They arrive each season searching for new ways to pass on their wealth of knowledge. In turn, we on the faculty are rejuvenated by the fresh perspective and enthusiasm of the young artists who study here.

We will again present more than 30 concerts featuring all of our students. Another unusual feature at Killington is the importance we put on making sure that each student performs multiple times during the festival. From my own experience, I know that going through the complete process of learning and studying new and old music can, at a certain point, only mature by performing the work for an audience. In doing so, students at KMF increase their understanding of the communicative nature of music. They naturally gain confidence in their musical and instrumental development and performance abilities. They leave the festival full of confidence having reached a new level of maturity and lasting-knowledge.

One of the highlights at Killington is our annual Saturday evening Music in the Mountains faculty-artist concert series. This is the series 28th season! On it, our acclaimed artists from around the world bring Carngeie Hall quality performances and programming to the local region. The concerts are events, not just a concert! Our theme-based concerts are filled with passionate masterpieces of the chamber music and string orchestra repertoire as well as solo performances and exciting new works. In addition, I would invite you all to attend our masterclasses, which happen throughout each of the six weeks, and are open to the public. We will once again offer our faculty panel discussions (on topics including “How to Practice Effectively,“ "Strategies to Overcome Nerves” and “How to Make a Career in Music Today”).

I look forward to a great 2010 summer season and hope you will make the Killington Music Festival a part of your summer plans.

Best wishes,
Allison Eldredge, Artistic Director