VERMONT Magazine Holiday/Winter 2025/2026 | Page 50

Music on the Mountain
Music on the Mountain
The collaboration between Walter and Andai began not through formal introduction, but through a convergence of vision and circumstance— two paths shaped by music that met on the mountain. Andai, already deeply entwined with KMF, was performing with violinist Joseph Silverstein and the KMF Orchestra, conducted by Alondra de la Parra, when Walter attended. It was, as Andai describes it, a serendipitous moment when his and Walter’ s interests converged, each drawn to Killington by a shared belief in the transformative power of music.
From that first encounter, a friendship took root that eventually grew into collaboration.“ I was immediately drawn to Luc’ s love for music and helping others,” Andai recalls.“ I saw
that he wasn’ t simply an observer; he was a builder, a creator, and he wanted to help.” Walter, who became one of KMF’ s most steadfast supporters, recognized in Andai a rare blend of artistry and leadership— a well-rounded musician who understood both the technical precision required for chamber music and the community he could( and would) foster.
Their partnership deepened over time. As Andai continued his work as a performer, conductor, educator, and music administrator, Walter became not only a benefactor but a collaborator, helping to sustain the organization through its latest seasons.“ Luc was very clear that the transfer of musical knowledge from one generation to the next was an evident passion,” Andai notes.“ His support was critical and pivotal for the Festival and its participants.” When the Festival’ s board decided to conclude its operations in 2024, both men felt that the music— and the legacy it represented— deserved to live on.“ My wish to be of musical service to the Killington area never waned,” says Andai.“ And that’ s when Luc and I united and said,‘ Let’ s keep it going.’” From that resolve came the idea for Killington. Music.
Their partnership bridges artistry and philanthropy, idealism and pragmatism. Walter brings the logistical acumen and visionary scope drawn from his years as a globally influential corporate executive at Amphenol. Andai brings interpretive insight and artistic mastery as a musician, educator, arts administrator, and conductor across five continents— and as Dean of Music at New World School of the
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