Since 1988, the International Holland Music Sessions has been a beacon for young classical musicians, providing them with the stage, mentorship, and inspiration to launch extraordinary careers. From its rich history to its thriving community of alumni, IHMS continues to shape the future of classical music—one note at a time.
Our History
The International Holland Music Sessions (IHMS) was founded in 1988 on the initiative of the Conservatory in Alkmaar. What began as a summer course has, over the years, evolved into the Summer Academy and Festival it is today. Young international talents are given the opportunity to attend masterclasses taught by experienced and renowned instructors. Specially organized concerts provide them with valuable performance experience. Over the years, IHMS has offered countless young musicians a strong foundation for the rest of their careers.
Festival Setup
The festival takes place annually during the summer in Bergen, North Holland. The Adriaan Roland Holst School serves as the heart of the Summer Academy, where the masterclasses are held. Concerts are hosted at unique historical venues in and around Bergen, such as the Ruïnekerk in Bergen and the Slotkapel in Egmond aan den Hoef.
Mission Statement
The International Holland Music Sessions (IHMS) aims to support and promote young, talented musicians. IHMS seeks to foster their professional development and prepare them for successful careers in classical music through high-quality education, performance experience, and international collaboration. The organisation is guided by the core values of craftsmanship, innovation, and connection.
IHMS combines respect for the craftsmanship of classical music with a forward-looking approach by embracing innovation in both education and performance. At the same time, IHMS serves as a platform for connection, bringing together musicians, tutors, cultural partners, and audiences in an inspiring environment.
Since 1988, IHMS has annually organised the Summer Academy & Festival in Bergen, The Netherlands. During the Summer Academy, young, talented musicians participate in intensive masterclasses taught by renowned tutors. Specially organised concerts during the Festival provide them with the opportunity to further develop their artistic skills.
In this way, IHMS has served as a crucial foundation for the careers of many young musicians worldwide for decades, contributing to a sustainable future for classical music.
The festival is led by Maria-Paula Majoor, who is responsible for the artistic direction and organization of the event. She is supported by Dorothé Holland.
Maria-Paula Majoor, Festival Director – Read more
Dorothé Holland, Office & Finance Manager
Coordinators
The festival would not be possible without the dedication of more than 100 volunteers. Some host students in their homes, others assist with organization and catering, and others handle transportation to the concert venues. The volunteers’ activities are coordinated by several coordinators:
Paula Boddaert – de Bruijn, Coordinator of Festival Catering
Maarten Dahmen, Coordinator of Academy Facilities & Helpdesk
Joke van Eersel, Coordinator of PR
Etty Postma, Coordinator of Host Families
Marien Schrijver, Coordinator of Transport
Annelot Vijn, Coordinator of Social Media
Foundation: International Holland Music Sessions
The festival operates under the auspices of the International Holland Music Sessions Foundation. Its board consists of the following members:
Good governance requires accountability and transparency. Each year, we publish an annual report, including financial statements, to provide insight into IHMS's operations. Below is a link to the most recent annual report, along with an archive of reports from the past 10 years.