.png)
Since 1979, Otter Creek Music Festival has provided world-class chamber music of all kinds for the benefit of the communities along the banks of Otter Creek.
Originally known as the Salisbury Summer Series, it was established by architectural historian and Middlebury College professor, Glenn Andres, in collaboration with the Salisbury Congregational Church and Point Counterpoint Camp in honor of the Salisbury Church's 140th anniversary. In 2022, Glenn invited musician and arts administrator Joshua Glassman to take the reins and expand the series into a festival format while preserving its beloved community charm.
The Festival remains a cherished gathering for regional and summer audiences, offering a diverse repertoire spanning classical, folk, jazz, and theatrical performances. Notable past events include the farewell concert of acclaimed cellist Elsa Hilger, the first female assistant principal in the United States with the Philadelphia Orchestra, as well as appearances by Metropolitan Opera soprano Meredith Parsons. A cornerstone of the Festival's success is its enduring partnership with Point CounterPoint Camp, now in its sixth decade, with camp faculty regularly showcasing their talents at the Salisbury Meeting House.
In 2023, Otter Creek Music Festival expanded its horizons by obtaining a fiscal sponsorship with Barn Opera in Brandon, Vermont. This collaboration propelled the Festival to regional prominence, offering exceptional performances in two remarkable venues—the historic 1838 Meeting House and the venerable Barn Opera House, both renowned for their intimate ambiance and superb acoustics.
In March 2024, after 45 years, Otter Creek Music Festival achieved a significant milestone by becoming an independent nonprofit arts organization. This transformative step was made possible through the generosity of the Board of Directors of the Compass Music and Arts Foundation, who entrusted the leadership of their esteemed organization to Team Otter of OCMF. This momentous occasion not only marked a new chapter for the Festival but also ensured its stability and growth, enabling continued support and promotion of local and regional artists for years to come.
Looking ahead, Otter Creek Music Festival seeks to grow into the region's premier summer chamber music series, bringing artists from all acoustic genres to the towns and communities along Otter Creek between Rutland and Vergennes.