Applications are now open for the Rome Chamber Music Festival (RCMF) Emerging Performer Programs, offering young musicians the opportunity to study, rehearse and perform alongside internationally recognised artists in the heart of Rome.
Founded in 2003 by violinist Robert McDuffie, the Festival has established itself as a distinctive presence in the international chamber music calendar. Since 2022, RCMF has been based at the historic Teatro Argentina, one of Rome’s most prestigious venues. The next Festival season will take place from 18 to 21 June 2026, with rehearsals beginning two days earlier.
Alongside its public concert series, the Festival runs two highly regarded Emerging Performer Programs, designed to support and mentor the next generation of professional musicians. Since their launch in 2007, these programmes have welcomed more than 300 young performers from over 20 countries, offering close artistic collaboration with leading international musicians.
Instruments and eligibility
For the 2026 edition, applications are open to musicians playing violin, viola, cello, double bass, flute and clarinet. All selected participants must be available to begin rehearsals in Rome on 16 June 2026.
The programmes are aimed at advanced students and early-career professionals, and are structured to provide both high-level artistic training and valuable performance experience within a major international festival setting.
De Simone Young Artist Program
The De Simone Young Artist Program is open to performers aged 18 to 24 and offers an intensive introduction to professional chamber music performance. Selected participants rehearse and perform alongside the Festival’s guest artists, gaining first-hand experience of high-level ensemble work.
Selection procedures vary by region. American applicants are chosen through live auditions held at the Robert McDuffie Center for Strings at Mercer University, while European and Asian candidates are selected through video auditions and evaluation.
Participation in the programme is free of charge. The Festival provides accommodation, upon request, in shared double rooms at a hotel selected by RCMF, as well as a travel reimbursement of up to €250 (or equivalent) for standard-class travel within Europe, or up to USD $750 (or equivalent) for standard-class flights from other continents.
Steven Della Rocca Young Professional Program
The Steven Della Rocca Young Professional Program is designed for musicians aged 25 to 29 who are transitioning into fully professional performing careers. Conceived as an immersive, career-focused experience, the programme combines advanced chamber music performance with mentoring, masterclasses and exposure to audiences and industry professionals.
Participants receive an honorarium of USD $1,000 / €800 (gross), accommodation in single rooms at a Festival-selected hotel (upon request), and a travel allowance. The programme aims not only to refine artistic skills, but also to support participants in building sustainable professional careers.
An international platform in Rome
With its blend of historic setting, international faculty and collaborative ethos, the Rome Chamber Music Festival offers emerging artists a rare opportunity to engage deeply with chamber music at the highest level. The Festival’s commitment to education and mentorship continues to play a central role in its mission, complementing its public performances and reinforcing its reputation as a meeting point for established artists and rising talent.
Further details about the Festival and application procedures for both programmes are available through the official RCMF website.
— The Violin Post Editorial Staff
