Why & How?
A meeting point for reflection, artistry, and string pedagogy.
The 55th International ESTA Conference in Ljubljana brings together the international string community in one of Central Europe’s most vibrant cultural capitals.
Hosted at the Academy of Music, the conference will offer lectures, workshops, artistic presentations, concerts, discussions, research sessions, and opportunities for meaningful exchange among teachers, performers, scholars, and students.
With the theme Why & How?, the conference invites participants to explore both the deeper reasons behind artistic and pedagogical practice and the concrete ways these ideas are brought to life in teaching, performing, learning, and collaboration.
At a glance
Five days of international exchange, artistic inspiration, professional dialogue, and new perspectives on the present and future of string education.
Why & How?
Why do we teach?
Exploring meaning, values, artistic purpose, motivation, identity, and the human dimension of musical education.
How do we create?
Focusing on methods, artistic processes, practice strategies, communication, innovation, and the craft of interpretation.
How do we connect?
Building bridges between pedagogy, performance, research, institutions, generations, and international communities.
Five days of music, ideas, research, and exchange.
International perspectives in a rich artistic and academic setting.
The conference will offer a dynamic mix of professional development, artistic inspiration, and collegial exchange.
- Keynote lectures and invited speakers
- Workshops and masterclasses
- Research presentations and panel discussions
- Concerts and artistic events
- Networking across national ESTA sections
- Special events hosted in Ljubljana’s cultural setting
Academy of Music, Ljubljana
The conference will take place at the Academy of Music in the heart of Ljubljana, within walking distance of the historic city centre and major cultural landmarks.
The venue provides an inspiring academic and artistic setting for concerts, lectures, workshops, and meetings, while Ljubljana itself offers a welcoming atmosphere, beautiful architecture, and excellent accessibility for international guests.
Location details
Venue: Academy of Music
City: Ljubljana, Slovenia
Dates: 22–26 April 2027
Nearby: Congress Square, city centre, hotels, restaurants, and cultural institutions
Be part of ESTA Ljubljana 2027.
Registration details, participation categories, conference fees, and the call for papers will be published here.
Save the dates already now and stay connected for upcoming announcements regarding speakers, programme, accommodation, and special events.
Coming soon
Information to be announced:
- Registration opening date
- Call for papers and artistic proposals
- Conference fee categories
- Accommodation recommendations
- Travel and venue information