Colburn Tonebase Piano Seminar

 

This groundbreaking partnership between the Colburn School and tonebase piano—renowned for its cutting-edge online music education—blends artistry and innovation to deliver an unmatched musical journey. With tonebase’s technology connecting you to artists all across the world, and the Colburn School’s state-of-the-art facilities, you’ll enjoy exceptional instruction, world-class pianos, and inspiring venues like never before. This two-week intensive is the ultimate summer destination for young, aspiring pianists at the iconic Colburn School campus in downtown Los Angeles. Elevate your playing to new heights in this unique fusion of tradition and modernity!

The Colburn-tonebase Piano Seminar is intended for students 13 and older. Younger students will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Why Choose the 2026 Colburn-tonebase Piano Seminar?

Experience a close-knit, supportive community where students and teachers interact daily in classes, and at lunchtime, fostering a family-like atmosphere. All lessons and classes are open to every seminar participant, ensuring a collaborative and enriching learning environment for all.  

  • First-class instruction: Four 50-minute private lessons from stellar Colburn faculty 
  • Guest master classes (both in-person and streamed via tonebase) with world-class pianists and educators 
  • Attend special classes including: 
  • Weekly Studio Classes 
  • Movement Classes 
  • Period Instrument Workshop 
  • Presentation by Colburn’s Director of Piano Technology 
  • Faculty Special Topic Panel Discussions 
  • Ample practice time built into the schedule 
  • Performance in the final seminar recital 
  • Steinway Competition: Compete for a $1,000 cash prize and a tonebase lifetime membership 
  • Colburn’s campus is steps away from legendary landmarks like the Walt Disney Concert Hall, The Broad Museum, and MOCA. Enjoy dining options at the Colburn Cafe, Little Tokyo, and more.

Program Overview

Schedule
June 16–27*, 2026
*Move-out for residential students will take place on June 28, 2026.

Age Range
13–18 years

Faculty
Micah Yui, Co-Director
Dominic Cheli, Co-Director
Fabio Bidini, Artistic Advisor
Additional faculty TBD

Student Requirements
The Colburn-tonebase Piano Seminar is open to advanced high school students.   

Tuition and Fees

  • Non-refundable application fee: $50
  • Early bird tuition: $2,300*
  • Regular tuition: $2,600

*Apply on or before January 15, 2026

Residential Fees (Optional)

  • Single occupancy room: $1,380
  • Meal plan: $500

All students staying in the dorms are required to purchase a meal plan. Meal plan funds are non-refundable and must be used in the Colburn Cafe.

Note: Room and board are only available for students ages 15 and above. Parents/guardians may not stay in the dorms.

How to Apply

All applicants must submit a complete application online.

Audition Requirements
Submit a high-quality audition video of the requirements listed below.

  • Introduce yourself (name, age, where you are from, and why you want to attend the piano seminar)  
  • One movement of a classical sonata  
  • Two contrasting pieces of your choice 
  • Videos do not need to be made professionally but must have a clear picture and good sound quality. The full profile and hands must be clearly shown.
  • Applicants must introduce themselves with full name, age, and their goals if accepted into the seminar.
  • Your submissions must be in video format. Audio-only submissions will not be accepted.

Apply Now

Contact Us

Please email the Community School office at cspa@colburnschool.edu if you have any questions.

Summer Music Camps