Chamber Music Retreat in the Heart of Tuscany
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Castello di Gargonza is a 13th-century medieval village located in the Chianti region with stunning views of the Tuscan countryside. Surrounded by lush forests, the hilltop village retains its massive fortification walls, 13th-century stone archway gate, and a 14th-century Romanesque church complete with bell tower! From the small central piazza, narrow stone alleys are lined with medieval houses and geraniums cascade out from arcaded balconies. The beautifully restored buildings maintain the integrity of the original structures with locally crafted additions, such as Tuscan red tile floors and ceiling beams hewn from nearby chestnut trees.
The most historical event during Gargonza’s history was the arrival in 1302 of Dante Alighieri, who sought refuge here after his exile from Florence. A plaque over the archway was erected in 1922 in honor of his residence. The most compelling story of the village’s history, however, takes place in our time. After World War II, villagers left Gargonza to seek life elsewhere and by 1970 only a few people were left. It was the vision of Count Roberto Guicciardini Corsi Salviati that saved the village from the brink of ruin by investing in its preservation, creating a living history for visitors who shared his passion. Gargonza is once again a vital entity on the Tuscan landscape. |
Join us for an inspiring week
of chamber music! April 28 - May 5, 2024 REGISTRATION OPENS IN SEPTEMBER! 
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WORKSHOP ACTIVITIES
Pre-assigned work: Brahms String Quartet in C minor, Op. 51 No. 1
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DAILY COACHING BY MEMBERS OF OUR SUPERB FACULTY
Our faculty is comprised of outstanding performing artists who combine concert careers as chamber players with a dedication to teaching. They are passionate about sharing their expertise in an encouraging and supportive manner to help you achieve your individual musical goals.
The program also includes a MASTERCLASS focusing on topics to improve your skill level and refine your understanding for playing chamber music.
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You'll also have the opportunity to schedule private lessons
with our faculty members! |
Garden at Castello di Gargonza
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RELAX, RECHARGE, and IMMERSE YOURSELF IN CHAMBER MUSIC
Take a walk in the surrounding forest - there are four marked walking trails of varying distance and difficulty. Relax in the peaceful garden near the limonaia (lemon conservatory). Or simply sit back and enjoy the stunning views over the Chiana Valley. There will also be plenty of time for freelance playing. |
Piazza del Campo, Siena
Dievole winery
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EXCURSION TO SIENA WITH TOUR OF DIEVOLE WINERY
Siena is Italy's best-preserved medieval city and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Known worldwide for the famous Palio horse race that is run here every summer, the city is situated over three hills with its heart at the huge Piazza del Campo, where the Roman Forum used to be. The historic center is an endlessly fascinating place to stroll amidst the narrow-cobbled streets and to visit landmarks such as the Siena Cathedral, the bastions of the Fortezza Medicea, art-filled churches, and various museums. You'll have the option to explore Siena on your own or to join our private tour with a local guide. We'll have lunch at Dievole, a 900-year old wine estate that has been producing Chianti Classico since 1090, followed by a tour of the vineyards and the winery. The long cypress-lined avenue leading to the estate is simply enchanting! |
PARTICIPATE IN SMALL-GROUP ACTIVITIES
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Go eBiking in the Tuscan Countryside
Enjoy an afternoon traveling along country roads and discovering some of the most beautiful corners of Tuscany. With medieval walled towns surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, the Chianti countryside offers spectacular vistas of classic vineyards, picturesque hilltop villages, and unforgettable views over emerald green hills. |
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The History of Gargonza - A Walking Tour of the Village
The hamlet of Gargonza has been in the hands of the Guicciardini family since the late 1600s when Marquis Corsi, ancestor of the current owner, gained control and transformed Gargonza into an agricultural estate. The agricultural period ended immediately after WWII with the termination of sharecropping, causing a general exodus. Gargonza remained nearly uninhabited and in decline. In the 1970's, the count Roberto Guicciardini Corsi Salviati started the restoration of the village, aiming to preserve the ancient architecture and to maintain the authenticity of its former inhabitants. On this tour, we’ll learn about the history and restoration of Gargonza from a member of the Guicciardini family. |
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Cooking Class
Tuscan cuisine is among Italy’s best regional food and taking a cooking class is a great way to become acquainted with the region’s specialties. Learn to prepare them in a hands-on class with the chef from La Torre di Gargonza restaurant and you'll be able to enjoy Tuscan cuisine even when you’re back at home! |
GUEST & SPOUSE TOURS
While musician participants are engaged in chamber music coaching sessions, non-playing guests and spouses may take advantage of informally organized activities and tours to explore and discover the culture and cuisine of Tuscany. The cost of these tours and activities is included in the registration fee for guests and spouses.
"Legend of the True Cross", Piero della Francesca
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Full-day excursion to Arezzo: "On the Trail of Piero della Francesca"
Piero della Francesca is without doubt one of the greatest Italian painters of the 15th century: his spacious painting, monumental yet rational, is one of the most highly regarded points of the Renaissance artistic ideals. We'll start our day in Sansepolcro, where della Francesca was born c. 1412. The Civic Museum now houses four of his splendid works of art: the Polyptych of Mercy and the frescoes of The Resurrection, San Giuliano and San Ludovico. We'll continue on to the town of Monterchi to admire an extraordinary fresco of the Madonna del Parto from the ancient church of Santa Maria di Momentana. After lunch, we'll spend the afternoon in Arezzo visiting all of the key sights, including the Basilica of San Francesco to view della Francesca's monumental fresco cycle The Legend of the True Cross. |
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All About Olive Oil
The village of Gargonza is surrounded by a property of 1100 acres, 18 of which are cultivated with olives. We’ll learn about olive varieties, from a master sommelier of olive oil and have the opportunity to taste a variety of oils from all over Italy. |
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Visit to the Historic Cisternone in Monte San Savino
The "Cisternone" is an 500-year-old water cistern located under the roof garden of the Palazzo di Monte that was built between the end of the 16th century. Recently restored and now open to the public, it is one of the largest water deposits in Tuscany, second only to those in Livorno. Once it collected water for the community and today is used to irrigate the roof garden above. |
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Pecorino Cheese Tasting
Pecorino cheese is produced from 100% whole sheep's milk and is a culinary delight which has been gracing tables since the Etruscans. Educate your palate and enjoy the local cuisine! You’ll find that Tuscan pecorino cheese is milder and less salty than the sharper, aged pecorino romano you might be used to. |
REGISTRATION OPENS IN SEPTEMBER!
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