Our Mission

OMI is dedicated to providing world-class musical opportunities for students outside the music major track, guiding them toward the discovery and cultivation of their individual artistic voices. Through mentorship by acclaimed musicians affiliated with leading orchestras and conservatories, students develop not only technical proficiency but also confidence in their musical capabilities.

As an international festival, OMI unites students from diverse cultural backgrounds, fostering an inspiring environment of communication, collaboration, and mutual inspiration. Through the study and performance of chamber music, we seek to encourage curiosity, facilitate intercultural communication, and promote a lifelong appreciation for the arts.

Our Program

The Overture Music Intensive (OMI) warmly invites aspiring violin, viola, cello, piano, and clarinet students aged 10 and above to join us in New York City for an 11-day intensive classical music study, guided by world-class musicians and faculty from leading music institutions. Our distinguished faculty and masterclass guest artists include members from renowned symphony orchestras and prestigious music conservatories, such as Benjamin Bowman (Concertmaster of the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra), Stella Chen (Violin Professor at the Juilliard School), and Ole Akahoshi (Cello Faculty at Yale School of Music).

Our teaching philosophy centers on nurturing students’ listening, collaboration, and communication skills through immersive chamber music study with our faculty members. Along with improving musical performance skills, we aim to inspire students to discover their unique voice and deepen their understanding of musicianship.

OMI Program Structure

• Warm-Up Classes
  Each day begins with group warm-ups that get our students ready for practice, rehearsal, and lessons. Students will work on basics such as scales and etudes to improve technique and sound, along with physical exercises to start the day positively.

• Individual Lessons
  Receive private lessons from our faculty to enhance performance skills and deepen musicianship, ensuring consistent and steady progress throughout the entire program.

• Chamber Music Coaching
  Collaborate with other students and faculty in chamber music, working immersively to enhance your ensemble performance skills, improve communication, and hearing.

• Masterclasses
  Rare and exciting opportunities to perform in public masterclasses, guided by our renowned guest artists, and receive feedback that will nourish your musical development.

• Public Performance Opportunities
  Gain stage experience and share your progress through public dress rehearsals, culminating in the experience of a lifetime: the final concert at Carnegie Hall.

• Social Activities

  • Sightreading Party: Enjoy sightreading sessions with your friends and teachers in a fun and inspiring environment!

  • Sports and Activities: Engage in activities from ping pong and running to team sports such as tennis and soccer to enrich your physical wellness at OMI.

  • NYC Schools and City Tours: Explore cultural highlights and visit local NYC schools to connect with other young musicians in the area.