadline (will be informed with the audition result) to secure their place.

Accommodation & Food: Participants must arrange their own accommodation and meals in Rome, allowing flexibility in choosing preferred options. Only packet lunch will be provided by us to the participants during the sessions.

Visa Related Document: All the Active Participants will receive the Invitation Letter from the Italian organisation confirming the selection of the participants in the fest. The participants have to arrange all the other visa related documents, such as, accommodation proof on their own, and apply for the visa at VFS centres in India.

Audition: The applicant must pass a selection process conducted by Michael Makhal Symphony Orchestra (MMSO). Selection result will be announced shortly after receiving the audition video.

More Information | Terms & Conditions

Hire Musical Instrument: It’s possible to hire instruments like Cello and Double-Bass for the masterclass with extra charges.

Payment:

  • All the candidates are requested to pay the 100% full amount by the deadline (as per the deadline mentioned/updated/communicated in the proposal/email/message).
  • For International participants, the payment should be made in foreign currency (USD, GBP, and Euro), an equivalent to the price in INR will be charged, (additional transaction charges and relevant fees would be added).  

Cancellation & Refund:

  • The Participation Fee is Non-Refundable.
  • The full fee will be refunded only if the entire CIMF masterclass festival is cancelled.
  • The full fee will not be refunded for any other reason, which includes natural calamity, national/international political issues, epidemic, recession, riots, pandemic, and personal interpretation of the severity of any global and geopolitical crisis and conflict, and similar.
  • The full fee will not be refunded if the candidate’s Visa gets rejected, and if the candidate wants to be opted out for any reason after making the payment.

Selection:

  • Selection is completely depending on the audition and only the qualified candidates will be invited to the festival. This comes under the sole discretion of the organisers.

Rules, Terms & Conditions:

  • For having masterclasses in two instruments (subjects), 75% of the full fee-amount will be charged additionally for the second instrument (subject). 
  • MMSO or the Corelli Istituto do not offer any chaperone and personal care/ staff/ crew service in Italy for young students/ participants. The participant must be grownup / capable enough to be in the festival which will take place in Rome, Italy. Minor students are advised to be accompanied by the parents.
  • Parents are advised to travel with the participants, especially minor members, but it is important for the parents to maintain the ‘educational-space-decorum’ during the masterclasses and sessions. Parents are not expected to be in the institute where the masterclasses are going on, and let the participants be on their own so they can absorb the full experience of the festival.
  • If the payments are not paid within the given date(s), the position will be refused or passed on to someone else.
  • It is advised to apply for the Schengen Visa around 2-3 months before the flying date so the Visa gets approved on time and participants can get time to prepare for the Masterclass.
  • The participants (parents) have to arrange their own full lodging including food. Only packet lunch will be provided to the participants during the sessions.
  • We are not responsible for any Visa related service. It is widely known that VFS handles the Visa process for the Schengen Short-Term Visa in India. And, only authorized travel agencies are allowed to help visitors. We are not authorized to do that. We will only provide the ‘invitation letter’ from the Italian organisation. We won’t be able to assist with the Visa obtaining process. Please contact the Italian Consulate in India and VFS Italy for all the information. Please note: the participation fee (full amount) will not be refunded if any candidate fails to obtain the Visa.
  • The CIMF Recital Concert on January 2nd 2027 is the main concert designed for the participants of the Corelli International Music Fest 2026-27, and all the participants will be allotted a slot to perform a solo recital in the concert.
  • The Corelli Instituto Ensemble Concert is not a direct part of our Fest, it is the Corelli Institute’s yearly concert and not for everyone. It is in a manner of bonus, and an unconfirmed opening for a few selected ones. The Corelli Istituto will select a few participants from the masterclass festival, particularly those specializing in orchestral instruments, to perform alongside the Corelli Istituto students’ ensemble in their annual winter concert on January 3rd 2027. All the non-performing members from the festival, their parents and family members will be granted free entry to the concert as an audience.
  • All the participants must have their own Travel Insurance that would cover any medical needs. We will not be handling or covering any kind of medical emergency, expenses, and needs of the participants. Travel Insurance is a must for the Schengen visa application, and a requirement for Indian Travelers to travel EU countries.
  • The parent/adult candidate must sign the ‘Declaration Letter and Consent Letter’ (adhering, understanding, and agreeing to our terms and conditions) in order to participate in the Corelli International Music Fest 2026-27. A draft of this letter will be provided by us. Please note that failure to submit the signed Declaration and Consent Letter along with valid address proof and a copy of a photo ID may result in disqualification from the festival.
  • The instruments/disciplines are mentioned in the proposal are subject to finalisation after the audition process is completed. The addition and omission of any instrument/discipline from the masterclasses at any time, comes solely under the discretion of the organisers.
  • The finalisation of the Corelli International Music Fest 2026-27 is subject to the successful selection of a team of an adequate number of participants. Failing to select/obtain a minimum required number of participants for the fest will cause cancellation of the entire event. This decision comes solely under the discretion of the organisers.
  • Any change and update of the plan, schedule, and design (similar) regarding the Corelli International Music Fest 2026-27, comes solely under the discretion of the organisers.
  • The Corelli International Music Fest 2026-27 is subject to the development of the Coronavirus Pandemic Situation and also, Geopolitical conflicts and similar unpredictable matters. The program may get cancelled at the last moment because of a sudden lockdown domestically or internationally or any unforeseen issues. We will not be responsible for the cancellation in such situation and can’t be held responsible for the same. Please participate only if you understand and adhere to the terms & conditions fully with your best understanding.
  • We don’t share your contact information with unknown parties. The contact information is for internal usage and communication purposes. It could be shared only with associated parties. We will revert with further information if your submission meets the requirements.    

BANK TRANSFER INFORMATION

We accept payments only through Online Bank transfers. Our company’s Current Account details are as follows:

Bank Account Details  

Bank Name: Axis Bank Ltd.  

Branch Name: Tolichowki  

Account Name: Michael Makhal Symphony Orchestra Private Limited  

Account Type: Current Account  

Account Number:  918020058645082  

IFSC Code: UTIB0001628  

SWIFT Code: AXISINBB030  

MICR Code: 500211045  

SAC Code: 999631

Important Information: 

  • Once you make the payment, please email us a copy of the receipt.
  • Please share the billing name (parent or adult participant) and billing address for the invoice.
  • Please don’t transfer the amount by mistake to the personal account of Michael Rupam Makhal.

Note: Should you have any further queries, please feel free to contact my wife and our Program Director, Ms. Sudeshna Makhal, at +91 9000654447. In case we miss the call, please leave a WhatsApp message, and we will call you back.

Contact:

Sudeshna Makhal (Program Director)

Phone: +919000654447 (Preferably WhatsApp)

Email: makhalsymphony@gmail.com / team@makhalsymphony.in

CIMF Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CorelliInternationalMusicFest

CIMF Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/corelli_music_fest/

IEYO: https://indoeuropeanorchestra.com/

MAGICAL MOMENTS FROM CIMF ROME, ITALY 2025-26