Announcing the Release of MET Orchestra Masterclass Recordings

Lessonface is excited to announce the release of recorded masterclasses with MET Orchestra Musicians, offering music enthusiasts and aspiring professionals a rare opportunity to learn from some of the world’s most celebrated musicians—free of charge.

Since the program’s launch in August 2020, these masterclasses have connected musicians around the globe. To date, Lessonface has hosted 33 free online masterclasses featuring 55 MET Orchestra musicians, coaching over 80 performers from the United States, Puerto Rico, Canada, and 10 countries in Latin America, Europe, and Asia.

The MET Orchestra, founded in 1883, is renowned not only for its stellar performances with the MET Opera, but also for its symphonic and chamber music programs at Carnegie Hall, international tours, and numerous outreach initiatives. Through their collaboration with Lessonface, the MET Orchestra Musicians continue to extend their legacy, reaching new audiences with online masterclasses and more.

These recorded masterclasses are free to watch and provide valuable insights into the artistry and techniques of MET Orchestra Musicians. Each session showcases performances, interactive coaching of up-and-coming musicians, and discussions, offering something for musicians of all levels and classical music fans alike.

→ Enroll now to watch the recordings of your choice.

→ We will also be releasing sessions one at a time to our YouTube channel, every Thursday beginning January 9, 2025.

What Is a Music Masterclass?

A music masterclass is an interactive educational experience where musicians perform for an expert in their field, who then provides real-time feedback, advice, and insights. These classes are especially prevalent in the world of classical music, where mentorship and performance critique are integral to training and professional development.

The performers in community masterclasses, such as those offered by the MET Orchestra at Lessonface, are typically advanced-level music students or early-career professionals who prepare a specific piece to perform. Participants are often selected through an application or audition process, ensuring they are ready to engage with high-level coaching. In an orchestra masterclass, for instance, a violinist, flutist, or other instrumentalist might perform a solo or orchestral excerpt, receiving tailored guidance from a seasoned musician or educator.

The expert leading the masterclass—often a world-class performer or teacher—analyzes the performance and provides constructive critiques on technique, interpretation, and artistry. For example, they might demonstrate a more effective way to execute a pivotal passage or suggest varying phrasing and articulation to express a particular emotion or mood more vividly. This process may involve adjustments to dynamics, tempo, or note emphasis, highlighting subtleties in the music that can deepen the performer’s connection to the piece.

Technical challenges are often addressed as well, with the expert offering advice on improving tone quality, intonation, or finger placement. These insights not only help the performer overcome immediate obstacles but also equip them with strategies applicable to future pieces. Beyond technical precision, the expert may explore the historical or stylistic context of the music, guiding the performer to make interpretation choices that align with the composer’s intent or the performance traditions of the era.

In this way, the masterclass is more than just a lesson on playing a particular piece. It provides performers with invaluable tools and perspectives to refine their overall musicianship. Audience members also benefit from the expert’s insights: student musicians can apply these lessons to their own practice; educators can expand their teaching techniques; and classical music enthusiasts gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry and complexity of performance.

Music masterclasses offer a rare and inspiring glimpse into the intersection of education and performance, making them a powerful experience for participants and observers alike.

Upcoming Live MET Orchestra Masterclasses

Looking for a live experience? The 2024-25 season continues with two upcoming sessions:

• March 30, 2025: Associate Concertmaster Nancy Wu (Violin)
• May 4, 2025: Principal Bassoon Evan Epifanio

Both events are free to watch and will be streamed live via Zoom. Audience members can submit questions for the musicians in real-time.

→ Sign up here to watch live sessions.

Apply to Perform in a MET Orchestra Masterclass

Advanced-level musicians can apply now for the opportunity to perform in one of these live masterclasses. Successful applicants will receive one-on-one coaching from MET Orchestra artists on public domain repertoire.

Application deadlines are four weeks before each masterclass date. There are no application or participation fees, making this a unique chance to grow as a performer and connect with world-class mentors.

→ Apply to perform here.

Join the Lessonface Community

These masterclasses—both live and recorded—showcase the power of music to transcend geographical boundaries and bring together musicians and audiences from around the world. Whether you’re a seasoned performer, an aspiring musician, or a classical music aficionado, Lessonface and the MET Orchestra Musicians invite you to be part of this unique program, offering unparalleled access to exceptional artistry, entirely free of charge.

→ Learn more and explore all opportunities here.