Hilltop String Festival

Hilltop String Festival 2025 (June 13–20) at Western Kentucky University was an immersive, week‑long string music experience for dedicated violin, viola, and cello students aged 12–18. Participants engaged in private lessons, technique classes, chamber music coaching, and masterclasses led by renowned faculty, culminating in solo and ensemble performances in both university venues and a community concert at the Historic Railpark, fostering musical growth and vibrant community connection.

Highlights & Noteworthy Moments

Elite Instruction & Daily Routines
Students advanced their skills through a rich schedule: private lessons, technique training, musicianship, chamber rehearsals, practice coaching, and performance classes, taught by world-renowned faculty from various locations across the globe.
Community Performance at Historic Railpark
The festival’s hallmark was an open-to-the-public concert at the Historic Railpark on June 19, bringing together schoolchildren, seniors, and music lovers as performers shared the universal language of music.
Passion Driven Recitals and Concerts
The week featured an exciting lineup of performances that highlighted both guest artists and student musicians. The series began with a powerful Faculty and Guest Artist Recital on Friday, June 13, followed by an engaging solo performance by violinist and composer David Rose on Saturday, June 14. Tuesday, June 17th showcased a performance by the talented and engaging Hilltop faculty. On Wednesday, June 19, the festival presented a unique concert at the Historic RailPark & Train Museum, blending music with local heritage in a memorable setting. That same evening, electric violin pioneer Tracey Silverman took the stage for an electrifying performance that captivated audiences. The festival concluded with a Final Student Concert, showcasing all participants in a variety of solo and ensemble performances, celebrating their hard work and musical growth throughout the week.