National Music Festival

The National Music Festival advances the lives and careers of promising musicians by providing access to world-class education and performance opportunities.

The National Music Festival combines world-class mentor musicians and gifted young professional apprentice musicians for an intense Festival experience the first two weeks of each June. All apprentices receive full scholarships and housing, mostly with host families in private homes. The two groups rehearse and perform side by side in orchestral, chamber, solo recital, choral, and chamber opera repertoire. In two weeks, these musicians present over 30 concerts and dozens of free open rehearsals for music lovers from around the world.

Each year the Festival serves approximately 100 apprentices and employs approximately 25 mentors (including the Artistic and Executive Directors, who also teach). Musicians come to the Festival each year from more than 15 countries and 30 U.S. states. The average age of apprentices is 22, although some are older and have already completed their advanced degrees and begun their careers.

Concerts and free open rehearsals take place in a variety of venues including churches, theaters, art galleries, and local businesses. The Festival’s performances and pre-concert talks provide affordably priced entertainment and education to its patrons, including children. All rehearsals are free and open to the public. Attending rehearsals is a particularly good way to introduce young children to concert music!