On Monday, Durango’s Music in the Mountains Festival announced that renowned violinist Vadim Gluzman has been appointed as its new Artistic Director.
Established in 1987 by conductor Mischa Semanitzky, Music in the Mountains is a summer festival held in Durango, Colorado, near the “Four Corners” where Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, and Utah meet. Gluzman takes over from Guillermo Figueroa, who stepped down after serving as Music Director since 2007.
Gluzman, originally from Ukraine and an Israeli citizen residing in the U.S., is an internationally acclaimed violinist and recording artist. He is also a co-founder of the North Shore Chamber Music Festival in Chicago and performs on the 1690 “ex-Auer” Stradivari, loaned by the Stradivari Society of Chicago.
Having first participated in the Music in the Mountains Conservatory in 1997, under the direction of his teacher Arkady Fomin, Gluzman has been a cherished presence at the festival for nearly 30 years, excelling as a soloist, director, and chamber musician.
“I am deeply honored and thrilled to join Music in the Mountains as its Artistic Director,” Gluzman remarked. “The festival boasts a rich tradition of delivering world-class music against Colorado’s stunning backdrop. I am eager to contribute to and expand upon its legacy. Personally, it’s a full-circle moment as I first performed here nearly three decades ago and have always cherished my returns.”
Gluzman sees his appointment as a significant milestone, promising to engage with Durango’s vibrant community through innovative programming, nurturing young talent, and highlighting exceptional artistry. “I am confident that we will elevate the festival through new and exciting initiatives,” he added.
Over the years, Music in the Mountains has evolved from a small festival with 11 performers and five concerts to a major four-week event featuring full orchestra, chamber, and pops concerts, hosted at Fort Lewis College and various other venues. The next festival is scheduled for July 10 – August 3, 2025.
Board President Sheryl Kaufman expressed enthusiasm about Gluzman’s appointment, stating, “Vadim Gluzman’s artistic vision, remarkable talent, and dedication to high-quality music make him the ideal choice to lead our festival forward. We are excited about the new heights he will help us reach.”
As Artistic Director, Gluzman will oversee the festival’s programming, attract top musicians, and ensure its continued success. “His esteemed reputation and broad network will enhance the festival’s profile nationally and internationally. His dedication to education and outreach aligns perfectly with our mission to cultivate the next generation of classical musicians and expand community access to the arts,” noted Executive Director Angie Beach. “Mr. Gluzman’s deep connection with the festival bridges our rich history with an ambitious vision for the future.”
In his first move as Artistic Director, Gluzman plans to appoint Daniel Raiskin as the 2025 season’s Conductor-in-Residence. Raiskin, who is the Principal Conductor of the Slovak Philharmonic Orchestra, Music Director of the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra, and Principal Guest Conductor of the Belgrade Philharmonic Orchestra, will bring his distinguished expertise to the festival.
