Matinee Musicale Incorporated

The world's finest musicians, heard in intimate concert settings and teaching local music students: this has been our mission for a century.

Over a century ago, a group of musicians in Duluth gathered to form Matinee Musicale. These women wanted to bring the best in chamber music to their city. Many of them also taught music, and wanted their students to experience and learn from great musicians. Over the years, Matinee has brought such wonderful musicians as Jose Iturbi, Paul Robeson, Pablo Casals, Leif Ove Andsness, and many more to Duluth. Our wonderful artists' committee reviews recordings all year, and chooses from the best young musicians in the world a roster of four to perform. Added to this is a fifth concert of the winners of the scholarships that Matinee Musicale also provides. These scholarships for music students are only a small part of our educational role. Our concerts are accessibly priced for everyone, but our student tickets are only $6. No matter how limited a music-loving student's budget, the best music is available to him or her through Matinee Musicale. Also, many of the musicians we bring to Duluth hold master classes for music students. These are free, and can provide the extra guidance and inspiriration that can truly make a difference. In addition to this, we provide "campships": financial help for students who attend intensive summer music camps. We do this with very little administrative overhead, as most staff are volunteers: dedicated musicians and professionals who give their time to sustain the tradition of great music. Ninety percent of our budget is spent on program, and only ten percent on administrative costs.