The 26th annual summer-long Crested Butte Music Festival (CBMF) kicks off this month, and continues until September 10, 2022. There are 25 unique, high-quality performances, educational programming, and the Explore Series at various indoor and outdoor venues throughout the Gunnison Valley. CBMF’s Kids Go Free program provides free admission for kids aged 7-17 with the purchase of an adult ticket to all of CBMF’s main stage events.
In 2000, the Crested Butte Chamber Music Series and the Western Slope Music Festival merged to become the Crested Butte Music Festival. CBMF draws acts from distinctive genres such as chamber pieces, contemporary classical works, operas, gypsy jazz, classical, bluegrass, newgrass, jazz, indie rock, and live performances of world-class music.
Performances in 2022 include the Gypsy Jazz All-Stars at the Center for Arts and Yonder Mountain String Band at iBar Ranch.
See the full events calendar here.
In the words of CBMF Executive Director Erica Vernon, “We are so grateful for our donors who clearly recognize the importance and meaning of inspiring youth in the performing arts.” The community enrichment programming includes an endowed scholarship fund to ensure all children with a passion for music have the opportunity to attend a CBMF summer music camp.
This season’s educational camps for kids and adults include Bluegrass and Beyond (all skill levels ages 8-99), Colorado Gypsy Jazz Camp, and the Singer-Songwriter Camp (youth and adults). Students will learn from faculty and one another in small group settings.
The Sally Miner Lecture Series are free lectures taught by CBMF Co-Artistic Director Dr. Erik Christian Peterson. Students will learn from faculty and one another in small group settings.
In the Explore Series, extraordinary artistry + natural beauty share the main stage. Music Under the Stars: an evening of music under the stars at the Gunnison Observatory. Virtuoso pianist Anna Arzumanyan will perform under the stars, followed by a look through powerful telescopes. Hot Club Jazz Rafting event: Led by a private guide, float down the scenically unmatched Taylor River. Then, enjoy drinks at Garlic Mike’s with The Gypsy Jazz All-Stars performance. Jeeping With Americana Bluegrass: Join a Jeep tour to a breathtaking view and revel in a fun, world-class performance by The Another Brothers. Flamenco on the Water: Hop on a pontoon boat to a secret location for a magical world music concert with Miguel Espinoza Flamenco Fusion, “jazz, flamenco, and subtle world music.” Tickets include hors d’oeuvres and drinks.
The mission of the Crested Butte Festival: to present an annual performing arts festival by outstanding artists. Our diverse offerings inspire and educate audiences and develop performers of tomorrow. We envision an intimate, artistically diverse celebration that receives significant recognition from in and beyond our valley that is broadly recognized for its excellence. We value a broad offering of music performances and events which are inspirational and fun. Programs that provide music education and appreciation. Enhancing the artistic experience by connecting with our artists culturally and socially and enriching the quality of life and economic vitality in the Gunnison Valley. Community collaboration. Sound governance and fiscal responsibility. Inclusiveness.