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Composition, creativity and improv retreat
HEAR WHAT YOU SEE IN YOUR MUSICAL OFFERINGS
Award-winning composer and cellist Margaret Maria, came to composing in a unique and unorthodox way.
Join a group of peer musicians, composers, and avid creators, for a one-of-a-kind inspirational retreat. Set amid the stunning backdrop of the medieval town of Breno, Margaret Maria’s unique approach will guide you on a creative journey of exploration, contemplation, unlimited ‘seeds of creativity’, and ultimately pushing beyond your perceived boundaries into the expansive depths of your creativity.
Through daily non-judgemental, guided creative activities and free form spontaneous improv sessions, this individualized, highly tailored program will free your mind and unleash your full artistic and creative potential.
Hear What You See in Your Musical Offerings
At BIIMA, creativity begins where boundaries end.
This retreat invites you to step into your artistry — to create, explore, and listen deeply to the music that only you can make. It’s a space for freedom, curiosity, and authentic expression, where every sound, silence, and gesture becomes part of your unfolding voice.
Creation
Journey into the heart of creativity.
Through guided workshops, meditations, improvisations, and spontaneous creative practices, you’ll uncover your unique entry points into the creative process. Discover what moves you, learn to trust your instincts, and bring your imagination to life — moment by moment.
Composition
Listen differently.
Fine-tune your ear to the colors of sound, and learn how to transform what you hear into something wholly your own. Margaret’s approach to composition is fearlessly experimental and free of genre, a nurturing environment where judgment gives way to discovery. Every experience is custom-tailored to the artists present — shaped by the group’s energy and individual inspiration.
Improvisation
Learn to let go — to respond, to play, to breathe music in real time.
Here, improvisation is a practice of listening and liberation, not perfection. You’ll learn how to expand on an idea or theme, cultivating spontaneity and creative confidence. No prior experience is needed — only curiosity and an open heart.
Performance (Optional)
When you’re ready, share what you’ve discovered.
You’ll have the opportunity to accompany meditations, collaborate with other musicians in improvisatory masterclasses, and present your work in a final concert that celebrates growth, courage, and creation.
Tuition Fee: $4,500 CAD
This comprehensive fee includes full room and board, all program training, and round-trip transportation on the *BIIMA bus from Malpensa Airport to/from the Academy.
*Participants are responsible for arranging flights and travel to coordinate the timing of the bus.
Participants may choose double or single occupancy accommodations at either Ostello di Valle Camonica or the Accademia Arte e Vita.
Please note that excursions, flight fees, and single-occupancy upgrades are not included.
All fees are strictly non-refundable.
Participants of the Composition, Creativity & Improv Retreat enjoy:
• Daily One-on-One Coachings
• Daily Masterclasses
• Public Performances
• Home-Cooked Meals & On-Site
• Accommodations prepared with care by our hosting nuns
• An Opera at the Verona Amphitheatre and an excursion to another major Italian city
This retreat is a uniquely immersive BIIMA experience — a space where artists explore their creative instincts, develop new compositional and improvisational skills, and evolve their artistic voice in a supportive community embraced by the beauty of the Alps.
