Lied the Way Returns to Florence: A Transformative Workshop for Female Lied Duos
Florence has long been a city where art and history meet, but this July it will once again become a hub for innovation, connection, and empowerment in classical music. From July 8–13, 2025, Lied the Way returns to the Renaissance capital with a one-of-a-kind workshop designed exclusively for female Lied Duos.
This isn’t just another masterclass. It’s a movement—one that reimagines how women collaborate, create, and shape their careers in the world of song.
A New Vision for Collaboration
Following three successful years—and the powerful debut in Florence in 2024—Lied the Way continues to build on its mission: supporting women artists to thrive both personally and professionally.
While classical music often celebrates individual brilliance, true artistry also depends on relationships and community. That’s why this workshop goes beyond technique to explore:
How female artists can nurture healthy collaborations
The challenges and opportunities of working together
Ways to build supportive networks in an industry that too often pits women against each other
For any duo—whether emerging or established—this is a unique opportunity to deepen trust, share experience, and rediscover the joy of making music together.
Beyond the Masterclass: A New Approach to Learning
Instead of the traditional “top-down” teaching format, Lied the Way creates a more holistic, participatory environment.
Expert Mentorship
Participants will learn from an extraordinary lineup of mentors:
Prof. Anne le Bozec (Conservatoire National Supérieur Musique et Danse Paris)
Erika Switzer (Bard College, Head of Collaborative Piano)
Marlis Petersen (renowned soprano at Bayerische Staatsoper and Wiener Staatsoper)
Each evening, the group gathers to experiment with different ways of sharing knowledge:
Duos coaching one another with mentor feedback
Group teaching circles
Interactive discussions on artistry and career paths
During the workshop, each duo will also receive a private coaching session to refine their chosen repertoire.
Returning to the Body and Breath
A highlight of the program is the work of Kendy Gable, holistic vocal coach, singer-songwriter, and doula. Kendy guides participants to reconnect with their bodies and voices through breathwork, gentle movement, and self-reflection.
Her approach treats singing as a path to self-discovery—one that honors both the physical and emotional aspects of performance. Each morning begins with group sessions, complemented by a private duo session later in the week.
Reimagining Performance
Participants will also benefit from the expertise of Lied the Way board members Emily Hehl and Elenora Pertz.
Emily Hehl, acclaimed stage director (Vienna State Opera, Salzburg Festival), will lead seminars on rethinking the traditional recital. From lighting to dramaturgy, she’ll help duos explore how staging can transform a Liederabend into an immersive artistic experience.
Elenora Pertz, Artistic Director of Lied the Way, will guide sessions on “The Way of an Artist”—applying life-design principles to create authentic careers. Certified in Women’s Cycle Coaching, Elenora also offers a unique perspective on how female musicians can align their work with their natural rhythms.
Workshop Highlights at a Glance
When: July 8–13, 2025
Where: Palazzo Corsini al Prato, Florence—a beautiful Baroque venue and the home of Fondazione Mascarade Opera
Schedule Includes:
Opening Concert (July 8) with Elenora Pertz and Hagar Sharvit
Concert with Joanna Kacperek and Clara Barbier-Serrano (July 12)
Final Participant Concert (July 13)
Daily mentor sessions and coaching
Morning movement and breathwork
Seminars on career development, collaboration, and performance
Why This Workshop Is Different
Unlike many professional development programs, Lied the Way is:
Female-focused—providing a supportive, inclusive space to explore artistry without competition
Holistic—addressing not just technique but also body awareness, mental well-being, and personal growth
Collaborative—emphasizing peer learning and collective creativity over hierarchy
Rooted in Community—connecting like-minded musicians to build lasting professional networks
Who Should Attend?
This workshop is ideal for:
Female Lied Duos at any career stage
Singers and pianists seeking deeper artistic collaboration
Artists looking for a more sustainable, authentic approach to performance
Musicians who want to connect with mentors and peers in a transformative environment
Join the Movement
In the words of Artistic Director Elenora Pertz:
“We believe that empowering women to collaborate, trust, and support each other will not only transform our own careers, but also the classical music world at large.”
If you’re ready to be part of this change—to grow as an artist, deepen your partnerships, and reimagine what a Lied career can be—this is your invitation.
Spots are limited, and applications are open now.
Learn more and apply at:
www.liedtheway.com/workshop-2025
About Lied the Way
Founded to reimagine how Lied is taught and performed, Lied the Way is an international platform dedicated to supporting women in classical music. Through workshops, concerts, and mentorship, they champion a new vision of artistic success—one rooted in collaboration, authenticity, and holistic well-being.
Are you in Florence for the Lied the Way Workshop?
While you’re here immersing yourself in music and connection, why not make the most of your time in this extraordinary city?
At Artviva, we offer a wide range of curated experiences to help you discover Florence beyond the rehearsal room. Whether you’d like to explore Renaissance masterpieces, learn to cook authentic Tuscan dishes, or simply stroll hidden corners with an expert guide, we’re here to make your stay unforgettable.
Below you’ll find some of our most popular tours and activities in Florence—perfect to enjoy during your free hours or as a relaxing way to wind down after a day of workshops.
If you’d like help arranging any of these experiences (or something bespoke), just let us know.
1. The Original Florence Walk
Discover Florence’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems on this engaging walking tour led by expert guides. Perfect for first-time visitors.
2. Exclusive After-Hours Uffizi Gallery Tour
Enjoy the Uffizi without the crowds on this private evening tour. A once-in-a-lifetime experience for art lovers.
3. Michelangelo’s Florence: Walking in His Footsteps
Trace the genius of Michelangelo across Florence, from his sculptures to his favorite haunts.
4. Vasari Corridor Private Tour
Step inside the Medici’s secret passageway above the Ponte Vecchio, with rare access and expert storytelling.
6. Florence Food Tour
Shop in the local market, then create a delicious Tuscan meal under the guidance of a professional chef.
7. Artisan Gelato Making Class
Make authentic gelato in a hands-on workshop—fun for couples, families, and food enthusiasts.
9. Private Florentine Steak Experience
Savor the city’s most famous dish—Bistecca alla Fiorentina—with exclusive access to a historic restaurant and guided tasting.
10. Florence Artisan Shopping Tour
Explore Florence’s best ateliers and workshops, from leather and gold to marbled paper, guided by a local expert.
