Cellist Dmitri Atapine and Pianist Hyeyeon Park have been appointed as the next Artistic Directors at Music@Menlo, taking over from the festival’s founders, cellist David Finckel and pianist Wu Han. The announcement marks a significant transition for the prestigious festival, which was established in 2003 and is now entering its 25th anniversary season.
Atapine and Park, who have been actively involved with Music@Menlo since 2009, bring a wealth of experience and expertise to their new roles. They have been directing the Music@Menlo Smith Family Young Performers Program since 2020 and have been integral members of the festival’s faculty for many years.
Besides their contributions to Music@Menlo, Atapine and Park have established themselves as leading figures in the classical music world. Atapine, a top prizewinner at several prestigious competitions, has a diverse discography and has performed with renowned orchestras around the globe. Park, on the other hand, has showcased her exceptional talent with various orchestras and has built a strong reputation as a dynamic pianist.
Both Atapine and Park have demonstrated their commitment to music education and community engagement through their roles as artistic directors of the Friends of Chamber Music Kansas City and founders of Apex Concerts in Reno. Their tenure as professors at the University of Nevada further underscores their dedication to nurturing the next generation of musicians.
The duo’s appointment as Artistic Directors at Music@Menlo signals a new chapter for the festival, with Finckel and Han set to pass the baton after the 2026 summer season. The transition is a testament to Atapine and Park’s artistic vision and leadership, as well as their deep connection to the festival’s mission and values.
As they prepare to take on their new roles, Atapine and Park are poised to bring fresh perspectives and innovative programming to Music@Menlo, ensuring that the festival continues to thrive and inspire audiences for years to come. Their combined talents and passion for chamber music make them ideal successors to Finckel and Han, and their appointment heralds an exciting new era for one of the country’s premier chamber music festivals.
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