JUNE 8-19, 2025

ABOUT THE INSTITUTE

The Composers Institute at Lake George Music Festival 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 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.

2025 FACULTY

INSTITUTE DIRECTOR
Alyssa Weinberg

COMPOSER
Amy Beth Kirsten

COMPOSER
Donnacha Dennehy

ENSEMBLE
The Rhythm Method

What to Expect

  • Masterclasses with distinguished guest composers
  • Individual composition lessons
  • Rehearsals, performance, and professional recording of a new work for the Rhythm Method
  • Workshops, seminars, and discussions on issues relevant to the 21st century musician

Tuition

TUITION COST:
$1,100

INCLUDES:

  • One private composition lesson with Alyssa Weinberg
  • 2 Masterclasses with distinguished guest composers
  • Daily workshops, seminars, and discussions on contemporary music and topics on professional development
  • All-access festival pass to nightly performances and events
  • Professional audio recording of your world premiere performance
  • Fun events like our opening celebration and after party!

HOUSING COSTS

Composers can choose to stay with a local host family near the Village of Lake George (free) or opt to stay in a double occupancy hotel room on campus for an $850 fee. Daily breakfast and lunch can also be provided for an additional $250 fee (also optional).

Applications

HOW TO APPLY:

Applications open November 1st

DEADLINE:

January 1st, 2025 at 11:59PM EST.
Must be over 18 to apply

APPLICATIONS MUST INCLUDE:

  • CV or Resume
  • Portfolio including scores and recordings of 2-3 recent compositions
  • Letter of Recommendation (optional)
  • Application for Financial Support (optional)
  • Application fee of $25
  • Personal Statement*

*Personal Statement format can be submitted as a short (ca. 2 minute) video introduction OR as a written statement (1-2 paragraphs).

​Please discuss your artistic interests and goals, what you hope to gain by attending this program, and anything else you’d like us to consider. We review these very carefully, and the statement matters just as much as your portfolio – This is your chance to show us who you are!

More Info

PLEASE NOTE:

Only a limited amount of scholarship funds are available. Applicants must submit our official scholarship application if requesting financial aid (optional).
Must be over 18 to apply

MORE INFORMATION:

  • Applications that do not strictly follow these procedures will not be reviewed.
  • Application fee must be paid at the time of submission
  • A non-refundable enrollment fee of $100 is due immediately to reserve your space and applies toward the cost of tuition. The remaining tuition balance is due by April 1st.
  • Composers are responsible for their own transportation.
  • For questions about repertoire or other submission related details, please contact us at info@lakegeorgemusicfestival.com