Lake Champlain Chamber Music Festival

The Lake Champlain Chamber Music Festival (LCCMF) is a prominent cultural institution that has been celebrating the art of chamber music since its inception. The festival is built upon the foundational belief that the convergence of musicians, audiences, and students not only produces exceptional music but also fosters a meaningful dialogue that benefits all participants. With a mission to inspire a lifelong appreciation for classical music within the community, LCCMF has established itself as a beacon for music lovers and a nurturing ground for emerging talent. Founded under the artistic leadership of violinist Soovin Kim and later joined by pianist Gloria Chien as Co-Artistic Director in 2017, the festival has reached its 15th season, renowned for its exceptional musicians, innovative programming, and comprehensive educational activities. Soovin Kim's vision for the festival was shaped by his experiences as a member of the Vermont Youth Orchestra (VYO) from the age of 10, and his desire to give back to the region that played a significant role in his musical development. Each year, the festival organizes a 9-day summer event that features more than 20 public activities, including four major concerts, recitals, lectures, and discussions. One of the highlights is a free lunchtime concert at St. Paul’s Cathedral in Burlington, which exemplifies the festival's commitment to accessibility and community engagement. The festival also places a strong emphasis on education through its Young Composers Seminar, led by Resident Composer David Serkin Ludwig, and the ONE Strings program, which provides string instruction to 3rd-5th graders at the Integrated Arts Academy in Burlington's Old North End. The LCCMF is governed by a dedicated Board of Directors, including community leaders who are passionate about the festival's mission and music. The board ensures the festival's fiscal health and strategic vision, maintaining high standards of financial responsibility and transparency. The current board members include Lynne Bond (President), Drew Kervick (Vice President), Sandra Rendall (Secretary), Jan Stickle (Treasurer), and several other individuals committed to the festival's success. The festival's vision is to create a community where programming both delights and challenges audiences, educational activities nurture current and future generations, and world-class musicians are celebrated and supported. As a financially healthy organization, LCCMF is dedicated to fostering collaborative partnerships that sustain a rich musical environment and contribute to the overall health of the arts community. With its vibrant programming and educational outreach, the Lake Champlain Chamber Music Festival continues to be a cornerstone of the cultural landscape, bringing together world-class musicians and enthusiastic audiences in a celebration of chamber music's enduring legacy.