The Composer’s Institute at Lake George Music Festival (May 31– June 11, 2026) brings together some of the most promising young composers from across the country for a week of study and creative exchange. Under the mentorship of composer and Institute Director Alyssa Weinberg, students will attend a variety of seminars, masterclasses with Katherine Balch and Viet Cuong, and private lessons, while being able to participate in the vibrant musical and social life of the Lake George Music Festival. Each selected composer will be asked to write a new work for string quartet, to be workshopped, performed and recorded by our ensemble-in-residence The Rhythm Method.

Eligibility
  • 18 years and over
  • No nationality restrictions
Application Materials
  • 2-3 recent compositions
  • Resume/CV
  • Personal Statements
Tuition
  • $1,250
  • A limited amount of scholarship funds are available. There is no formal application form. All applicants will be considered for financial aid.
Application Fee

While we do request a $25 application fee to help cover administrative costs, we never want that to be a barrier for any artist. If the application fee is a hardship for any reason, you can easily opt out without jeopardizing approval of your application by requesting a no-questions-asked fee waiver. Our goal is to make this opportunity as accessible and inclusive as possible for all musicians. To request a fee waiver, please email info@lakegeorgemusicfestival.com.

Housing Options

Composers can choose to stay with a local host family near the Village of Lake George (free). Composers also have the option to stay on our centrally located hotel campus for $950 per person for a shared room, or $1,900 for a private room offering comfort and convenience just steps from festival activities.

Recording Rights

Composers will get access to a professional recording of their work by the Rhythm Method String Quartet taken at the final night of the institute. Composers may use these recordings for their own use.