Frequently Asked Questions
How can I get answers to questions not in the FAQ?
For workshop-related questions, email us at info@suzukiworkshop.org. Please note, response times may be slower during busy periods as our team is volunteer-based, especially when the registration first open and the weeks leading up to the workshop.
For accommodation inquiries, contact Hotel Szarlota Resort directly.
Registration & Booking
Is there a closing date for the application form?
Yes, the closing date for submission of application forms is the 2 April 2024.
What's the participant limit at the workshop and its impact on enrolment?
We limit participant numbers at each skill level group to ensure a balanced and engaging experience. If a level reaches full capacity, immediate placement may not be possible, but you can opt to join our waiting list. Available spots due to cancellations will be offered to those on the waiting list.
Where will the workshop be held?
The workshop is held in Poland at Hotel Szarlota Resort with the final concert taking place in Gdańsk. Please see venue tab for more information about the resort.
How is accommodation booked for the workshop?
The workshop's location is remote yet stunning, making on-site accommodation a practical choice for many. As part of the registration process, you will be asked to specify your accommodation preference at the hotel, with options to suit various budgets. Please be aware that the availability of different accommodation types is limited, and indicating a preference does not ensure a booking. Following the receipt of your workshop payment, the hotel will allocate accommodation on a first-come, first-served basis, taking into account your preference and their current availability. You will receive a confirmation of your accommodation arrangement directly from the hotel.
How can I improve my chances of securing my preferred accommodation?
Accommodation is allocated with certain priorities in mind:
Families with two or more workshop participants get priority for comfort+ hotel rooms, Charlotta cottages, and large forest cottages.
Groups sharing a larger cottage (4-5 persons), especially with more workshop participants, are given preference.
Participants accompanied by a single adult are prioritized for Kashubian house accommodations.
After considering these priorities, accommodation is assigned on a first-come, first-served basis, determined by the date your workshop fee payment is received.
What happens if our preferred accommodation type isn't available?
If Hotel Szarlota Resort, our venue partner, is unable to offer you suitable accommodation, you have the option to withdraw from the workshop. Should you choose this, we will provide a full refund of the participation fee, minus any expenses related to international bank transfers. For more details, please refer to our cancellation policy section.
Do I have to book accommodation at Hotel Szarlota?
Booking accommodation at Hotel Szarlota is not mandatory. If you choose to stay elsewhere, simply select the "Staying elsewhere" option in the accommodation section of the registration form. However, please ensure that you arrange to arrive at the hotel in time for the daily classes.
Can teenagers attend the workshop unaccompanied?
No, for safety reasons participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult, either a parent or designated guardian. Groups of teenagers may be supervised by one adult. For such arrangements, select 'Other - complex requests' on the registration form and detail your plan. Organising cottage accommodation for these groups should be coordinated with other parents/guardians and directly with Hotel Szarlota.
How will I know if my child is accepted into the workshop?
Notifications will be sent from info@suzukiworkshop.org to the parent email provided. Please add our email to your trusted contacts if possible, to avoid it going to spam.
After registering, if there is a place for your child's level, you'll receive an initial acceptance email with payment details within 14 days. Please wait for this email before making any payment. Your child's place is confirmed only after we receive the workshop fee payment.
Please note that due to the winter holidays in Poland, there will be a longer response time. The process of confirming applications will commence from 28 February 2024.
What if I don't receive an acceptance email?
Firstly, please check your spam mail to ensure that our email hasn't ended up there.
However, if you do not receive an acceptance email within 14 days, it means your child is not yet allocated a space, but they are automatically placed on a waiting list. If a spot becomes available, you'll be informed. We don't send rejection emails until all spots are confirmed as filled. If you wish to be removed from the waiting list, please email us at info@suzukiworkshop.org.
When should I pay for the workshop?
You'll receive payment instructions via email after submitting your application. The total fee covers the workshop price group, any chosen individual lessons/master classes, and optional bus transport to the final concert. Please be aware that your place is only secured after payment, and spots are limited.
What happens if I pay late?
If payment isn't received within 5 working days of acceptance email, your child's place may be allocated to the next participant on the waiting list.
Does the workshop fee include the accommodation costs?
No, you will receive communication directly from Szarlota hotel and payments for accommodation and meals should be made directly to the hotel under their terms and conditions.
When should I plan to arrive and depart for booking my flights?
For arrival check-in, registration starts from 3pm. Please allow ample time and avoid arriving at the last minute. There's a possibility that some classes may start from 3:30pm, therefore, please plan your travels accordingly.
For departure, the final concert (Saturday, July 27th) in Gdańsk is expected to finish by 4pm, although this time may be subject to minor adjustments.
Instead of traveling with my instrument, can I hire one at the workshop?
Unfortunately we are unable to provide instrument hire for the workshop. You may be able to arrange this via other vendors. However, participants typically bring their own instruments.
Questions specific to international participants:
What is the nearest airport?
Gdańsk Lech Wałęsa Airport, Poland
Will transport be organised from the airport to the venue?
Unfortunately, due to the varied arrival times of participants, we are unable to provide a shuttle service from the airport to Hotel Szarlota. We suggest taking a train from the airport to Kościerzyna, and then a taxi to “Ośrodek Wypoczynkowy Szarlota”.
Is there arranged transport from Szarlota to Gdańsk for the final concert?
Yes, transportation can be arranged. Please indicate your requirement on the registration form. Please note that this service comes with additional fees and is non-refundable due to the need for early organisation. If you change your mind after booking, the cost cannot be refunded. If you do not complete this section but subsequently require transportation, you will need to organise this by yourself.
Preparation for the workshop
Does my child need to prepare any music for the workshop?
Absolutely! We’ll send a list of all the necessary repertoire to your registered email. This may include some additional songs outside of the Suzuki Book repertoire appropriate to their level. We kindly ask that students prepare their music before the course and are ready to perform by heart in group lessons and on concerts.
My child is signed up for additional Individual Lessons/Master classes, what does he/she need to prepare?
The additional lesson provides the opportunity to develop technique, musicality, and to add depth to a well-known review piece rather than being a lesson where new notes are learned. In consultation with your home teacher, please choose a comfortable review piece to play in your individual lesson/Master class.
How do I know if my child is participating in Orchestra or chamber groups?
You’ll be sent information via your registered email when we send out your child’s repertoire list.
What do I need to bring for Orchestra and chamber groups?
Please bring a music stand and have your orchestra or chamber music parts printed and taped. It's also advisable to bring a pencil and eraser to each class. Unfortunately, we don’t have printing facilities on site, so please come prepared
Is there an opportunity to sign up for a Solo Performance?
Yes. There will be an opportunity for your child to sign up for a Solo Performance, an email will be sent out to your child's Suzuki teacher after your child's place in the workshop has been confirmed.
Is there a dress code for the concerts?
Yes. Dress code for group concerts is all black or black / dark lower part and white top. The orchestra members of the oldest orchestra are asked to wear full length / below knee dress/skirt/trousers.