A beloved summer tradition is entering a new chapter. MacPhail Center for Music will conclude its formal leadership of Madeline Island Chamber Music (MICM) after the 2026 season, but a new nonprofit will be established to operate the program.
FAQs
What’s happening with Madeline Island Chamber Music?
After five seasons of partnership, MacPhail Center for Music will conclude its formal stewardship of MICM following the 2026 season. This decision, approved by MacPhail’s Board of Directors, is part of a broader strategic plan to deepen the organization’s impact within the Twin Cities metro area.
Why is this change happening?
MICM has always been a distinct program—both geographically and programmatically. As MacPhail narrows its focus to the Twin Cities metro region, this transition creates space for MICM to return to its roots as a community-supported program on Madeline Island. MacPhail leadership is confident this community ownership will sustain and strengthen the legacy of MICM for years to come.
What does this mean for 2026?
The 2026 season will move forward as planned led by Artistic Director Jonathan Swartz with MacPhail’s full support. Program details will be announced early this fall, and we look forward to celebrating a remarkable season of music together.
Are donations still needed?
Yes. Donor support has always been and will continue to be critical to making the 2026 season and future seasons possible—for students, faculty, and the Island community—whether it be under MacPhail’s leadership or future seasons as a community-led organization. We’re profoundly grateful for the generosity and involvement that have sustained MICM and we hope you’ll continue to stand with the program as a donor, concertgoer, or community partner in 2026 and beyond.
What happens after 2026?
A new nonprofit, Friends of Madeline Island Chamber Music, is forming to guide the program into its next chapter. This group includes advisors, alumni, and supporters from Madeline Island, Bayfield, the Twin Cities, and beyond, chaired by Linda Mack. “We want to have the organization more grounded in this area than it was in earlier years,” said Linda Mack, chair of the Friends, who is currently a MacPhail board member and chair of MacPhail’s Madeline Island Chamber Music Advisory Committee.
Serving on the Friends board are former chamber music board members Kathy Skor, Kathy Biebl, Connie Pries, and Mary Streitz; Susan Chandler, who was the Executive Director of Madeline Island Chamber Music before the merger with MacPhail and then became MacPhail’s Vice-President of Development; Robin Petty, an island summer resident and longtime supporter, island business people Robin Russell and Mike Rasmus, and Bayfield resident Bill Fairbanks, a Chicago attorney. With Artistic Director Jonathan Swartz continuing his leadership, the future is in good hands!