Celebrating 25 years with Dorris Dai Janssen

In celebration of her 25th anniversary, Dorris authored the following passage, which is also included in the 2026 summer program book.

Dorris Dai Janssen
Violin

Back in college studying violin performance, I hoped that opportunities in music would include traveling to beautiful places. After joining GTMF, July is my favorite month of the year because I spend it in Wyoming with this community.

In 2001, I flew to Jackson Hole for the first time and was overwhelmed by awe. I was instantly in love with the grandeur of the mountains and the abundance of outdoor fun. As a younger person, I went horseback riding in Alpine and rock climbing in Grand Teton National Park with guides. Most of my outdoor memories include hiking and kayaking in my Chacos. My husband and two sons plan the summer around this trip, and we celebrate one of my son’s birthdays here every year. This is where my boys learned to skip rocks, value their swim lessons and enjoy music. We love looking for wildlife and reconnecting with summer friends who are more like family. My sons are growing into adults now, and I will treasure these memories forever. Being outside, getting huckleberry milkshakes at the Victor Emporium, experiencing a concert and getting loud while playing card games all night is a perfect day!

At GTMF, outdoor beauty and music unite. This Festival has energetic and focused musicians that I find deeply satisfying to work with. People are excited to be here, and we are motivated by our time limit! Led by the fantastic Maestro Sir Donald Runnicles, there is a high spirit of working together and creating great concerts. Some of the most challenging and inspiring programs in my memory include Mahler 9 and recording all the Beethoven Piano Concertos. Truly, every concert has moments that I find artistically gratifying. Add the warm audience reception (thank you Jackson Hole!) and that is my recipe for emotional highs. The feeling is close to paragliding, but easier on the ankles! Work goals and life dreams come true here, and I feel so grateful to be a part of GTMF.