GREENSBORO — The Eastern Music Festival Board announced on Oct. 6 it has voted to dissolve the Triad’s prestigious 64-year-old music program. The move comes after two years of tension between the board and unionized professional musicians who serve as the festival’s teachers.

The board canceled the festival’s 2025 summer program in March, leaving more than 900 applicants from around the world and its instructors in limbo. The move shook the local community and the international music scene.

When the board cancelled the 2025 EMF season, Executive Director Chris Williams promised the program’s return in 2026. “During this year’s pause, we will be planning for the return of the festival in 2026 with our focus remaining on educating students to the highest musical standards — and in hopes th

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