If your query is not answered by the responses below, please don’t hesitate to email us at issigeacima@gmail.com.

Prior to the course we also establish a Whatsapp Group for students and you can use this group to share any questions you might have about any aspect of the course.

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REGISTRATION & FINANCIAL FEES 

How do I apply?  If you are applying for the Choral Course the booking link is on the Choral Course page. If you are applying for the Masterclass Course, you need to forward a CV and current video of you singing, for Nelly's approval, by email to issigeacima@gmail.com. 

What is the minimum age of students? The minimum age is 18 for all IIMA Courses – there is no maximum age.

What is included in the fees? For the Masterclass Course the fees cover all course tuition, accommodation, breakfast and an evening meal and transport to and from your accommodation to rehearsals and performances.  For the Choral Course

​the fees cover course tuition.

What is not included in the fees? Fees do not cover transport costs to and from Bergerac Airport or Bergerac Train Station (the recommended destinations closest to Issigeac).  You need to bring your own music, details for which you will be sent in advance. Music stands are provided.

When and how can I pay for the Master Class? Once you are accepted on the Masterclass Course you will be asked to pay a deposit to secure your place. The balance is required one month prior to the course commencing. 

When and how can I pay for the Choral Course? To secure a place the full fee is required at the time of booking. 

Attendance. All students are required to arrive before the welcome session of their course and are required to stay until after the final concert. 

 

TRAVELLING TO ISSIGEAC

What is the best way to travel to and from Bergerac? There are regular international flights into Bergerac Airport which is a twenty-minute drive from Issigeac. There are also regular trains from Bordeaux to Bergerac. Links to transport sites are available on the CONTACTS page.

What is the best way to travel to and from Issigeac ?  Students on the Choral Course will need to organise their own transport to get to Issigeac, either travelling by car or hiring a car at Bergerac Airport. Masterclass students will be collected from Bergerac airport/station (ONLY) and driven to your accommodation in Issigeac.  There are very few taxis available in this area. Car hire info is on the CONTACTS page.

Where should I go upon arrival? Details of where you are expected on arrival will be sent to you as part of your Welcome Pack.

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ACCOMMODATION

What types of accommodation are available? We have several highly rated accommodation partners, but most of the accommodations are gîtes or shared holiday villas. Most students will be in shared rooms. 

Is there WIFI available? Yes

Is there anything I should bring with me for my stay? It can be cold at night in France, especially in the spring, so if you are affected by the cold, warm nightwear is advised. 

May I practice in my accommodation? Yes, most students practice in their own rooms or shared spaces. 

 

EVERYDAY LIFE

Do I need a car in Issigeac? A car is not essential, especially for Masterclass students, but public transport is extremely limited in this part of France and taxis almost non-existent. So, if you would like to see more of the area when you’re not studying, hiring a car will help you do this. 

What is the weather like in Issigeac? The weather in Issigeac in the Spring is best described as unpredictable. Some years we have had glorious sunshine and in others storms and rain showers – sometimes both in the same day. So best to be prepared and bring everything from a swimsuit to weatherproofs. The performance spaces can also be cold, especially the churches, so plenty of layering is advised. 

What else would you recommend I bring with me? Mosquito lotion is always a good idea. For clothing see above.

Where do students eat lunch? What time is lunch? Where you have lunch will depend upon the rehearsal schedule, but most students have their lunch in the rehearsal studios - or outside if the weather permits.

What are the arrangements for other meals? For Masterclass Students a continental breakfast and an evening meal are provided by Domaine du Jurmilhac, our accommodation partner. If you have any allergies or dietary requirements, please let us know in advance.