California Music Center

Since 1986, the irving m. klein international string competition has attracted some of the world's finest young string players to san francisco each june to compete for cash prizes and performance contracts with northern California orchestras, symphonies and chamber series totaling over 30,000. The klein competition has achieved international recognition as one of the most prestigious classical Music competitions, recognized for the high caliber of the contestants, its unique, nurturing environment, and its commitment to the commissioning of new works.

Education and outreach activities feature klein laureates and renowned teachers from the best conservatories in public master classes, assemblies and classroom visits to schools and community centers.

We produce several chamber concerts featuring klein laureates in both virtual and in-person settings in northern California. These intimate recitals showcase the talent that comes out of the klein competition while connecting with wider audiences on a regular basis throughout the year.