There are many other factors that make Oberlin in Casalmaggiore special. One is the spirit of co-operation not often seen in the highly competitive world of music. Yoon-Sun Choi, an Oberlin student who attended two years ago, recalls the feeling of team work that pervaded the festival. Casalmaggiore is a lovely city nestled in the center of the musical triangle of Stradivarius, Verdi and Monteverdi. The Oberlin in Casalmaggiore program, which attracted 88 students from 11 countries, takes place in magnificently restored 17th and 18th century buildings, including a classical Italian-style opera house, two concert halls, numerous practice and teaching studios and modernized living quarters.
Participants live in a former convent.
The beautiful Italian location and people also set Casalmaggiore apart. Students have the opportunity to perform in wonderfully restored opera houses, halls and churches, and can visit the many great cities nearby. Biber is slated to perform at the marathon. She loved the support of the audience and the boost it gave her to feel so appreciated. But we can't forget it.