
About the Festival
Set in the scenic mountain town of Dunsmuir, California, the Pacific Crest Music Festival (PCMF) is an immersive and highly selective summer chamber music program for passionate young musicians ages 18 and up. Each year, a small cohort of hand-selected student artists from around the world is invited to rehearse, perform, and grow alongside our world-class professional faculty.
With an exceptional student-to-faculty ratio of approximately 4:1, PCMF offers an intensely personalized experience. Students receive individualized attention through private lessons, faculty-led coachings, masterclasses, solo opportunities, and side-by-side performances—all designed to help each artist push beyond their current limits and unlock new levels of musicianship.
PCMF fosters a collaborative, inspiring, and supportive environment where students and faculty work together in both small and large ensembles. Many chamber groups feature a mix of students and faculty, allowing participants to experience firsthand the professionalism, communication, and artistry required at the highest levels of performance.
In addition to a full calendar of public concerts, outreach events, and faculty performances, the festival concludes with a celebratory day exploring the natural beauty of Northern California—visiting iconic spots like Castle Lake, Mossbrae Falls, and Mt. Shasta.
We welcome auditions from collegiate and advanced high school musicians who are serious about chamber music and ready for a deeply engaging artistic journey.
For audition information, concert details, or general inquiries—including how to support or host a PCMF performance—please contact us directly.
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Faculty cellist Laura Gaynon rehearses with the Festival Orchestra

Celebrating after the show