2019 CMS International Conference

I am delighted to welcome you all to the 2019 College Music Society International Conference!

My first ever CMS International Conference unfolded in the three distinct cities of Zagreb, Split, and Dubrovnik, Croatia, and I am excited to return to this multi-city approach in Belgium. We begin in the bustling and diverse city of Brussels, headquarters for both NATO and the European Union, then make our way west to Ghent before finishing in charming Bruges. In each city, we will take part in guided sight-seeing activities, hear conference presentations and performances, and have built-in free time to explore each city on your own. Don’t forget to enjoy some of the things Belgium is especially known for—waffles, fries, chocolate, and beer!

While in Ghent, we will hear Barbara Haggh-Huglo deliver a keynote address about “Music Education in Ghent, 800-1559” and enjoy the first of our CMS Composer’s Concerts, which will take place in Lully Hall, a beautiful room at the Ghent Opera House. You’ll have time to check out The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb, Gravensteen, the many medieval churches, or take a ride on one of the many canal cruises.

A special side trip will be our stop at the Chris Maene Piano Workshop and Historical Instrument Museum, where we will get to see (and try!) many fortepianos by makers like Stein, Walter, Clementi, Graf, Broadwood, and Pleyel, as well as their Straight Strung Grand Piano. We will also hear our second keynote address on the differences between modern and historical pianos, by fortepianist Wim Van Moerbeke.

Fans of the movie In Bruges will appreciate the opportunity to see the famous Belfry, and climb its narrow, steep staircase (366 steps), and all will be treated to a concert by the town carillonneur that includes a premiere by CMS composer Tim Thompson. We will hear new and old at the Concertgebouw, with the second CMS Composer’s Concert, and a performance by early music group Bach Plus.

I am confident you will find this a rewarding conference, both professionally and personally.

Nicholas Phillips
Program Chair