Festival Fellows
The Festival String and Vocal Fellowship is a unique training opportunity for emerging artists, designed to support young performers who have been traditionally underrepresented in classical music as they pursue successful careers in the field.
Each year outstanding young musicians are hand-selected by the Festival to rehearse and perform within the ranks of the Grant Park Orchestra and Chorus, and receive one-on-one mentoring from seasoned professionals. Performing in parks and community centers around the city, the Festival fellows serve as an integral part of the Festival's summer lineup. They provide daily musical demonstrations within the Classical Campers program, participate as members of the Grant Park Orchestra and Chorus, perform throughout the city via the Chicago Park District's Night Out in the Parks program, and gain valuable experience in public speaking, ensemble work, and the management of a busy music career.
2026 Festival String Fellows
2026 Festival Vocal Fellows
Festival Fellowship Alumni
Event Sponsors
The Festival’s String and Vocal Fellowships and Night Out in the Parks performances are generously supported by Dr. Scholl Foundation, Alice Cooperman, Colleen and Lloyd Fry and the Lloyd A. Fry Foundation, the Hanson Community Connections Fund, the Jentes Family Violin Fellowship Fund, Jeffrey Lewis, Mazza Foundation, Nancy Meyerson (In Memory of Al Lewis), and the Sandra and Earl J. Rusnak, Jr. Cello Fellowship Fund.