Accepting applications 日 中 English Camp
Inspiration Summer Piano Festival 2026
About
24 Aug 2026 to 28 Aug
Hibarigaoka, Nishitokyo City, Tokyo
About the Inspiration Summer Piano Festival
The Inspiration Summer Piano Festival is a summer piano camp for students aged 13 to 22. It aims to foster musical excellence, English understanding, and character development.
Participants receive piano instruction from an American master pianist and Stanford University piano lecturer, gaining access to high-level training through private lessons, masterclasses, and performance opportunities. The program also includes English instruction provided by an American instructor who holds a doctorate from Stanford University, enabling students to hone their communication skills, critical thinking abilities, and academic English proficiency.
In addition to music, this festival offers students the opportunity to encounter the Christian faith and encourages them to reflect deeply on life's purpose, values, and inspiration through music. Inspiration Summer Piano Festival aims not only to cultivate accomplished pianists but also to nurture well-rounded individuals grounded in artistry, intellect, and faith.
World-class piano instruction
Be encouraged and inspired
Introducing the Teachers
Name: Sandra Wright Shen
Position 1: Piano Lecturer at Stanford University
Position 2: Piano Chair, San Francisco Conservatory of Music Pre-College
Award 1: Steinway Artist
Award 2: First Prize, France Intl Piano Competition
Nationality: USA
Video: https://tinyurl.com/bdfb3pck
Name: Tammy Junker
School: Stanford University
Nationality: USA
Role: English teacher, translator
Languages: English, Japanese
Name: Raymond Shen, PhD
School: Stanford University
Nationality: USA
Role : English Teacher
Schedule
This schedule is subject to change depending on the number of students and their proficiency levels.
| Mo | Tu | Wed | Th | Fr | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9:00-9:50 | 🎹Technique Class | Rhythm Class | Ear Training | Conducting Class | Performance Anxiety Class |
| 9:50-10:00 | Break | ||||
| 10:00-10:50 | Masterclass | ||||
| 10:50-11:00 | Break | ||||
| 11:00-11:50 | 🎹Private lesson/Practice/English class | ||||
| 11:50-12:50 | Lunch | ||||
| 12:50-13:00 | Announcements | ||||
| 13:00-13:50 | 🎹Private lesson/Practice/English class | ||||
| 13:50-14:00 | Break | ||||
| 14:00-14:50 | 🎹Private lesson/Practice/English class | ||||
| 14:50-15:00 | Break | ||||
| 15:00-15:50 | Bach's Inspiration | Beethoven's Inspiration | Mozart's Inspiration | Mendelssohn's Inspiratione | Liszt's Inspiration |
| 15:50-16:00 | Break | ||||
| 16:00-16:50 | 🎹Private lesson/Practice/English class | ||||
| 16:50-17:00 | Break | ||||
| 17:00-17:50 | Rehearsal | ||||
| 17:50-19:00 | Dinner | ||||
| 19:00-21:00 | Recital | ||||
Facilities
Main sanctuary with grand piano
Piano in the sanctuary
Exterior of the church
Tuition
Please feel free to consult us regarding costs. We also offer scholarships, so please do not hesitate to contact us if you are interested.
Breakfast, dinner and Lodging
Includes:
100,000Yen
- 3 meals per day
- Bed and bedding
- Social gatherings and special programs for those staying overnight
- Teachers and staff will be on-site 24 hours a day throughout the stay to ensure your child's safety and well-being.
FAQ
Q: What are the application requirements?
A: Please provide a link to a video of the student performing two contrasting classical piano pieces from memory.
Q: How many hours of piano instruction will each student have?
A: There is a one-hour masterclass every day that all students attend. In addition, each student receives a 50-minute one-on-one instruction session.
Q: What meals are provided?
A: The standard fee includes daily lunch. Dinner on Friday included. For those staying at the church, breakfast and dinner are also provided daily.
Q: In which language will the camp be conducted?
A: The instructors will speak in English. We understand that not all students may be fluent in English, so we will provide interpreters whenever possible. Our goal is for this to serve as a learning opportunity for the students.
Q: What piano proficiency level is required?
A: To get the most out of Professor Sandra Shen's instruction, we recommend an intermediate level or higher. If you are unsure about your level, please send us a link to a video of your playing so we can review it.
Q: Why do you teach about music and the Bible?
A: Much of Western classical music is rooted in the Christian faith. Many composers were inspired by their Christian beliefs, and understanding how the Bible influenced their music is enlightening.