Growing up in Irvine, my fondest memories of my teenage years are filled with music: rehearsing Mendelssohn string quartets, soloing with the Pacific Symphony Orchestra, performing Bartók's Divertimento for Strings with my teacher's youth orchestra, the award-winning music program at Irvine High School - the list of events and remembrances is endless. Indeed my calling to follow a path in music was heavily influenced by the many dedicated teachers I met and outstanding programs I was so very fortunate to take part in during those precious formative days.

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It is so important to give back to the communities which have guided us and provided cultural and intellectual nourishment, and to continue passing on the rich musical traditions and values which we have experienced.

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The Irvine Music Festival is an embodiment of this spirit of cultural riches. Dedicated, gifted and passionate young musicians and the resources of a nurturing community are the centerpiece around which an outstanding faculty gathers to provide artistic inspiration and musical expertise, all encompassed by the breathtaking natural beauty of Southern California.

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After several years of successful programs at Irvine Valley College and Chapman University, we are proud to announce that our first-year partnership with Concordia University Irvine (CUI) in 2019 was a resounding success. Nestled in a gated community on 70 acres of land, the campus rewards gorgeous panoramic views of Orange County. The 38,500 square foot Borland-Manske Center provides our participants with access to an extraordinary building for practice rooms, teaching studios and performance spaces, highlighted by the extraordinary acoustics of the beautifully constructed Charlie and Ling Zhang Orchestra Hall which hosts our guest artist masterclasses, orchestra rehearsals, and solo/chamber recitals. Shared dormitory housing provides students from other regions the opportunity to safely reside on site for the duration of the festival.

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After a few years of virtual and limited in-person seasons, uur 2023 in-person program at CUI was a return to form, with the students bonding and making friendships which have endured beyond the festival's two-week period. We look forward to an even stronger program in 2024, with more diverse activities, class offerings, and of course continuing our tradition of wonderful guest artist masterclasses and specialty classes.

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Much as Irvine's educational culture was for me in my formative years, it is my sincere hope that the Irvine Music Festival will be a wonderfully powerful memory for our young musicians for years to come.