Music in the Mountain’s 2020 SummerFest is going virtual

Editor’s note: We received this letter today from MIM, and excerpts are published here. “This new virtual SummerFest may very well redefine the scope and reach of MIM,” as the group observes. We couldn’t agree more!

“The 39th Annual SummerFest is going virtual. Our staff is preparing an exciting line-up of concerts and events to enjoy in the virtual world… where we can safely meet. A full schedule of events will be announced in the next week.

“In the meantime, we can share that there will be concerts by fabulous guests artists from their homes… there will be a concert by our MIM orchestra players from their homes…and there will be a virtual Happy Birthday USA picnic concert.
 
“All of these concerts will be hosted by Maestro Murray, and you will be able to enjoy them in the safety of your home.
 
“But concerts are not the only virtual experiences that we will bring you. There will also be music discussions led by Ryan Murray and Pete Nowlen, a Family Music Fair, and other fun activities for you to participate in.

“We will have ‘test-run’ events so you can get acclimated to the new format and be ready to enjoy all the fun SummerFest 2020 has to offer. 
 

The industry 
 “Our sister classical music organizations are also going through this time of transformation with us. We are all examining how we make live classical music, an art form that requires us to be in close proximity. It is work that requires us to interact, intersect, and connect. This is a time when the entire industry is redefining itself, and we couldn’t be prouder to be music makers. We believe that art is going to flourish during this time of isolation. That from this moment, our voices are going to rise up stronger and more vibrant than ever.
 
How can you help?
 “For those of you who have asked how you can help, donations continue to be the key. Cancelling live concerts and events also affects donations. The future of live classical music in our community depends upon your support during these challenging times. 
  
What if you want/need more content?
“In addition to the virtual SummerFest, we have been, and will continue, sharing new content through our weekly newsletters and social medai. They feature new and pre-existing material, including slideshows set to our chorus and orchestra, new recordings by Ryan Murray and friends, as well as other videos we think you will enjoy.
 
“SummerFest 2020, along with other virtual content we are developing, will advance classical music across multiple generations, varying economic circumstances, and wildly varying geographies. This new virtual SummerFest may very well redefine the scope and reach of MIM.”

(Photo: Kial James)