Inaugural Classical Bridge Festival Kicks Off Next Week

This August, New York City will host the first ever Classical Bridge, an international music festival, academy and conference designed to build bridges through the music. Presented by New York Concert Artists & Associates (NYCA), the inaugural event runs August 4 - 11 at Merkin Concert Hall at Kaufman Music Center (129 West 67th Street, between Broadway & Amsterdam Ave), Symphony Space (2537 Broadway, at 96th Street), and Steinway Hall (1133 Avenue of the Americas at 44th Street). For tickets, reservations and more information visit www.ClassicalBridge.org.

The festival offers three components:

FESTIVAL CONCERTS featuring the festival orchestra and internationally renowned soloists ranging from 11 - 70 years old.

ACADEMY of celebrated artists offering master classes for aspiring musicians.

CONFERENCES. In an unique element that is unique to this particular music festival, Classical Bridge offers full schedule of panel discussions at which classical music industry leaders engage with musicians, addressing practical topics and mentoring emerging careers.

"With Classical Bridge, we aspire to create an event for the classical music community - musicians,aspiring artists, music industry professionals and music lovers - with the goal of building new audiences and providing helpful resources and innovative ideas to musical presentation," says Classical Bridge founder, producer and performing artist Klara Min. "Classical Bridge believes that we contribute to an ever-evolving music industry and society-at-large in the hopes of a more fully imagined musical life. We live in a time when division is rampant in daily conversation and headlines. But through music, we can find unity and build bridges across, nations, cultures, generations, and aspirational goals. We can inspireyoung artists through master classes, introduce great artists to new generations of audiences, and provide each with platform learn and collaborate. Through mentorship and a shared passion for music, we can bring together a community that puts music before any boarder, boundary or barrier."