A summer professional music festival produced annually by Penn State’s School of Music has come to an end after 40 years.
The university wrote in a news release on Friday that the school has decided to “sunset” the Penn’s Woods Music Festival because of a “a renewed focus on initiatives that most directly advance student learning, professional preparation and artistic development.”
“This was not an easy decision, given the festival’s history and the joy it has brought to so many,” Ann Marie Stanley, director of the Penn State School of Music, said in a statement. “Our priority is ensuring that every initiative of the School of Music advances the educational experience of our students in the most impactful way possible.”
Started in 1986, the Penn’s Woods Music Festival offered professional performances of orchestral and chamber music, as well as some jazz, at multiple venues, such as the Arboretum, Recital Hall and Eisenhower Auditorium.
For years, concerts took place over a two-week period in June, though in 2025 it transitioned to a single weekend.
The concert series offered a cultural experience for the campus and local community that might not otherwise have been available.
“Penn’s Woods Music Festival brought extraordinary musicians and artistic programming to our greater community — experiences that simply would not have happened here otherwise,” Russell Bloom, assistant director of facilities, engagement and outreach for the School of Music and director of operations for Penn’s Woods Music Festival, said in a statement. “It was made possible through a meaningful partnership between the community and the university, a collaboration that shaped its character and success.”
Gerardo Edelstein, who served as the festival’s music director for more than 20 years, said it leaves a legacy of “artistic excellence.”
“The trust, friendship and passion shared on stage defined every rehearsal and performance, and the festival touched countless people in this community and far beyond,” Edelstein said in a statement.
According to the School of Music, the festival’s spirit “will continue through new programs, innovative partnerships and dynamic performance experiences designed to serve students and the broader community.”
