How One Partnership Is Changing the Way Residents Experience the Arts
At VMRC, aging well means continuing to learn, explore, create, and connect. Whether through lifelong hobbies, educational programs, volunteer opportunities, or cultural experiences, residents are encouraged to live fully and remain engaged with the world around them. That philosophy is one reason VMRC has long valued the arts as an important part of community life.
When the Shenandoah Valley Bach Festival (SVBF) became an independent organization, VMRC played an important role in helping ensure the festival's future by becoming the season sponsor. VMRC is proud to support a high-quality music organization that has enriched the Shenandoah Valley for decades. Beyond sponsorship, the strategic partnership between VMRC and SVBF reflects a shared belief that music and creative inventions have the power to bring people together and move communities forward.
When the Festival Comes to Campus
As the primary strategic partner, VMRC's partnership with the Bach Festival not only helps to bring residents to several concerts during the weeklong festival in June, but it also creates opportunities to bring the artistry of SVBF musicians to VMRC's campus.
In March of this year, SVBF Artistic Director David Berry presented a lecture recital at VMRC, offering deep and personal insights into his published book of hymn arrangements entitled Since Jesus Came Into My Heart. A month later, VMRC hosted the Bach Festival's Spring Salon Concert, featuring an inspiring slate of performances by tenor Jordan Davidson, violinist Wanchi Huang, cellist Kelley Mikkelsen, and pianist Harold Bailey.
Experiencing Creative Inventions Firsthand
This year's theme, Creative Inventions, celebrated innovation and imagination through music and gave residents the chance to experience world-class performances alongside audiences from across the Valley. Throughout the festival, residents attended several performances, enjoying exceptional music while taking part in one of the Shenandoah Valley's signature cultural events.
The festival fostered a sense of camaraderie among residents and musicians. Following one of the concerts, many had the chance to meet and speak with the performers, gaining a deeper appreciation for their craft and hearing firsthand about the music they performed. Those personal interactions added another layer of meaning to an already memorable afternoon.
A New Setting for Bach Festival Concerts
The partnership between VMRC and the Shenandoah Valley Bach Festival will continue well beyond festival week. Plans are already underway for “Bach of the Farm”, a unique outdoor event that will bring festival musicians to VMRC's The Farm this fall.
Set against the backdrop of the farm's scenic landscape, the event will combine the beauty of the outdoors with live classical music to create a truly distinctive experience for residents and guests. It is another example of how the partnership continues to evolve, finding creative ways to connect people with the arts.
The Power of Participation
For decades, VMRC has recognized that a vibrant community is shaped not only by where people live, but by the experiences that are available to them. Supporting the arts is one way VMRC continues to invest in a fuller, richer quality of life for residents and for the Shenandoah Valley as a whole.
As a season sponsor of the Shenandoah Valley Bach Festival, VMRC is proud to help sustain a cultural tradition that has touched generations. The partnership reflects a shared commitment to lifelong learning, meaningful connection, and the belief that music has the power to enrich lives at every stage of life. Through concerts, educational programs, artist interactions, and special events, residents can continue discovering new perspectives and engaging with the arts in meaningful ways. Together, VMRC and the Bach Festival will continue to ensure these experiences remain a treasured part of community life for years to come.
