Maestro Keith Clark is a master of music and conducting, along with being the master of a vision to fill the Liberty Theater, the Performing Arts Center, and many other venues in Astoria, with world class music and internationally known artists to perform it.

The ensemble of music students, whom he auditions for the Apprentice Program, are truly the “stars of tomorrow,” and bring their own magic of youth and talent to learn from the maestro and his staff.

In my estimation, Keith Clark has become the Sol Hurok of the North Coast, with his expertise in knowing artists, booking them, then coaching, directing and producing the Astoria Music Festival for an 13 amazing years. Festival goers find themselves attending concerts equal to those they would find in any major concert hall in the country and abroad.

Personally, it has been my honor and privilege to have my dance students work with Maestro Clark for 10 of the 13 years, giving them the opportunities of a lifetime to perform with such a distinguished company.

Maestro Clark deserves bravos, kudos, many curtain calls and many return engagements.

He has, through his love, determination, passion and courage, given all of us the everlasting gift of music, enriching our lives and the lives of our families and neighbors. This must continue under his devoted direction.

Jeanne Maddox Peterson

Astoria