The Chenango Summer MusicFest, presented by Colgate University and the village of Hamilton, celebrates the opening of summer with a special blend of chamber music concerts and festivities over four days in June. Held in the picturesque Chenango Valley setting on the Colgate University campus and in the village of Hamilton, the festival begins on Thursday, June 19, and ends on Sunday, June 22.Internationally acclaimed classical and popular musicians will give daily chamber music concerts for strings, winds and piano. They include Laura Klugherz, violin/viola; Bruce Berg, violin; Robert Dan, viola; Carmelo Galante, clarinet; Carol Harte, double bass; Gregory Helseth, French horn; Steven Heyman, piano; Dennis Parker, cello; and Roger Nye, bassoon.
The festival originated in an effort to bring visitors to the village of Hamilton during the summer months when Colgate University activities are few as well as to offer local residents access to accomplished, world-renown, classical musicians.
Reminiscent of a scene from the early 20th century, Hamilton will celebrate Village Day on Saturday as part of the MusicFest. Staged around the village green, the entertainment will be continuous as local performers take the stage for a series of free outdoor performances. Local chefs will compete for top honors in the annual Summer Sweets Dessert Competition. There will also be a farmer's market. The day will end with an ice cream social and an evening concert on the green with the internationally acclaimed Caribbean steel pan band, JahPan.
An international dinner, wine-tasting, Latin dance exhibition and party will be held on Thursday, the festival's opening night. In addition to four days of performances, chamber music and soloist master classes will be held in strings, winds and piano.
All events on Village Day are free. There are fees for other concerts, classes and dinners.For more information or to register, please call 315-228-7645 or visit http://groups.colgate.edu/musicfest/
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