Home → Strings Programme
6 June - 19 June, 2027 - Singapore
Application Opens: 1st September, 2026
Application Deadline: 15th January, 2027
Strings Programme
OVERVIEW
The Swan Festival offers an immersive programme dedicated to the study of solo, chamber music, and performance practice for violinists, violists, and cellists. Each biennial season, students from around the world come together in Singapore to engage in an intensive curriculum that includes private lessons, studio classes, ensemble coaching, and numerous performance opportunities.
As Singapore’s official working language, English will be used for all instruction, rehearsals, and communication. Applications will be processed through an online application platform, ensuring a streamlined and accessible admissions process for students worldwide.
NAFA and NAFA School of Young Talents students are especially encouraged to apply.
Audition Requirements
AUDITION VIDEOS
Please submit two contrasting works of any length that best represent your current playing level. Accompaniment is recommended but not required.
Videos must be unedited, recorded within the past year, and clearly show your hands and face. You may upload your recordings directly or share links via YouTube or Vimeo.
All auditions are conducted entirely via pre-recorded video to ensure accessibility for international applicants.
CHAMBER FELLOWSHIP
The Chamber Fellowship is a highly selective, full-tuition fellowship for outstanding young string players with exceptional musicianship and a strong commitment to collaborative performance. Fellows participate fully in the Strings Programme, with additional chamber music rehearsals and performances alongside Festival faculty and guest artists.
Applications to the Instrumental Programme and Strings Fellowship Programme are submitted separately and have distinct requirements. Learn more.
APPLICATION DEADLINE
Applications must be received by 15 January 2027 for priority consideration for admission and scholarship funding.
After this date, applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis only as space permits. Applicants are strongly encouraged to apply before the deadline, as available places and financial assistance are very limited once the priority deadline has passed.
Application Instructions
The following information is provided to help you prepare your materials before starting your application.
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Date of Birth and Age
Country of Citizenship
Gender
Instrument
Current Teacher
Current or Most Recent School (please indicate year level)
Previous Summer Programmes Attended
Chamber Music Experience and Recent Repertoire
How did you hear about the Swan Festival?
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Students are accepted into a specific faculty member’s studio for the duration of their session. Your assigned studio teacher will be your primary instructor throughout the two-week programme, providing lessons, guidance, and mentorship.
When indicating your first and second choice faculty members, please be aware that admission decisions are made by the faculty, and placement in a particular studio is subject to availability and the discretion of the instructors.
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To apply for financial assistance, you will be required to provide information about your household’s financial circumstances. This information helps us assess demonstrated need consistently for both local and international applicants.
Applicants should be prepared to submit the following details:
Parent/guardian annual income
Student annual income
Number of dependants supported by the household
Annual tuition fees at your current school
Annual financial assistance currently received (scholarships, grants, loans)
A copy of your most recent tax return or official proof of income, such as an IRAS Notice of Assessment or an employer-issued income statement
A brief statement explaining any special circumstances affecting your current financial situation
For applicants outside Singapore, such as those based in the United States, this documentation would typically be an IRS tax return or an equivalent official record.
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Residential Mentors play an important role in supporting students staying in festival-arranged accommodation. In recognition of their contributions, mentors will receive a full scholarship covering tuition, room, and board.
Key Responsibilities and Expectations:
Commit to attending the full programme
Be at least 20 years of age
Serve on-call on a rotating basis to assist students as required
Uphold programme guidelines and help maintain a safe, respectful environment
Conduct regular check-ins and group meetings
Plan and lead social activities and outings
Provide information on Singapore’s customs, transport options, and local services
Arrive prior to the programme for orientation and training (specific dates will be provided)
Preference will be given to applicants with strong leadership experience and familiarity with Singapore.
Application Instructions:
To be considered for a Residential Mentor role, please include the following with your application:A brief statement outlining your interest in serving as a Residential Mentor
A CV or résumé detailing relevant experience, such as student leadership, mentoring, or event coordination
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Please submit two contrasting works of any length that showcase your current playing level. While accompaniment is recommended, it is not mandatory.
Videos must have been recorded within the past year. You may upload your recordings directly or share links via YouTube or Vimeo. -
Applicants are required to submit one letter of recommendation as part of the application process. This letter should be written by a teacher or mentor who is familiar with your musical abilities, work ethic, and character.
Ideally, the recommendation should be provided by your current or most recent primary instrument teacher.
The letter should be submitted directly through the online application platform. If your referee is unable to upload the letter online, it may be emailed to the festival administration office.
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To complete your application, please ensure the non-refundable application fee of SGD 150 has been paid.
Application fees are waived for students currently enrolled at NAFA and at NAFA School of Young Talents. To request a waiver, please contact us.
If you are unable to afford the application fee due to financial circumstances, you are encouraged to contact us to discuss alternative arrangements.
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After submission, you can expect to receive your results in mid February or early March. Applications received by 15 January 2027 will receive priority consideration for admission and scholarship funding.
After this date, applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis as space permits. Applicants are strongly encouraged to apply early, as available places and financial assistance are very limited once the priority deadline has passed.