What People Say

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The Feedback:

“The residency week was fantastic. Every day was full of great food and informative, fun, and enriching experiences that left me exhausted each night.”
—Brian
“The experience during the week was fantastic! The location, the accommodations, the facilities were all first rate. Everyone was very kind and accommodating.”
—Matthew
“There was a very positive and inclusive culture at the festival. As a faculty member, I felt supported and inspired!”
—Emma
“Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for a fantastic week. The care and attention to detail was evident in absolutely everything and in everyone we had the good fortune to meet and interact with. A truly memorable week.”
—Will
“Every person I interacted with was so warm and welcoming. The facilities are beautiful, the instruments were great, the logistics were smooth considering percussion can have a lot of moving parts. I think this residency is a really wonderful opportunity for students, and faculty. The location is beautiful, and perfect for inspiration…”
—Andrea
“I had an extremely positive experience during the residency week. Housing was great. Facilities were excellent. The schedule was manageable and planned pretty well with some flexibility built in. The administration was communicative and caring. My experience with the residency as a whole was quite fulfilling.”
—Sam
“The moment we arrived, it was clear this residency was operating on an entirely different level—beyond anything we could have imagined. The living quarters were pristine, beautiful, and just a short walk from both the rehearsal spaces and the beach. The rehearsal facilities themselves were world-class, with natural light, thoughtful acoustic treatment, and comfortable, stylish lounges. Every space seemed designed to inspire creativity and focus.

We were consistently cared for—snacks, drinks, and meals were abundant and thoughtfully prepared. Each student had their own private room, which is incredibly rare for music festivals and made a big difference in comfort and rest.

One unique element of this residency was its setting on active monastic grounds. Any initial uncertainty about how this might feel quickly dissolved—the monks and nuns were among the kindest, most welcoming people I’ve ever met. It was deeply moving to realize that much of the expansive and stunning facility—including the floors of the recording studio and even the enormous stones forming the cathedral—had been built by their own hands.

There was no pressure to participate in monastic life, but we were warmly invited to observe centuries-old traditions like bell ringing and Gregorian chant sessions. The optional tours were equally breathtaking, especially the one showcasing the custom-designed pipe organ—one of the largest in the world, created for full surround sound using pipes salvaged from churches that had gone bankrupt. We learned that members of those churches were often invited to hear their pipes live on in this new home, which was incredibly touching.

Recording in the newly constructed studio was another highlight. Though still in progress, the main tracking room was fully functional and featured modular acoustic panels we had fun experimenting with. The lead engineer—both a top-tier recording expert and skilled musician—made the sessions a dream. He could read scores and produce on the fly, so the process was seamless. The equipment was all top-of-the-line, and we were able to witness the editing and reverb work happen in real time, leaving us with a beautifully polished professional recording we’re proud to share with the world.

Beyond the music, the environment was extraordinary—students warmed up and rehearsed both indoors and at the beach flats during low tide. One unforgettable moment was a clambake hosted by a community member at their beachfront home, complete with fresh local clams and lobster rolls in true New England style.

Of course, I can’t forget to mention the food: every meal, prepared by the sisters of the monastery, was nothing short of Michelin-star quality—multiple options, gourmet preparation, and made with love.

Any one of these experiences would’ve been exceptional. Taken together, it was almost overwhelming—in the best possible way. Everything we did, from rehearsing to performing to eating, took place on grounds literally built and supported by the same community that welcomed us. It was an inspiring, joyful, and deeply nourishing week.

What stands out most is the spirit of the place. The generosity, attention to detail, and shared sense of purpose among the entire community created something truly remarkable. Arts Empowering Life is a gift to the world, and this residency takes that gift even further—welcoming artists into a space where they are seen, supported, and inspired.

It’s hard to imagine a more thoughtful, enriching, or joyful setting for music-making. I feel honored to have been part of its very first season and am already looking forward to what future summers will bring.”

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