We may wish that the calendars of the great musical institutions in the New York City could be equally active year-round. In summer, let’s be honest, there is less to choose from piano-wise than during the other seasons. But summer also affords its own distinct calendar of inviting piano events, especially so if you are willing to travel outside the city. And the piano events in the city deserve focus by being less numerous. Here are some summertime music events that are ongoing and upcoming. Enjoy!
IKIF (July 8-12, 2024)
The International Keyboard Institute and Festival in New York City is a summer piano festival that offers a week of concerts and master classes, and is open to participant students as well as the public. Since 1999, the festival has attracted students from around the world who have the opportunity to attend the festival to study with international faculty and artists, participate in masterclasses, and attend nightly concerts given by some of the world’s best-known pianists. Students receive lessons and can observe other lessons throughout the day.
Mannes Summer Piano Festival (July 15-24)
The inaugural Mannes Summer Piano Festival is a celebration of piano artistry at the Mannes School of Music at the New School. Listeners will experience an extraordinary lineup of internationally acclaimed pianists gracing the stage of the historic Alvin Johnson/J.M. Kaplan Hall at The New School in New York City.
Piano at Bryant Park (Ongoing through October 4)
The Bryant Park Corporation invites piano lovers to “come on down and swing along with the best ragtime, stride, and jazz musicians in town,” on the upper terrace most weekdays from 12:30-2:30 PM.
Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center, Saratoga Springs, N.Y. (July and August)
The Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center has several piano-inclusive concerts in July and August, in Saratoga Springs, NY.
Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts (July and August)
Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts offers a July and August of exceptional music performances, captivating programs, and beautiful gardens. Visitors can explore historic sites, enjoy picnics, and experience music in various unique settings.
Bridgehampton Chamber Music Festival (July and August)
The Bridgehampton Chamber Music Festival offers eight piano-inclusive chamber music performances throughout July and August, in Bridgehampton, Long Island.
Norfolk Chamber Music Festival (July and August)
In July and August, the Yale School of Music presents the Norfolk Chamber Music Festival, offering collaborative piano performed in chamber works of esteemed composers.
Lake George Music Festival (August)
The Lake George Music Festival presents piano recitals on two dates in August. The Lake George Music Festival is a high-level artist retreat for musicians, conductors and composers, set over two weeks in picturesque Lake George, New York. Each summer, the festival offers a dynamic and immersive experience for performers and patrons alike through a series of daily concerts, open rehearsals, special presentations, and more.