Launched in 2015, Irvine Music Festival (IMF) is a non-profit, intensive summer classical music program designed for passionate and dedicated young musicians, ages 13 and up. It is taught by a world class faculty of highly regarded performers and educators, all of whom are committed to inspiring and nurturing budding musicians who wish to take their mastery to the next level. From 2019 IMF will be held on the campus of Concordia University, Irvine (CUI), located in Irvine, California, known for its commitment to education, music and the arts. Entering into a collaboration with CUI, we are expanding our program into an international festival with overnight accommodations to host students and faculty from around the country and all over the world. Illustrious guest artists have included violinists Emanuel Borok, Guillaume Sutre, and Nathan Cole; and cellists Antonio Lysy and Robert deMaine.

 

Growing up in Irvine, California, the fondest memories of my teenage years are filled with music: rehearsing Mendelssohn string quartets, soloing with the Pacific Symphony Orchestra, performing Bartok's Divertimento for Strings with my teacher's youth orchestra, the phenomenal music program at Irvine High School - the list of events and remembrances is endless. Indeed my decision to follow a path in music was heavily influenced by the many outstanding teachers and programs I enjoyed during those precious days. 

After being away from Irvine for several years and having lived in many wonderful places, my return to Irvine was greeted by an even more thriving arts environment than existed during my childhood years. I am thrilled to be part of such a vibrant, supportive community that values and supports music education. I realize how important it is for me to give back to the community that gave me so much - to continue passing on the rich musical traditions and wonderful values that I was so fortunate to experience. 

The Irvine Music Festival is the embodiment of this spirit of cultural riches. Hard-working and gifted young musicians and the resources of a supportive community are the centerpiece around which an outstanding faculty can gather to provide artistic inspiration and musical expertise in a nurturing and passionate environment. 

Much as Irvine's educational culture was for me, it is my sincere hope that the Irvine Music Festival will be a wonderfully powerful memory for our young musicians for many years to come. We have established ourselves as a leading musical program in Orange County and the surrounding regions and have continued this tradition of excellence as a global event since 2019.