Acclaimed by Phi Beta Baton as "…one of the nation's
proving grounds for gifted young artists", the Bar Harbor Music Festival has gained national recognition for its unique work. It has become a "beacon of hope
for young artists", as it remains one of the few music festivals in the United States whose guiding mission is to provide essential performance opportunities for
outstanding up-and-coming talent. During the past 43 years, the Bar Harbor Music Festival has advanced the careers of over 1,800 aspiring instrumentalists, singers, and composers,
presenting a glorious summer of music encompassing recitals, chamber music, "Pops", "New Composers", opera, jazz, and string orchestra concerts. In so doing,
we have provided a vital public cultural service for Bar Harbor, Mount Desert Island, and the State of Maine. We have also had a positive impact on the region's
economy through our "Arts and Tourism" marketing initiatives.
We shall be celebrating our 44th Season in 2010 with 12 magnificent performances July 2-July 25. Highlights
will include one of Puccini's most deeply felt and compelling operas, "Madame Butterfly" on July 16 featuring Soprano, Shana Blake Hill of the Los Angeles
Opera and Scott Scully, one of the rising young tenors of the Metropolitan Opera.
Ticket receipts will barely cover 20% of our total costs. Due to the present economic conditions, we have not
increased our ticket prices. Contributions are the only way to make up the income gap. We are encouraged by
the initial show of support which has yielded $70,000 towards our 2010 Funding Goal of $250,000, but we still have a long way to go.
We held steadfast in the volatile economy of 2009 thanks to the extraordinary generosity of our supporters. Over one
third of our cherished friends of music increased their contributions last year despite the recession. We are immensely grateful to you.
There was no bail out for the Bar Harbor Music Festival. We, who love and value music, are the only ones who can save it in this country.
Please let your commitment be heard again by making a tax deductible contribution to our 44th Annual Drive.
With every good wish and always thanks.
Sincerely,
Francis Fortier
Artistic Director
Dear Friend of Music: