Music Worcester, Inc. was formed in 1996 out of a landmark merger which united the historic Worcester County Music Association, presenter of the distinguished Worcester Music Festival, and the International Artists Series, presenter of the Mass Jazz Festival and the International Artists Series. The Worcester Music Festival is the oldest Music Festival in the United States and carries a rich history. Since 1858 the Worcester County Music Association has been pre-eminent in presenting great performances by world-renowned artists, and has made a tradition of excellence its hallmark.