Inviting you to make your next musical discovery

Music Worcester has been bringing world-renowned musicians and ensembles to Central Massachusetts since its founding in 1858. Today, the organization is a leader in the region’s cultural landscape and frequently partners with other arts organizations, schools, and community groups to provide access to unique musical experiences for audiences of all ages and backgrounds. We regularly present world-renowned orchestras, soloists, and ensembles from the worlds of classical, jazz, folk, global music, and dance.

Music Worcester’s education and outreach initiatives include in-school workshops and masterclasses, and free and reduced-price tickets through its Tickets to Opportunity program. In 2026 and 2027, Dr. Everett McCorvey will serve as the Artist-in-Residence, a program that establishes deep community relationships with an individual artist.

In 2024, Music Worcester launched THE COMPLETE BACH, an 11-year project to present live performances of all J.S. Bach’s known works. The Worcester Chorus, also formed in 1858, plays an important role in every Music Worcester season.

Originally known as the Worcester County Music Association, the organization produced a week-long Worcester Music Festival for over 100 years. In 1976, the festival changed its format, expanding to a full season of programming, and in 1996, merged with the International Artists Series and the MA Jazz Festival to form the Music Worcester we know today. Read more about our history.

Photo Gallery

A flute player and several other musicians on stage against a blue background.

Emi Ferguson & Ruckus perform at the BrickBox theater at JMAC. July 2025. Photo by Troy B. Thompson.

Chris Shepard conducts during Cantatathon, as part of THE COMPLETE BACH. Photo by Brandon Johnson.

A pianist and cellist play on stage

Pianist Simone Dinnerstein and Cellist Alexis Gerlach at Mechanics Hall as part of BACHtoberfest. October 2025. Photo by Cole Parks.

A string ensemble on stage

Sphinx Virtuosi at Prior Performing Arts Center in April 2025. Photo by Troy B. Thompson.

A group seated at a bookstore listening to a speaker

Chris Shepard and Mark Mummert discussing Bach at Tidepool Bookshop, February 2025

Student musicians in a group in a classroom

Mnozil Brass at South High Community School, March 2024

A close up of conductor leading an orchestra

Conductor Cristian Măcelaru leading the Orchestre National de France at Mechanics Hall, November 2025. Photo by Matt Wright.

A large orchestra on stage in a large hall

The Orchestre National de France on stage at Mechanics Hall, November 2025. Photo by Matt Wright.

A trumpet player, seen from behind, playing for a row of audience members

Rodney Marsalis comes in to the audience during his Philadelphia Big Brass concert at Mechanic’s Hall in January 2025. Photo by Matt Wright.

A student playing a cello with an instructor standing near by

Zlatomir Fung with students at Westboro High School, October 2024

A large chorus on stage singing.

The annual production of Handel's Messiah at Mechanics Hall.

A group of students wearing all black standing in a lobby

Abby Kelley Foster students with Time for Three after the performance at the BrickBox Theater at JMAC, May 2025

A conductor and singers

Chris Shepard conducts the Worcester Chorus of Music Worcester. Photo by Brandon Johnson.

A flute player and several other musicians on stage against a blue background.
A pianist and cellist play on stage
A string ensemble on stage
A group seated at a bookstore listening to a speaker
Student musicians in a group in a classroom
A close up of conductor leading an orchestra
A large orchestra on stage in a large hall
A trumpet player, seen from behind, playing for a row of audience members
A student playing a cello with an instructor standing near by
A large chorus on stage singing.
A group of students wearing all black standing in a lobby
A conductor and singers

Our Mission

Music Worcester presents inspiring musical experiences and educational opportunities throughout Central Massachusetts.

Our Vision

Music Worcester will enrich the cultural landscape, welcome audiences from all communities, and nurture a deep connection between artist and audience.

Our Values

Music Worcester…

Serves as a cultural pillar of the arts community, bringing the highest quality performers to stages across Central MA.

Is committed to providing outstanding audience experiences before, during, and after performances.

Creates engaging learning experiences in the performing arts for all ages.

Believes in mutual respect and support, forging a team of staff, volunteers, and artists serving the organization’s mission and vision.

Welcomes and engages with diverse audiences reflective of our community through educational opportunities and performances across Central MA.

Values collaboration with educational and community partners, always practicing two-way communication.

Honors the importance of classical music while maintaining an expansive view of music in its diverse genres and eras.

Values the critical importance of improving inclusive and equitable practices as a cultural arts organization, including membership of the Board of Directors, staff, and The Worcester Chorus.

EIN: 04-2171207

To view our most recent Form 990, please visit Music Worcester’s ProPublica page

To request a physical copy of Music Worcester’s Annual Report, most recent audit, or Form 990, please contact Lisa Utzig.