The Geneva Music Festival Cultivates Community and Inspires Generations

Music is undeniably powerful. Sharon Arthur certainly knew that when she agreed to serve on the Geneva Music Festival Board six years ago. But what she didn’t yet fully realize was that the true power of music went far beyond the sounds and dynamics of the performances themselves. In that first season she served on the Board, she attended every concert — and found herself enchanted not just by the music, but by its ability to connect people.

“It captured me from the very beginning,” she says. “I was in awe of the whole experience.”

Her instant connection to the music quickly deepened into a belief in the festival’s broader mission to engage diverse audiences of all ages in the arts. Over the years, the festival expanded its programming, adding more concerts, reaching a wider audience, and attracting artists of the highest caliber.

“I’ve watched the festival grow all these years,” she explains. “The bar has been raised in both the program itself and the caliber of the artists that participate. It’s been an exciting journey.”

Her passion for community outreach, particularly youth engagement, has been a cornerstone of her work with the festival. She is a firm believer in the transformative power of music, offering rewards that extend far beyond the stage.

“There are numerous benefits, intellectually, emotionally, spiritually…,” she says. “And when you see young people connecting with the music — it’s magical.”

One of her most meaningful memories comes from a performance at the West Street School in Geneva, offered as part of the festival’s community outreach programming. A group of 400 students, many of whom had never heard live classical music before, sat captivated, completely absorbed by the experience.

“You’ve never seen such an attentive audience. It was silent … and in a room full of first and second graders,” she laughs. “They were hearing music in a genre they don’t typically hear on the radio or at home, and they were captivated.”

For Sharon, those moments when music opens new doors for young people are what make the festival so special.

“When kids see what’s possible for them, when they can imagine music as part of their lives, it fills my heart.”

During her time as president, Sharon led the organization through its first-ever endowment campaign. Her leadership and vision helped raise funds that not only secured the long-term sustainability of the festival, but also positioned Geneva as an arts-focused community. The campaign raised significant support, establishing a solid financial foundation that has allowed the Geneva Music Festival, now in its 15th year, to continue to thrive.

“The festival lives and breathes and has its own energy. I find myself anticipating what’s next, and that’s what makes it so exciting,” she says.

Even now, Sharon remains deeply involved in the endowment committee, maintaining her commitment to the festival’s continued presence in Geneva. 

“I always encourage people to give joyfully, to support causes that are meaningful to them,” she shares. “We should all be giving of our time, our talent, and our treasures.”

The festival is an exceptional musical event, and it’s also a community connector — a place where art, talent, and generosity mix to create lasting impact. 

“I donate to the festival,” she adds, “but I always receive more than I give. There is magic in this work.”

Through Sharon’s leadership, her dedication to community outreach, and her generous giving, the Geneva Music Festival has become an event that will continue to enrich Geneva for years to come.

Sharon’s experience illustrates the profound impact that your support can have on our community. We believe that access to great art should be a right for all, not just a privilege for a select few. Our programs ensure that everyone can experience the transformative power of live music.

Your donations, no matter the amount, help us create transformative musical experiences for all.