Cultural Activities

In addition to your lessons, master classes, and rehearsals, you also have the opportunity to select from a range of wonderful cultural activities. Some are included for participants and some you may select for a fee. See below for some of the wonderful options which can be purchased on our Registration Page.

INCLUDED FOR STUDIO AND FESTIVAL PARTICIPANTS (Guests May Add):

Opening Night Pizza Party - July 7

Held at the Villa on Via Santa Lucia on the evening of July 7, we welcome everyone with fabulous pizza from La Gustea Cucina. Yes, this is an actual photo of their pizza! Included for all Studio and Festival Participants. Guests may purchase when they register.

Bus trip to Montepulciano

Enjoy a day trip to the cliff-top town of Montepulciano, famous for its wines, local shopping and amazing views. The bus trip is included for all Studio and Festival Participants. Guests may purchase when they register.

Castle/Museum/Gallery tickets

We will provide you with tickets for 3 different attractions in Sarteano: the Castle dating from 1100 AD, the town’s impressive Civic Archeological museum and entrance tickets to the Beccafumi Art gallery. You may explore these sites at your leisure or visit the castle with a guided group from the Festival. Included for Studio and Festival Participants. Any other guest participant may add this activity. $15/p.

Final Group Dinner at La Locanda dei Tintori Restaurant

Enjoy one last group dinner after the final concert on July 21st! Dinner includes multiple courses and wine. Included for Festival and 2 Week Studio Artists. Others may add this activity. $35/p.

Festival Shuttle to/from Train Station

This service is included for Studio and Festival Participants and Registered Guests. The SMT Shuttle makes multiple pick up/drop offs from the Chiusi-Chianciano Train station into Sarteano on July 7, 15th and 22nd. Shuttle also makes 3 daily scheduled circular routes around town Monday-Saturday. Additional trips to the train station are possible with reservation as schedule allows. If shuttle service is needed for a non-registered guest, the cost is $65/person.

ADD-ONS FOR ALL:

DISCOUNTED MULTI-COURSE LUNCH in MONTEPULCIANO

If you join the group on our day trip to Montepulciano, you may also choose to enjoy a discount on a multicourse meal (wine, pasta, main course, and dessert!) at the legendary Cantina Gattavecchi that boasts cellars dating back to Roman times! $40/per person

Tour of La Foce Gardens

The Garden of La Foce, considered one of Italy’s most beautiful private gardens, was conceived to enhance the Renaissance house and expand the spectacular view over the valley of the Orcia and Mount Amiata. The harmony between buildings, garden and nature makes La Foce an ideal example of Tuscany's architectural and cultural evolution in the 20th century. Shuttle provided. Any participant may add this activity. $20/p. https://www.lafoce.com/en/garden.

Saturday Morning Guided Tour of Archeological Site

The Tomba della Quadriga Infernale, is an ancient burial site is famed for its stunning frescoes and intricate decorations that offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Etruscan people. We will enjoy a guided tour of the site which includes multiple underground tombs and stunning vistas of the surrounding valley. Study shoes recommended. Shuttle provided from town. Any participant may add this activity. $15/p.