Summer 2026 Program
Program Overview
In summer 2026, Orchestra Tikvah will be an intensive chamber music program for 20 Jewish string students in 7th to 12th grade. Over the course of one week, students will participate in rehearsals, sectionals, and coaching sessions at Congregation Sherith Israel, while also building community through shared meals and housing nearby.
The program will culminate in three public performances featuring repertoire by Jewish composers who integrated their heritage into their creative work. Two concerts will be community-oriented, while the final gala performance will take place on Sunday, August 2, 2026, at Congregation Sherith Israel.
Program Dates
July 26 – August 2, 2026
All rehearsals, sectionals, and practice time will take place at Congregation Sherith Israel. Students will gather for meals in the social hall and stay at a nearby hotel.
What Students Will Experience
- Musical Excellence: Daily rehearsals, sectionals, and coaching sessions on works by Jewish composers.
- Community Building: Shared meals, Shabbat observance, and friendships with peers who share a passion for both music and Judaism.
- Cultural Engagement: Performances for diverse audiences in the Nashville community.
- Jewish Identity: Optional daily prayer, Shabbat celebrations, text study, and a week grounded in Jewish values.
Audition Information
Eligibility
Orchestra Tikvah is open to Jewish string students entering grades 7–12 in Fall 2026.
Audition Requirements
- Video audition of two contrasting pieces
- Letter of recommendation from a teacher
- Short essay on how Judaism informs their artistry
What We’re Looking For
Students committed to musical excellence with prior orchestral or chamber experience. Participants should be prepared for intensive rehearsals and challenging repertoire.
Application Deadline
The application deadline will be announced soon. Please check back or contact us for updates.
Tuition & Scholarships
All students will receive a full scholarship which includes room and board. Students are responsible for their travel to and from Nashville and any fees associated with transporting instruments.
Program Schedule
Sunday, July 26
- 4:00 PM – Arrival and check-in
- 5:00 PM – Orientation and welcome
- 7:30 PM – Opening rehearsal
Monday, July 27 – Wednesday, July 29
- 6:30 AM – Shacharit (optional)
- 9:00 AM – Morning Rehearsal
- 11:00 AM – Sectionals and practice time
- 5:30 PM – Dinner
- 7:00 PM – Mincha & Maariv
Thursday, July 30
Community Concert #1 — 12:00 PM (Location: TBA)
Friday, July 31
Community Concert #2 — 12:00 PM (Location: TBA)
Saturday, August 1
Shabbat rest, text study, and evening Havdalah concert preview.
Sunday, August 2
Gala Concert — 3:00 PM at Congregation Sherith Israel (Reception to follow)
Location
Congregation Sherith Israel
3600 West End Avenue
Nashville, TN 37205