Moab’s dramatic red‑rock landscape hosts the annual Moab Music Festival from Aug. 29–Sept. 9. The festival’s dozen-plus performances span classical, jazz and traditional styles and showcase artists such as Christopher Layer (flute and bagpipes), pianist Timothy Long, Arnaud Sussmann (viola and violin), composer and pianist Juantio Becenti, baritone Adrian Rosas, guitarist Matt Munisteri, and multi‑instrumentalist Dennis Lichtman (fiddle, clarinet and mandolin). Concerts take place in a variety of outdoor settings, including Grotto Concerts held in a wilderness grotto on the Colorado River that can be reached by boat.
Now in its 21st year, the festival was founded by New York–based violist Leslie Tomkins and pianist/conductor Michael Barrett. From its beginnings the festival has emphasized community engagement: musicians regularly visit Grand County schools to perform assemblies, and an artist‑in‑residence program provides additional educational activities throughout the year. These outreach efforts aim to make high‑quality music accessible to local students and to encourage musical learning in the region.
The program typically blends intimate chamber performances with larger ensemble concerts, and the outdoor venues take advantage of Moab’s striking scenery to create memorable listening experiences. Attendees often cite the mix of world‑class musicianship and the unique natural settings as defining features of the festival.
Whether you’re a local resident or visiting for the area’s parks and recreation, the Moab Music Festival offers a distinctive cultural complement to the region’s outdoor attractions. From sunset performances in desert amphitheaters to early‑evening river grotto concerts, the festival schedule is designed to highlight both the music and the landscape that inspires it.
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