About

Mission

Presenting world-class chamber music concerts, promoting and supporting classical music learning opportunities for all ages, and creating awareness of the value and significance of fine music. We believe that live music should be accessible to all as it expands creativity, enhances intelligence, and enriches the spirit.

History

In 2005, local musicians passionate about creating opportunities for live classical music performance organized a chamber music society. The following year, the society partnered with the Arts Council of White Lake, eventually coming under the umbrella of their oversight and management. From 2006 to 2017, the music branch of the ACWL, with the oversight of an advisory board, created and administered multiple programs and initiatives.

In August of 2017, the board of the music branch spread their wings and pursued their own non-profit status as the White Lake Chamber Music Society. Since this time, we have continued to administer and grow our existing programming: The West Michigan Junior Strings, the White Lake Chamber Music Festival, the White Lake Lecture Series, the College-Age Young Adults Solo Competition, and partnerships with area arts organizations and businesses. New programming has also been introduced, including the Swan Series and Collegiate Ensemble Concerts.

Overview of Programs, Lessons, Outreach

At the heart of our music society’s mission is a dedication to enlivening music awareness, education, and engagement within the community. From festivals and recitals, to in-school clinics and private instruction for students of all ages, the WLCMS proudly hosts an assortment of community outreach programs throughout the year.

The White Lake Chamber Music Festival is the highlight of our annual programming. This event showcases exceptional talent and inspiring classical music performances over the first two-week period of August every year. We are honored to bring a cultural experience usually found only in metropolitan cities to the White Lake area, making the fine arts more accessible to our residents and visitors.

WLCMS’s Young Artist Solo Competition is another highly anticipated event. Throughout the competition, accomplished music students from Michigan’s top universities and colleges compete for top prize and a monetary award. At an exciting spring event in Montague, the final round of competition occurs live between the top 10 finalists, and award winners are announced.

To further music appreciation in the White Lake area, WLCMS is also proud to annually host the West Michigan Junior Strings program, the White Lake Winter Lecture Series, and The Swan Series as part of our annual programming.