Business Details
50+ Years
experience
World-Renowned Artists and Educators in Residence
We are a premier summer music festival and educational institution dedicated to nurturing musical excellence through education and performance. Founded in 1964, our festival has grown into an internationally recognized program attracting talented young musicians and world-renowned artists. Our comprehensive programs include instrumental training, composition studies, fellowship opportunities, and collaborative piano instruction. We provide a unique environment where emerging artists can learn from established professionals in the field. With over $500,000 in scholarships available annually, we strive to make our programs accessible to talented students regardless of financial means. Our faculty comprises distinguished musicians who have performed on prestigious stages around the globe.We host the renowned Gamper Festival of Contemporary Music, showcasing innovative new works. In addition to our educational programs, we offer a vibrant concert series featuring both faculty artists and visiting performers. Our events reach audiences in 113 countries through our livestreaming capabilities. Committed to community engagement, we present free concerts and special events designed to make classical music accessible to all. Our impact extends far beyond our Brunswick, Maine campus, with alumni going on to successful careers in music performance, education, and composition worldwide.
Services
Instrumental Program
Composition Program
Fellowship Program
String Quartet Program
Collaborative Piano Program
Masterclasses
Meet the Composer
Community Concerts
Family Concerts
Music at the Museum
Details
- Year established: 1964
Highlights and features
- We offer award-winning programs for emerging musicians
- Our faculty includes internationally recognized artists
- We provide over $500,000 in scholarships annually
- Our concerts reach audiences in 113 countries
- We host the renowned Gamper Festival of Contemporary Music
What people say
Award-winning programs
World-renowned faculty
Exceptional concerts
Generous scholarships
Enthusiastic community reception
Services
Instrumental Program
Our Instrumental Program provides intensive training for young musicians aged 15-25. Students receive personalized instruction from world-class faculty while participating in chamber ensembles and masterclasses. The program focuses on developing technical proficiency, musical interpretation, and stage presence through both individual and group instruction.
Composition Program
The Composition Program nurtures emerging composers through mentorship with established professionals. Participants receive instruction in contemporary composition techniques while having their works performed by student ensembles. The program includes workshops, lectures, and collaborative opportunities with instrumentalists and vocalists.
Fellowship Program
Our Fellowship Program offers advanced training for professional musicians. Selected fellows receive performance opportunities, career development guidance, and specialized instruction. The program includes ensemble participation, solo recitals, and professional networking opportunities with established artists.
String Quartet Program
This intensive chamber music program focuses on string quartet training for advanced musicians. Ensembles work closely with faculty mentors to develop interpretive skills and ensemble cohesion. Participants gain experience through performance opportunities and receive feedback through regular coaching sessions.
Collaborative Piano Program
Our Collaborative Piano Program trains pianists in ensemble performance and repertoire interpretation. Students work with faculty and instrumentalists to develop skills in accompaniment, sight-reading, and musical collaboration. The program emphasizes the role of the pianist in chamber music and solo instrumental settings.
Questions
What age groups does the festival cater to?
We primarily serve young musicians aged 15-25 through our educational programs, though our concerts and community events are open to all ages.
Are scholarships available for participants?
Yes, we offer over $500,000 in scholarships annually to help talented students attend our programs regardless of financial circumstances.
Can I attend performances if I'm not a student?
Absolutely! Our concert series features world-class artists and is open to the public with both free and ticketed events available.
How can I apply to participate in the programs?
Applications are available on our website. Our competitive selection process considers artistic merit, potential for growth, and program requirements.
Is the festival only active during summer months?
Our primary programs and events run from late June through August, though we maintain a presence through special events and online programming throughout the year.
Videos