Since 2011, the Rosamunde Summer Music Academy has nurtured the next generation of string musicians through intensive training, expert mentorship, and dynamic performance opportunities. This summer program, designed for violinists, violists, cellists, and double bassists, offers masterclasses, chamber music coaching, and solo performance opportunities under the guidance of world-class faculty. To ensure financial barriers do not prevent talented musicians from attending, the Academy established the Rosamunde Scholarship Fund.
On Sunday, March 2, at 2 p.m., music lovers are invited to Moss House, located at 218 Roslyn Rd., Notes of Italy, a fundraiser supporting the scholarship fund. The event will feature exquisite performances, Italian-inspired treats, and a stunning silent auction.
“We always try to put something together that is going to be very fun,” said Elation Pauls, artistic director of Rosamunde and one of the performers. “The Moss House is just a really beautiful place to be. It’s so warm, it’s so welcoming, and it’s so elegant. We’re really thankful that they’re willing to host us again.”
An Italian-Inspired Experience
Guests will be greeted with cioccolata calda, an Italian-style thick hot chocolate, complete with an affogato option—gelato served with espresso or hot chocolate. “We’re going to have some different toppings, and the affogato option with gelato is going to be really, really delicious,” Pauls said. “Guests can choose their sugar rush.”
The musical program will transport attendees to Italy with selections from Vivaldi, Paganini, and classic Italian songs. Pauls and violinist Karl Stobbe will perform Autumn and Winter from Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons in a unique arrangement for string quartet. “We’re doing an unusual arrangement of The Seasons,” Pauls said. Joining them will be Sam Nadurak on continuo and Jennifer Thiessen on viola, making for an intimate chamber music experience.
Adding to the Italian flair, tenor Nolan Kehler will perform Donizetti’s Quanto è bella and William Bolcom’s New York Lights. “It was actually Hannah Smith’s idea,” Pauls explained. “She said, ‘We’d love to hear some Italian songs,’ so I shot him an email, and he was totally up for it.”
Showcasing Young Talent
The event will also feature performances from students who have attended Rosamunde. Violinist Ava Smith will perform Paganini’s lyrical Cantabile in D Major. Cellists Sophie Caron and Julianna Pauls will perform Vivaldi’s famous Concerto for Two Cellos. “Julianna will be coming to the core program again as a young professional,” Pauls noted. “It will be really, really nice to hear them play.” Ava Smith and Sophie Caron will be attending the Young Professionals program.
Silent Auction with a Musical Touch
The silent auction will include a striking contemporary painting by Shirley Elias, a celebrated artist and pianist. “It’s totally vibrant and totally explodes off of the canvas,” Pauls said. “You can imagine a violin in the painting—it’s very much in motion. You can almost hear it as well as see it.” The piece captures the warmth and colour of Italy, mirroring the event’s musical themes.
Supporting the Next Generation
The Rosamunde Scholarship Fund is essential for many students attending the Academy. “Some years, we have as many as one in three students applying for financial aid,” Pauls said. “Every year, Rosamunde has around 10 to 15 students from the Sistema program who attend tuition-free. That aspect is very important to the camp—to make sure that students who love music and want to pursue their learning have the opportunity to come into contact with this wonderful peer group and the amazing, talented faculty.”
For those unable to attend the event, donations can be made via the Rosamunde website, with all contributions being tax-deductible. “I’ve already received applications and letters of recommendation from teachers asking for financial aid,” Pauls added. “It makes all the difference in these students’ lives.”
A Taste of Italy in Winnipeg
For those on the fence about attending, Pauls has a simple pitch: “It’s a win-win. You show up, you’re in a gorgeous environment, surrounded by happy people, and the music is going to be really joyful. Even if you don’t bid on the artwork, just seeing it before it disappears into somebody’s home is something to enjoy. And then there’s the hot chocolate and the sweets.”
For a little taste of Italy in Winnipeg this March, Notes of Italy promises an afternoon of beautiful music, delicious treats, and meaningful support for the next generation of musicians.
Aspiring musicians interested in attending the Rosamunde Summer Music Academy should note that the general application deadline set for April 10.
