FiESTA! - Bridging the Past and Future of String Pedagogy

The 54th Annual International ESTA Conference 2026

26.-30.8.2026 - Helsinki, Finland

Join string pedagogues and musicians from around the world in Helsinki, Finland 26 - 30 August 2026.

The 54th International European String Teachers Association Conference is a celebration of the past, present, and future of string pedagogy. Join us in the heart of Helsinki for ESTA 2026 - a dynamic gathering of string pedagogues, performers, and educators from across Europe.

What to Expect?

ESTA 2026 features lectures and workshops by educators and performers from Europe, Australia and USA, masterclasses for all string instruments, panel discussions on current topics in music education, networking opportunities with colleagues from across Europe, and performances highlighting both students and professionals.

Video 2026

“Our aim and strong desire is to create a beautiful five day festivity of music and education, “Bridging the Past and Future of String Pedagogy” guiding us through this Fiesta! Come and join our FiESTA! to enjoy beautiful concerts, interesting lectures, workshops and improvisation sessions – all while enjoying the company of each other!

Welcome! Tervetuloa!”

Päivyt Meller | President, ESTA Finland

Registration

Tickets for ESTA 2026 will be available for purchase online. Early Bird registration opens in November 2025.

Call for Proposals

We invite string educators, performers, researchers, and innovators to submit their ideas for lectures, workshops, masterclasses, and panel discussions. Help shape the program of ESTA 2026 and share your expertise with an international community of passionate string pedagogues.

Call for Proposals opens in September 2025.

Welcome to Helsinki.

“For a tourist, Finland is the Land of Lakes. It is true, but for you, dear ESTA Colleagues, this beautiful country will be also the Land of Music. Come, participate and experience!”

Géza Szilvay | President

European String Teacher’s Association

 FAQs

  • Every year, the International ESTA Congress brings together leading string pedagogues from across Europe to explore innovative ideas, strengthen professional relationships, and foster meaningful exchange within the string teaching community.

  • Each year, ESTA Conferences welcome pedagogues from across Europe, representing a diverse range of genres and disciplines within the string pedagogy field. The program is designed to engage both established and emerging educators in the performing arts and string teaching. Attendees include teachers, musicians, professors, students and dedicated string pedagogues.

  • ESTA 2026 will take place from August 26 to 30 at the R-building of the Sibelius Academy, University of the Arts Helsinki, located in the heart of Helsinki.

  • Tickets for ESTA 2026 will be available for purchase online. Early Bird sales begin in November 2025.