About us
French Connection Academy is built as a long-term ecosystem for classical musicians, combining education, performance, and professional transition.
We invite young classical string players and pianists to an international summer academy based on a cultural exchange between Denmark and France.
Our academy is first of all a learning environment for young musicians to improve, perform and prepare. In addition we believe in creating opportunities and concrete experiences for the students.
Professional concert-prizes in numerous festivals, academy exchange networking, concert clothing and/or equipment will be awarded to several students at the final concerts of the academy.
France | Denmark
French Connection Academy is founded on Danish and French values and on a deep cultural dialogue between the two countries. The academy brings together the Nordic pedagogical tradition – characterised by empathy, openness, and social responsibility – with the richness of French artistic heritage, aesthetics, ambition, and cultural scale.
This dialogue is reflected throughout the academy’s activities: in our teaching philosophy, in our artistic vision, and in our programming. French and Danish composers are actively highlighted in prize concerts, lectures, and educational content, alongside a broader exploration of the shared cultural history between the two nations – from the Royal Danish House and long-standing diplomatic ties to contemporary political cooperation, visual arts, and cultural exchange.
From Shared History to Contemporary Creation
French Connection Academy exists to strengthen and renew the cultural links between Denmark and France through music, while also opening a window onto the wider international artistic world. This is why the academy welcomes students from all countries and backgrounds, and why international perspectives are an essential part of its identity.
The academy’s vision naturally grows out of the founders’ personal identities, artistic paths, and cross-border relationships, and is further supported through collaborations with the French Embassy in Denmark and the Danish Embassy in France.
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Upcoming Concerts
Paris, 75017 France
København K, 1050
FOUNDERS
Emilie Callesen Doulcet
Founder & Director
Emilie Callesen is a violinist and cultural entrepreneur, educated at the Royal Danish Academy of Music in Copenhagen, with a master’s exchange year at the Conservatoire National Supérieur de Musique de Paris. She is the founder and director of French Connection Academy, where she supports young musicians through a holistic approach combining artistic excellence, mental and physical well-being, and professional development.
Kristoffer Dolatko
Co-Founder, 1966-2025
Denmarks very own talent developer for young classical violinists. Kristoffer teaches many talented and award-winning students in Aarhus, Esbjerg, Vänersborg (SE), Manchester (UK), in addition to his presence and management of international masterclasses and competitions. In other words, Kristoffers pedagogical experience is of great importance to French Connection Academy.
Jean-Baptiste Doulcet
Co-founder & International Relations
Co-founder of French Connection Academy. Pianist, improviser, and composer with an active international concert career. Jean-Baptiste works at the intersection of artistic practice and institutional development, drawing on his network and engagement to connect the academy with international partners, foundations, and patrons. His work is driven by a commitment to creating sustainable frameworks for artistic growth and human development.
SPONSORS
COLLABS
FUNDING
Honorary Board
Catherine Lefebvre
Attaché of Press & Culture, Danish Embassy in France | Directer of Fondation Danoise
Michael Starbæk Christensen
Danish Ambassador to China and Mongolia
Testimonials
“For the second year in a row, I have had the pleasure of being invited to speak to the participants of the French Connection Academy. This unique academy welcomes young musicians from all over the world with a program that is both ambitious and close. It is precisely this tension between the top professional and a safe and warm learning environment that shines through. Against this background, the young people can perform at their best and take leaps and bounds in their educational process. My lecture on "the traveling artist and sustainability" sparked debate and reflection in line with the approach they encounter in the teaching. The administration of the FCA is also at the highest level, and the entire concept of the academy and its implementation are deeply impressive."
“Congratulations for launching this new academy so successfully from all points of view! Long life to French connection in Denmark !”
“Dear Emilie, Jean-Baptiste and Kristoffer, I am so grateful that I met you! I have never experienced such caring attitude, attention and support at master classes! I will remember this journey and acquaintance for a very long time and I hope to come to you next year 🌸❤ ”
“French Connection Academy is one of the most exciting new developments in the world of classical music. The only difficulty is likely to be its immense rise in popularity.”
“The improvisation with Jean-Baptiste at French Connection Academy helped me develop in new directions and I think I have found a new part of me as a musician!”
“I had an unforgettable time, thank you FCA!!”
“The French connection academy has given me a chance to improve my playing in a safe and friendly environment.”
“One of the most creative and inspiring courses I have been to.”
“This academy is a magnificent project. Great encounters and very good organization. I am very happy to have been able to participate, and I sincerely hope to be able to come back next year!”
“You're all incredible 🧡🧡”
“I could feel the high quality, passion and engagement ! Every little details and the care was really impressive for only 2nd edition! Congratulations”