Q&A with new artistic director at Music in Mountains

Sierra FoodWineArt spoke with Gregory Vajda, the new artistic director at Music in the Mountains:

What is the philosophy of Music in the Mountains?

We believe that enthusiasm is the essential ingredient for any concert- goer—more important than formal dress or music knowledge. We challenge the notion that classical music is stuffy. We present the full spectrum of “classical music,” including Pops, Jazz, World and Broadway music.

Why did you agree to become conductor?

Upon hearing about the search, I immediately saw an amazing opportunity in applying. I don’t know of any other classical music festival with concerts, special events and education program going on year-round. I am ready to put my imagination to work and make exciting things happen. I have worked with quite a few of the outstanding musicians of the MIM festival orchestra before the search started. I knew I was going to find a great group of people here to make great music with.

What are your goals for your inaugural season?

My goal is to present a “Sampler Season” and show the community that we can do anything and everything that is related to classical music. I am a firm believer that the future of classical music business lies in the MIM size and type of organization. You have to be inventive, rooted in your community and able excite people every day. You’ve got to make everybody realize that there is no substitute to live classical music. No CD, iPod or DVD can give you the artistic and social pleasure that live concerts can.

Who is your favorite composer and why?

I’d rather not limit myself by picking one out of the possible 100 or so. Let me just say, there is nothing on MIM’s 2010 season I don’t love with a passion.

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