Who We Are
Championing our Future Classical Musicians
Through concerts and career support, M.U.S.i.C. brings world-class performance opportunities to emerging classical musicians
Our Mission
Assist the next generation of world-class musicians to bridge the gap between educational and professional development by creating opportunities to perform for live audiences, providing collaborations, networking opportunities, and financial assistance, while offering exciting, professional concerts for our audiences.
Our Vision
Be a leader in assisting world class classical music students to transition from education to profession. Maintain and grow a vibrant, unique organization able to support talented young musicians by producing chamber music events, providing funding, and networking to assist with their professional development.
How It All Began
Founded by a group of passionate musicians and music lovers, M.U.S.i.C. emerged from a shared belief that young artists need real performance experiences to thrive. Since our first concert in 2005, we’ve hosted over 180 events and helped launch countless musical journeys.
Our Leadership
M.U.S.i.C is run by a group of dedicated individuals committed to furthering the arts in Northeast Ohio, including:
Artistic Director
Jodi Kanter
Board of Directors
Frank Buck, President
Mehmet Gencer, Vice-president
Joseph Hensel, Treasurer
Bridget Richard, Secretary
Michael Bailis
Raffaele Di Lallo
David Freno, CFP®
Maureen Garnett
Dr. Andrew Goldberg
Raymond Kolcaba
Marvin Nevans
Robert Villarreal
Artistic Advisory Board Members
Zachary Brandon*, Violinist & international competition prize winner
Brendon Phelps*, Cellist, Faculty Member at Akron Music Institute
Philip Highfill, Oberlin Conservatory Music Faculty Emeritus
Alexander Kostritsa*, Piano, Doctor of Musical Arts from Cleveland Institute of Music
John Simmons*, Pianist & Vocal Coach, Cleveland Institute of Music Faculty
Peter Takács*, Pianist, Oberlin Conservatory Music Faculty Emeritus
Brian Thornton*, Cellist, The Cleveland Orchestra
*Current or Former M.U.S.i.C. Performer
What Our Musicians Are Saying
“One of the things I appreciate the most about performing with Stars of the Classics is the variety of repertoire I am able to play. All of this music has become part of my performance repertoire.” –Jackson Naglick, piano
“It has been a pleasure to perform unique piece that I would have never been able to perform without M.U.S.i.C.!” – Zoe Stier, flute
“Few things are as valuable as real world opportunities. I have grown a lot because of them.”
“It is very helpful to understand what it is that audiences are enjoying” – Colin DeMatteo, baritone