Curtis on Tour is the Nina von Maltzahn global touring initiative of the Curtis Institute of Music. Embracing the school’s “learn by doing” philosophy, ensembles are infused with the energy and passion of extraordinary emerging artists performing alongside celebrated alumni and faculty. In addition to performances, musicians engage with local communities through educational and community engagement activities. For more than 15 years, Curtis on Tour has maintained a presence at top international concert halls, performing more than 450 concerts in over 120 cities, from New York to Berlin and Hong Kong to Santiago.

The Barbara and Larry Freiman Guest Artist Residency, a new endowment supporting Appalachian State University’s Hayes School of Music, brings a distinguished musician or ensemble to campus each academic year. Through this residency, students engage in person with world‑class artists who share their expertise in classrooms, rehearsals, and performances at the Broyhill Music Center. Each visit has a public concert as its focal point, offering the community an opportunity to experience these exceptional guest artists as well.

Barbara’s contributions to Appalachian State University are exemplary. Together, she, her late husband Larry, and their family have supported App State’s University Libraries, An Appalachian Summer Festival and Hayes School of Music, including the establishment of three endowments for student scholarships and guest-artist residencies. This support has ensured that the university’s arts and education programs will continue to make an enduring impact throughout our campus and extended community. The profound philanthropic commitments made by Barbara and her family exemplify our university's values, mission and vision, guided by her extraordinary generosity, unwavering support of education and the arts, and lifelong commitment to creating access and opportunity for others. 

In recognition of her service to Appalachian State University, Barbara Freiman was awarded an honorary doctorate at the Fall 2025 Commencement ceremony.