The NAMM Foundation Sponsors Music Week at Chautauqua Institution
Week of music lectures and events at summer retreat intended to expose the public to the joys and benefits of making music
The NAMM Foundation sponsored a week of music lectures and events this week at the Chautauqua Institution to support the association’s dedication to communities and organizations making more music.
The Chautauqua Institution offers more than 170,000 guests a nine-week summer retreat program that encompasses lectures and activities involving arts, education, religion and recreation. As part of the 2007 summer series, week eight (August 12–18) featured a program that immersed guests in the meaning and impact of music.
Some of the featured events this week were a performance by the Infinity Big Band & Jazz Project; a lecture by JoAnn Falletta, music director of the Buffalo Philharmonic; an appearance by folk singer, author and artist Judy Collins who shared her experiences and views about music’s healing power; and a presentation by Aaron Dworkin of the Sphinx Organization who shared Sphinx’s commitment to creating opportunities for African American and Latino classical string players.
Among many other activities, two live drum circles were held on Wednesday; Daniel Levitin, associate professor of psychology at McGill University and author, gave a presentation called “This Is Your Brain on Music” on Thursday; and a presentation by Peter Gelb of the Metropolitan Opera in New York City concluded the daily lecture program on Friday.
“Music is a vital element of the Chautauqua experience and tradition,” said Mary Luehrsen, director of public affairs and government relations at NAMM. “The NAMM Foundation is proud to help sponsor the week of stimulating presentations, concerts and hands-on music-making events. We look forward to reaching out to more people of all ages, and encouraging them to experience the joys and benefits of making music.”
Chautauqua Institution’s music-focused summer program is due in large part to the involvement of former NAMM Chairman Bob Fletcher, who saw an opportunity for the two organizations to work together to expose attendees to the wonders and effects of music in people’s lives.
To view a list of events that happened during Music Week at the Chautauqua Institution, go to 
www.ciweb.org/week8.html.
About The NAMM Foundation
The NAMM Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing active participation in music making across the lifespan by supporting scientific research, philanthropic giving and public service programs from the international music products industry.