HCMF is a youth festival for middle and high school-aged students in Washington state’s Whatcom, Skagit, San Juan, and Island counties.
The festival embodies our desire to create a vibrant learning space where students, guided by professional musicians, expand their musical experiences in a collaborative and intensive setting that develops advanced communication skills and celebrates the joy of music making.
Come join us!
Jennifer Weeks ~ Director, HCMF
The festival consists of two distinct events — details below.
Many Thanks to Our Festival Sponsors
Testimonials
“The fact that the festival was packed with a diverse group of kids, all enthusiastic and eager to play and learn is a beautiful testament to the power of music.”
– Parent
“I thought the HCMF was really educational and I got an experience that I wouldn’t have gotten at school or any other private group in this area.”
– Student
“All the coaches were very knowledgeable and very fun to work with. The acoustics in the theater were great and it really made the other performers’ pieces shine, too.”
– Student
“The caliber of teaching was reflected by the quality of the music developed by students over a very short time period, which resulted in a beautiful concert on Sunday afternoon.”
– Parent
“Playing for other groups was very helpful – helped get out the nerves.”
“Loved every bit of the weekend and can’t wait until next year.”
“Really liked playing in the orchestra.”
“Loved playing chamber music.”
“Loved the juggling and the music!”
— 2026 Harmony Students
Harmony Chamber Music Festival: Two Events
Students/ensembles are welcome to apply to one or both events.
Youth Chamber Music Weekend
TBD 2027
Heiner Hall, Whatcom Community College
Applications have closed for 2026. Look out for dates for 2027!
This immersive two-day program for intermediate through advanced strings and advanced winds, brass and pianists is designed to encourage students in the art of chamber music and foster collaboration, creativity and musical excellence. Students can apply as a preformed ensemble or as an individual (individuals will be placed in a group).
- Applying is free
- Professional coaching
- Sessions focused on musicianship, rehearsal technique and performance technique
- Public performance on last day
- $250 tuition (Pay what you can tuition levels available)
Youth Chamber Music Competition
TBD 2027
Heiner Theatre, Whatcom Community College
Applications have closed for 2026. Look out for dates for 2027!
An opportunity for advanced student chamber music ensembles to perform in a competitive setting and receive adjudication and prizes. At least one member of the ensemble must be a resident of an eligible county.
- Applying is free
- Ensembles of 2-6 players
- Public competition performance
- Top prize of $1000
- $60 registration fee
Financial Aid
We believe in equity and access to educational programs for students and are committed to helping those accepted into the program with partial or full tuition assistance if needed.
Support HCMF!
If you’re able, please consider donating to the Harmony Chamber Music Festival so we can continue to offset tuition costs to families.
Questions
Have a look at the most frequent questions about the festival.