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Q: HOW DO I PAY?
A: PayPal is the quickest and easiest method for participants outside Europe: see the PayPal form on the 'Bookings & Enquiries' page. The disadvantage is it costs an extra 4%, which we are charged by PayPal for every payment received. We collect the 4% when you arrive in France. Otherwise we accept only sterling or euros. The best method is by sterling or Euros transfer directly into our account, details on enquiry. Or participants can mail a sterling bank draft or sterling travellers' cheques to the UK address on the application form.

Q: What standard must I be to attend the course?
A: For the Intermediate Class we do not stipulate a minimum standard. Enthusiasm
for the piano and its repertoire is the only requirement. The atmosphere is extremely supportive, and even the most reluctant, rusty or nervous players feel inspired to contribute. The Advanced Class, however, operates at conservatoire level. Some quite proficient pianists feel happier in the Intermediate Class; others enjoy the challenge of the Advanced Class. Depending on numbers and the differing standards of participants, the Intermediate Class may be divided into two streams. Those unsure which side of the divide they fall should email Paul Roberts at info@ambialetmusic.com with details of their current level and repertoire.

Q: Do I have to audition?
A: No, though as numbers for the Advanced Class are small we choose participants from their CVs and through recommendation.

Q: What is the deadline for applications?
A: There is no fixed deadline. Places are allocated until the accommodation is full.

Q: Can other instrumentalists attend?
A: Most certainly. In previous years duos and chamber groups have participated in the classes.

Q: What is the usual age range?
A: The age range on a single course can be 17 to 76 and rising. Generally 18-25-year-olds predominate in the advanced class, though it frequently contains some older participants too. The intermediate class is always a mix of ages.

Q: How is the day organised and how long are the classes?
A: Please go to the Course Content page for full details

Q: How much opportunity is there to practise?
A: Plenty. Practice pianos – a choice of uprights, three grands, and several digital instruments are ranged around the property and can be booked in hourly slots. Most participants find they can easily fit at least two hours a day between classes and other activities. However we ask for silence from pianos after 7pm.

Q: Is board and lodging included in the price?
A: Fees are inclusive of all classes, concerts, meals and use of practice facilities,
and range from £750 to £1200 depending on the type of accommodation
chosen (see Fees & Accommodation).

Q: My family has a holiday house nearby. Can I attend the course and live out?
A: Yes. Please enquire about our day-rate.

Q: Can I bring my wife/husband/partner/non piano-playing friend?
A: Yes – and we offer them a 10% discount. Whether they choose
to attend the classes and concerts, or use the chateau as a base for sight-seeing, cycling, hiking etc, is up to them

Q: In which language are the classes held?
A: English.

Q: Do you run any similar courses in the UK?
A: Yes, weekend courses in East Sussex with Paul Roberts, including workshops and an evening recital. Details can be found at PaulRobertsPiano.com.

• Music at Ambialet offers accommodation in the newly restored, 11th-century Benedictine priory in the village of Ambialet, in the Gorge du Tarn.
• "Students have returned year after year. Clearly this is one summer school that could become addictive" - BBC Music Magazine
• "The place, the people, the weather, the food, everything was memorable."