The New Ground Orchestra Festival is bringing professional women musicians from our local community, throughout Pennsylvania, the east coast, and even as far as Washington state and Belgium to State College from July 22nd through July 26th. The time will be spent focusing on health and well-being, intentional connection with the local community, and invigorating the rehearsal process to close with an exciting concert that includes the east coast premiere of "Immortal Beloved" for violin and orchestra.

Health and well-being ~ Through therapeutic sessions: journaling (led by Carolyne Meehan), singing (led by Patti Begg), Eurythmy (a movement art that I will lead), and selfcare sessions led by Revive Massage, the musicians will receive support for their own growth and development, allowing them to inspire and bring to new life to their playing.

Intentional connection with the local community: Each morning the musicians will give their helping hands to a local organization. The following organizations will welcome the musicians for community service: ClearWater Conservancy, Plowshare Produce, and Centre Safe.

The festival will close with a concert on Friday, July 25th in the Recital Hall at the Penn State School of Music. The concert is free to the public and donations will be collected for Centre Safe.

As a musician it is essential that we maintain our passion and inspiration for performing so that we can give a wealth of inspiration and strength to our audiences. Often the realities of a professional musician's schedule does not allow time to focus on health and how we can best connect with and serve our community with our gifts. The festival has been created to give women musicians a window of time to work and grow professionally, while also strengthening themselves through connection with the local community, therapeutic artistic exercises, and support in self-care.