History:

Founded in 1991, Summit Music Festival assembles a faculty of the highest caliber, representing the finest traditions of Europe, Asia and the American continents, to offer concentrated study in ensemble and orchestral programs to talented students from all over the world.   Efrem Briskin, Artistic Director and David Krieger, Executive Director began with a small summer music camp program which transformed into a summer music festival of the highest quality with an international character. By 1993 they had established the basic structure of its present program to serve serious pre-professional musicians from all over the world and offer its host community an exciting array of chamber music and orchestral concerts.

As the largest and most comprehensive event of this kind in the New York Metro area, participants from more than 20 different countries have the opportunity to work and learn from faculty and guest artists of the highest caliber, amidst an atmosphere of friendship and mentoring. The successful integration of the Asian, European, and American methods creates the inviting ambiance where musicians from all over the world develop a network of associations vital to their professional development and career path. Summit Music Festival exposes the student to the highest level of artistry and mastery of instrumental playing, and is an ideal environment for young professionals to connect with and learn from established professionals and preeminent musicians who can be influential in their career path. Geared for the highly self-motivated and independent music student, the intensive schedule focuses on close student-faculty collaboration through individual, chamber and orchestral study. Through rigorous preparation for the concerto competition or solo performance along with in-depth ensemble experiences, the students will have the opportunity to reach new heights.