SVMF receives statewide recognition as arts inspiration

Gov. Ralph Northam and SVMF Director Dennis Lynch

WOODSTOCK  — Shenandoah Valley Music Festival, a nonprofit concert presenter based in Woodstock and Orkney Springs, was one of 50 arts organizations honored by Virginia Commission for the Arts during its 50th Anniversary Program in Richmond on Thursday.

SVMF Executive Director Dennis Lynch and SVMF Chairwoman Leigh Devier attended the program at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts to accept a 50 for 50 Arts Inspiration Award. The awards were given to organizations and individuals who have made significant contributions to the arts in Virginia. Award recipients fell into five categories. SVMF was one of eight recipients chosen for the category of Exemplary Program and Pinnacle Events. Winners in this category have programs and events from the past 50 years that have demonstrated artistic excellence, celebrated diversity, offered outreach to underserved populations, engaged community partners and developed a visionary or innovative approach to their program or event, according to the VCA. Other award categories include Bedrock Institutions; Emerging Artists and Organizations; Arts Leaders and Supporters; and Outstanding Artists.

A panel comprised of former VCA commissioners and arts leaders chose the 50 award recipients from among 350 nominations. In addition to the anniversary program on Thursday, the award recipients were also honored at a reception hosted by former Gov. Terry McAuliffe and former First Lady Dorothy McAuliffe at the Executive Mansion in October.

The Shenandoah Valley Music Festival was founded 55 years ago as a presenter of symphonic music. Since then, it has diversified its concert offerings to include performances by nationally and regionally recognized artists from a variety of genres, including rock, country, folk, Americana and bluegrass.