<p>DD is thrilled to learn that she has been accepted to the Oberlin summer program in Italy, but we are wondering about the different housing options that are being proposed...apartments vs a convent (?). We'd love to hear from anyone who's had expereince with the program.</p>
<p>The location is new this year...</p>
<p>Thanks mamenyu, I guess we're on our own then regarding housing (although my guess is she won't want the convent option!) Do you know any more about the program generally for instrumentalists? We're also hoping to plan a visit...</p>
<p>Daughter stayed in the apartments a couple of years back when the program was in Urbania and she really liked that arrangement. She likes to cook and was close to markets where she could buy ingredients very inexpensively for making dinners. On evenings when they do not have performances, they are pretty much free to do whatever they want (recall that the legal drinking age in Italy is 18) and are on their own for meals. If your daughter is mature enough to handle herself in that kind of situation, the apartments could be an attractive option. If you think she may need a bit more structure, then you might consider the convent. My guess is that most of the students will opt for the apartment.</p>
<p>As mamenyu points out, this is their first year in Arezzo, so it is going to be hard to get first-hand reports about the different options.</p>
<p>Congratulations on the acceptance, by the way. I am sure she will have a great time.
PM me if you have specific questions about the program for instrumentalists. If I cannot answer the questions, I can forward them to my daughter.</p>
<p>I lived in Arezzo breifly and it gets pretty hot in the summer. You might ask
which accomodations might have A/C. Frequently convent accomodations have access to small kitchens. Arezzo is a wonderful place , great food and charming citizens.
Send her off with a mosquito coil and a book on
Piero della Francesca.</p>
<p>The convent could be fun -- like a dorm, where it would be easy to meet and hang around with other musicians.</p>