decoda announces the 2nd annual winter retreat at

potash hill in marlboro, vermont

March 4 - 9, 2026

Join Decoda for our second annual Winter Retreat | March 4–9, 2026
at the historic Potash Hill campus in Marlboro, Vermont—home of the famed Marlboro Music Festival.

This immersive experience is designed for amateur musicians with a serious commitment to chamber music and a passion for collaboration, mentorship, and artistic growth. Participants will receive daily coachings, play side-by-side with Decoda artists, and share in a week of intensive and joyful music making.

We can’t wait to return to Potash Hill to welcome both new and returning participants to this growing musical community!
This year, we are also excited to offer multiple levels of accommodations to participants. Click "More Info" to explore the different options.

decoda Faculty

Doori Na (Retreat Leader)

Sæunn Thorsteinsdottír

Moran Katz

Mika Sasaki

Additional faculty to be announced soon.

"I am thrilled to be working with our participants for a second year! One of the most rewarding parts of this experience is seeing how our shared love of chamber music brings people together,
whether returning or joining us for the first time, to share, learn, and create lasting connections."— Doori Na, Decoda violinist & Winter Retreat Leader

Application Deadlines

September 15, 2025 - Applications Open
October 31, 2025 - Early Bird Application Deadline ($50 application fee)
November 30, 2025 - Final Application Deadline ($75 application fee)
*Note - Capacity is limited. Priority acceptance will be given to those who apply by October 31.

Notification of Acceptance: rolling and by December 5, 2025
Deadline for Confirming Participation & Deposit Due: Wednesday, December 10, 2025

Who Should Apply?

We welcome adult amateur instrumentalists with strong playing ability and a deep commitment to chamber music. This residency is ideal for those who are passionate, experienced, and eager to grow through collaboration and musical exploration.

We encourage applications from individual players as well as pre-formed ensembles.

Eligible Instruments: violin, viola, cello, bass, piano, flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, horn, and other instrumentalists interested in working with Decoda.

Required Skill Level:

Advanced amateur players with prior ensemble and performance experience.
Comfortable preparing repertoire independently and rehearsing at a high musical level.

Ideal Qualities:

Strong commitment to chamber music and collaborative music-making
Prior experience playing in ensembles
Openness to feedback and artistic growth
Curiosity, generosity, and a spirit of shared learning

If you have any questions about your eligibility or fit for the program, feel free to reach out — we’re happy to help (decodawinter@decodamusic.org)