During the late 1800’s concerts were frequently held at East Greenwich Academy, famous nationwide for its musical heritage. Next door stands St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, the birthplace of Music on the Hill. In 1974 Priscilla Rigg, Music Director of St. Luke’s, initiated the chamber music series, which soon expanded its outreach to the Rhode Island community at large. For 34 years Music on the Hill has presented traditional chamber music concerts by well known artists and ensembles to Ocean State audiences.
 
In 2008 Music on the Hill took a new direction. Continuing the rich history of "The Hill" being a home for great classical artists, it now welcomes back its own Rhode Island-born professional musicians, eager to share their talent with the community they love and inspire both classical music lovers and the next generation of musicians and audiences with exciting live performances in traditional and nontraditional concert settings throughout the state of Rhode Island.

Music on the Hill hosts an annual Festival Series of featuring prominent musicians who have come from, or currently live in Rhode Island during two weeks in June. Music on the Hill offers concerts at venues throughout the state. The Festival offers an enriched musical experience by incorporating “culinary concerts” that include a wine tasting, tantalizing appetizers and an assortment of desserts. Performers enhance the audience experience by sharing some history of the music and composers.