History

Founded in 1947, the Hartwick Summer Music Festival & Institute (formerly known as the New York State Music Camp) has been a unique and inspiring setting where thousands of young musicians have been nurtured and challenged. HCSMF&I is situated in the small city of Oneonta, New York, by the beautiful Susquehanna River in central New York.

Our uniquely varied and flexible program provides an enriching educational experience to students of all levels. Students can take advantage of a comprehensive program comprised of classes, private instruction, solo and group performances, and recreational activities. With numerous performance groups, including jazz combos, woodwind quartets, full orchestras, musical theatre productions, and more, HCSMF&I encourages students to broaden their musical horizons and allows them to tailor their schedules to meet individual needs.

HCSMF&I offers students rare opportunities to work closely with professional musicians of the highest caliber. Through our intensive coaching system, students receive insight and guidance from our dedicated faculty during large group rehearsals as well as private lessons, chamber music rehearsals, and sectionals. Master classes with distinguished artist-teachers such as Jeanne Baxtresser, Victor Danchenko, Pamela Frank, Frank Kaderabek, Ida Kavafian, Ricardo Morales, Harold Robinson, Steven Tenenbom, Peter Wiley, and Richard Woodhams complement instruction by Festival faculty and further expose students to the highest levels of musicianship.

While education is the core of the HCSMF&I program, personal and social growth take place as natural additions to musical growth. The warm, personal atmosphere of the festival community offers students a welcoming setting in which to enjoy organized sports, recreational activities, and free time to share newly formed friendships. With 59 successful summers behind us, we look forward to the upcoming season and hope to continue inspiring young musicians for many years to come.