The new home of the IIMA
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Nurturing artists to excel, connect, and create a lasting impact through the power of music.
The Issigeac International Music Academy is a non-profit association dedicated to classical music excellence and cross-cultural exchange. We create a vibrant community in the heart of the Dordogne where global talent thrives through collaboration, mentorship, and world-class performances.
Ishani Bhoola
Founder & Artistic Director
Ishani recognised the Dordogne as the perfect setting in which to bring together classical music, education and cultural exchange. With its rich and diverse history, the region has long been a meeting point for different cultures and traditions. Through international courses and concerts, she saw an opportunity to continue that tradition—bringing musicians and audiences together, nurturing young talent and enriching the cultural life of the region.
Classical music is at the heart of everything we do.
Growth & Performance
Alongside our courses, we present exceptional concerts in some of the region’s most beautiful and historic settings — bringing performances of international quality beyond the traditional concert hall and into the heart of our community. This is invaluable for the growth of our students as performers and helps us spread the joy of classical music
The IIMA is a not-for-profit organisation, driven by a shared passion for music and its power to inspire. The Academy is run entirely by a dedicated team of volunteers who give their time and energy to make everything we do possible.
Our Academy
With the full support of the Mayor and the Commune of Issigeac, the IIMA opened its doors in 2019 — bringing exceptional music, inspiring teaching and a new generation of musicians to the heart of the Dordogne. Since our first season, we have welcomed aspiring musicians to Issigeac to learn, perform and grow in confidence. Our courses bring students together with world-class artists, offering outstanding teaching, mentoring and the opportunity to develop both their skills and their individual artistry.
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Shaping the artists of tomorrow
Founder and Artistic Director
Patron & Masterclass Tutor
Musical Director
Exceptional Musicianship. Generous Support.
As our Honorary Associate Artist, Charles Matthews embodies the IIMA ethos: exceptional musicianship generously shared with the next generation. An accomplished concert pianist and organist, Charles studied at the Royal College of Music and was Organ Scholar at Trinity College, Cambridge. Alongside an extensive international performing career, he is deeply committed to nurturing young musicians. His generosity, patience and exceptional musicianship make him an invaluable support to IIMA students.
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Charles formed the IIMA Academy Trio with Ishani Bhoola and Richard Jenkinson in 2025 and returned as pianist for the 2026 Masterclass Course and Concert. He has since performed at a number of IIMA events.Â
Our Ambassadors
The IIMA Ambassadors Programme brings together former students who share their journey to inspire the next generation. We are honored to be represented by soprano Miranda Robertson and violinist Michele Jobling, both of whom embody the Academy's spirit of excellence and community.
MIRANDA ROBERTSON
Miranda Robertson is an exciting young soprano and former IIMA Masterclass student. Winner of the 2025 Kathleen Ferrier Bursary for an Outstanding Young Singer, she studies with IIMA Patron Nelly Miricioiu and at the Royal Academy of Music on a full scholarship. Miranda joined the IIMA Masterclass Course in 2024, performing in the Gala Opera Concert and as soprano soloist in Mozart’s Requiem. She has since performed in France and Romania and continues to build a promising professional career.
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As an IIMA Ambassador, Miranda offers prospective and current students something particularly valuable:Â the perspective of a young singer building her own professional career.
MICHELE JOBLING
Michele Jobling has been part of the IIMA since its earliest days as a student, volunteer and passionate supporter. After a successful career in retail, brand management and business mentoring, Michele returned to the violin following a 35-year break. She has participated in every IIMA Strings Course and remains closely involved in the life of the Academy.
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Michele brings a very different perspective to the Ambassador role:Â that of someone who has rediscovered the joy of making music and embraced the opportunity to continue developing as a musician.
THE IIMA IS POWERED BY PEOPLE WHO BELIEVE PASSIONATELY IN WHAT WE DO
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Our Committee members give their time, energy and expertise voluntarily, working throughout the year to make our courses, concerts and events possible. From supporting our artists and students to organising venues, welcoming audiences and building relationships within the community, their contribution touches every part of the Academy.
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Their commitment allows us to concentrate our resources where they matter most — creating opportunities for musicians, supporting emerging talent and bringing exceptional classical music to Issigeac.
President Simon Jorda presenting a fundraising cheque to Hervé Delage, the Mayor of Issigeac.