Last weekend, the prestigious 'Philharmonie de Paris' organized an international competition for cello makers. In addition to experienced luthiers, people who make or repair string instruments, schools also participated in the 'Talents of Tomorrow' category. Ilze De Ligt and Joshua Hermans, both students of ILSA, achieved a respectable third place with their cello.
The Instrument Building department of PTS Boom may not be well known to the general public, but in the classical music world, the 'Internationale Lutherie School Antwerpen', or ILSA for short, is a renowned name. Students who want to specialize in building bowed or plucked instruments can come to ILSA for a three-year program. The program has built a solid reputation and today attracts students from all over the world.
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During the program, students learn to manufacture bowed or plucked instruments according to the rules of the centuries-old craft of lutherie. In addition to good hearing, fine motor skills and a strong interest in music, the program also requires considerable patience, a sense of precision and an appreciation for aesthetics. Most students therefore take a specialization year in which they can gain extra experience through internships with established instrument makers.
Johan Hertogs of ILSA is pleased with the result: "Making the podium at a competition of this caliber is certainly something to be proud of. It is also a fine confirmation of the high standard that ILSA aspires to."
Deputy Luk Lemmens agrees with him: "By participating in international competitions, our instrument building department sets the bar high and that clearly results in motivated and ambitious students. Ilze and Joshua have proven that ILSA produces excellent professionals and for me they embody the attitudes we pursue with our provincial education: dedication, discipline and pride in the skills and expertise acquired. I therefore congratulate them sincerely on their achievement!"