New Ground Orchestra Festival: Free Concert Celebrates Female Musicians, Mental Health Support in State College

The New Ground Orchestra Festival in State College will culminate in a free final concert at Penn State’s School of Music Recital Hall on July 31, featuring an inclusive program with works by both male and female composers.

Over 50 professional women from around the world gather for several days of wellness, community, and preparation ahead of the concert.

Last year’s inaugural event focused on collaboration and storytelling; this year the festival grows larger, adds volunteering with local nonprofits Plowshare Produce and Taproot Kitchen, and includes a public performance.

Stefania de Kenessey, highlighted this year for her piece Microvids, notes that women’s confidence should be expressed without bravado, addressing broader biases in conducting and composition.