Youth and Music

The Collingwood Music Festival launched the first ever youth masterclass session in October 2024.

Six young musicians in piano, violin and cello were immersed in an environment that fostered inspiration and collaboration with prestigious professional teachers and fellow young talents.

After a day of one-on-one instruction, the musicians performed their work in a concert. The success of the program is leading to an expanded program for 2025 including a nature component.

Funded: $6000

About the Collingwood Music Festival

The Collingwood Music Festival CMF showcases live music performances featuring the highest calibre of internationally-renowned artists presenting in the fields of classical music and beyond to a wide variety of audiences each summer. The concerts vary from intimate chamber music recitals to full orchestral concerts. The Festival also provides local, emerging music talents with the opportunity to perform. The CMF targets the large summer tourist population of the Southern Georgian Bay area, including visitors from the GTA located less than 200 km away.

Research has shown the social, physical and cognitive benefits of hosting a music festival in its community. These benefits can enhance people’s moods and nurture a sense of belonging. The Festival remains committed to reducing financial barriers to the arts, offering affordable membership plans, special promotions for families with children, and volunteer opportunities to ensure accessibility. For example, the Festival has a range of free events geared towards youth, providing them with a unique opportunity to enjoy bona-fide, live music experiences, while helping to build future fans of classical music events.