Music in May was founded in 1948 at Pacific University by Richard A. Greenfield to encourage the development of string music in the public schools of the Pacific Northwest. Band and choir were added at the suggestion of high school music directors, who saw in the festival a means of recognizing students whose service to their particular schools was especially noteworthy.
Each year the number of nominees for places at Music in May far exceeds the number who can be accepted. Housing limitations and the natural requirements of each ensemble result in over 500 participants each year, approximately 300 in the choir, 170 in the band, and 80 in the orchestra.
Participants' achievements in three days, under distinguished guest conductors culminating in the Saturday afternoon concert, represent not only their own efforts, but those of approximately 170 high school directors who have developed their students’ talents and recommended them for Music in May.
Selection Process
From applications submitted by the deadline, participants are selected based on recommendations and ratings of their high school director. Once nominated and selected, students are committed to join the festival as a hand-selected member of their ensemble.
Instrumentation/voicing needs of the ensembles are also taken into account. After students are selected, music directors will receive acceptance letters and final registration forms.