Support young musicians at the Adam Summer School for Chamber Music | Run by the New Zealand String Quartet

Make a donation to the Adam Summer School for Chamber Music and play your part in launching the careers of young New Zealand musicians.

The Adam Summer School, run by the New Zealand String Quartet (NZSQ), is an annual, residential music programme for young violin, viola, cello and piano students. Each February, up to 30 aspiring musicians gather in Nelson for eight days of intensive chamber music-making. They attend coaching sessions and masterclasses led by the NZSQ musicians and a renowned New Zealand pianist, they connect with their peers from across the country to form life-long connections, and they showcase everything they’ve learned in a public finale concert attended by the Nelson public.

Since the very first School in 1995, more than 400 students have attended the Adam Summer School. Many of these alumni join Aotearoa’s ranks of professional musicians working at the highest level, demonstrating the pivotal role the Summer School plays as a launching pad for musicians’ careers.

Course fees for the Adam Summer School are heavily subsidised, and we endeavour to offer additional financial assistance to any student who needs it. Donations of any amount are essential to support the Summer School and ensure we are able to offer the best possible experience for our students. Whether its $10, $100 or $1000, every cent will go a long way and resonate throughout the career of a young New Zealand musician.

The 2026 Summer School will take place in Nelson from 7 to 16 February 2026.