Bellissima Music Festival in Wiks folkhögskola, Sweden

July 28 - August 8, 2020

How do I apply? You need to fill in the on-line application form, following the instructions. When the application deadline has passed, your application will be considered should we have space available.

Where I will be staying? Participants live in student housing located at the Wik Castle complex. Parents and teachers will be staying at the Wik Hotel. All facilities are within short waking distance. Students receive 3 meals daily. 

Can I choose my roommates? We will try to comply with all requests. Rooms will be assigned in early July.

When should I arrive in Wik? Which airport do I need to arrive at? When is departure? Arrival date is July 28, 2020. Please keep in mind that flights from North and South America leave the day before. Plan to arrive at Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN). Transatlantic flights arrive in the morning. We will plan to have a transportation Wik around noon. Departure day is August 8, 2020. There will be transportation to Arlanda on that day.

Will I have the opportunity to perform in public? Student concerts take place in the evenings. Performers are chosen on the strength of their audition recording. Effort is made to give everyone an opportunity to perform, if possible. Students preparing for competitions are given priority. All public performances must be approved by the teacher.

Will there be “free days”? In music there are no “free days”, however, there will be days when we take trips to surrounding area sights for performances or recreation.

Is internet connection available?  Yes internet is available in Wik. Details will be given at check in.

Where will we eat? All accepted students are provided and passive participants will receive three meals daily.

Can I stay longer in Wik? Students arriving earlier or departing later can stay in Wik at additional cost. Please contact us directly after acceptance.

Will I have the opportunity to study chamber music? Every student who elects to do chamber music will be assigned a group and repertoire. You may submit a chamber music request and we will do what we can to accommodate. Groups will be formed on the basis of the audition recordings and the repertoire requested. Everyone will be given of their assignments ahead of time and is expected to arrive in Wik with their parts learned and ready for rehearsing on the first day. Students are responsible for supplying their parts and scores. Sheet music is not available in Wik.

How many lessons do I get? Each student will receive a minimum of 4 hours lessons during the festival in addition to chamber music coaching and other classes.

Are pianos available for practicing? There are pianos available at Wik and more can be rented if needed.

Are collaborative pianists available for rehearsals, lessons and performances? We have several professional pianists available to play and work with you. It is important to submit selected repertoire ahead of the festival and in coordination with your teacher.

Are practice facilities available for the string players and singers? There are practice rooms available. Students rooms can be used as practice spaces as well.

What about music stands? Everybody must bring a folding stand (except piano students).

What do we do if there are problems with the instruments? If problems arise with instruments, there are music shops in Uppsala where consultation and repairs can be done.

How many students attend the Festival? About 25 students will be selected.

Is there an age limit? There is no age limit. However we do require that students under the age of 14 should be accompanied by an adult, as we do not provide supervision.

What if I need a letter of invitation for my visa? Students who need a letter of invitation to apply for a visa at the Swedish embassy in their country will need a letter from Wiks folkhögskola. We will send you one after acceptance. Please allow enough time to apply for a visa.

When should my passport expire? United States requires that your passport is valid 6 months after you complete your trip. Please check expiration dates and regulations carefully.

What clothes should I bring? Sweden is a Nordic country where summers are warm but usually not extremely hot. Please check weather forecast before arriving. For evening concerts, light dress clothes are required, no shorts or jeans. Performers: women wear long dresses, men black pants and white shirts.

Should I bring my own bed sheets, pillows and towels? No, you should not. Sheets and towels will be provided.

What about mosquitos? We suggest people with sensitive skin to bring a repellent and medication against bites.

Is there a laundry facility?  Information will be available at check in.

Can I withdraw money in Wik? Major credit cards are accepted at Wik and throughout Sweden. ATMs are available at the airport and in the city.

Can I stay with family or friends? Students are encouraged to stay in the student dormitory housing while parents and teachers will be housed at the hotel. Younger students can stay with parents in hotel accommodation.