25 Years at GTMF: Ikuko Takahashi

GTMF has been my summer home since before I turned 20. When I first arrived, I didn’t know how to play in an orchestra — or even how to cook. But the more experienced musicians welcomed and supported me, helping me grow and thrive through some of the most unforgettable moments of my life.
I hold a special place in my heart for Richard Brown, GTMF’s longtime orchestra manager, and his wife, Susan. They treated me like family and filled each day with warmth and joy. Richard’s recent passing is a deep loss — he is missed, and the festival won’t be the same without him.
Over the past 24 years, GTMF has become much more than a festival — it’s a beloved community. Each summer, I look forward to reconnecting with people like Ted and Jo Ann Wong, who treat musicians with incredible generosity. Joannie Epstein patiently teaches me to paint the Tetons, and Dr. Stuart Sugarman is always there when musicians need care. Margot Walk’s extraordinary support helps make the concert hall and musician housing possible — her vision and generosity are truly inspiring.
Conductor Ling Tung was one of my most inspiring early mentors. His passion for music, cooking and community made a lasting impact. After rehearsals, we’d gather to cook, eat and share stories — moments that were just as meaningful as the music.
A musical highlight was performing with the Huckleberry String Quartet in community outreach concerts. Sharing music with audiences who might not otherwise hear it — seeing children dance and families smile — was deeply fulfilling. Helping launch GTMF On the Road remains one of my proudest contributions. Although the quartet no longer leads the program, I sincerely hope it continues to thrive and reach even more communities.
There’s nothing like waking early, watching the sun rise over the mountains, and heading to rehearsal to play centuries-old music. Nature and music blend in a way that feels healing and rare. GTMF has changed over the years, and I do miss the old days. But there’s still a special kind of magic here — something in the way music and nature come together that I can’t find anywhere else.