About

music.NEXT empowers the next generation of classical musicians through immersive performance, mentorship, and community engagement. By connecting students with world-class artists, fostering bold musical exploration, and situating learning in vibrant cultural settings, we prepare young performers not only for the stage—but for meaningful, lasting artistic lives.

I first met David Bilger through his online program during COVID. Though we were separated by miles and screens, it quickly became clear that we saw the world—and the purpose of music—in much the same way. What began as a collegial exchange grew into a deep artistic partnership rooted in shared values, mutual respect, and a vision for what music education could be.

In building music.NEXT, David and I have logged countless hours in planning—on Zoom calls, late-night emails, and long phone conversations. We’ve encountered our share of roadblocks, and more than a few people told us this kind of program simply wasn’t possible. But we kept going. Why? Because we believe something essential is missing from many of the experiences young musicians are offered today—and we wanted to build a program that restores it.

There are many trumpet seminars out there—and more every year. But what we believe sets music.NEXT apart is not just the level of artistry, but the character and judgment behind every decision, and our unwavering commitment to the music itself.

David and I share a core belief: music is not transactional. It is not a commodity to be performed, polished, and passed around for approval. We believe in the power of individual expression. We believe that real musical growth comes from an inspired, open, and sometimes even meditative stance toward the work—one that makes space for experimentation, self-awareness, and vulnerability.

music.NEXT is our offering to the next generation of classical musicians: a space to be challenged, yes—but also a space to be seen, to be nourished, and to grow in ways that are artistically and personally meaningful.

Thank you for being a part of it.

Sincerely,

Dr. Andrew Harms

Program Director, music.NEXT