Tickets on sale to the public May 9. Donor presales begin April 30.
As the seasons change, Strings Music Festival is thrilled to announce our exceptional lineup for the 2025 Summer Festival, featuring a remarkable array of genre-spanning artists! Celebrating our 38th season, we’re featuring performances from outstanding classical musicians alongside renowned contemporary favorites. Audiences can look forward to a dynamic summer filled with rock, jazz, folk, Americana, and much more. Don’t miss your chance to experience unforgettable performances from Grammy-nominated artists, legendary Hall of Fame inductees, and celebrated talents. Join us as we kick off this exciting season on June 27, 2025!
Coming soon to the Strings Music Pavilion:
- Mary Chapin Carpenter / Brandy Clark | Friday, June 27, 7pm | Tickets start at $144
- Opening Night: Contrasts in Classical | Saturday, June 28, 7pm | Tickets start at $35 | $10 Juniors
- BoDeans | Sunday, June 29, 7pm | Tickets start at $64
- An American Story Featuring Chee-Yun | Wednesday, July 2, 7pm | Tickets start at $35 | $10 Juniors
- An American Tapestry in Brass | Saturday, July 5, 7pm | Tickets start at $41 | $10 Juniors
- Brent Rowan and Friends | Sunday, July 6, 7pm
- Bruce Cockburn | Thursday, July 10, 7pm | Tickets start at $64
- Houndmouth | Friday, July 11, 7pm | Tickets start at $58 advance, $64 day of show, Standing Room Only
- The Guild of Strings Music Festival’s Kitchen and Garden Tour | Saturday, July 12, 9am-3pm | Tickets start at $50
- Palaver Strings with Nicholas Phan: ‘A Change is Gonna Come’ | Saturday, July 12, 7pm | Tickets start at $35 | $10 Juniors
- Tab Benoit | Sunday, July 13, 7pm | Tickets start at $58
- Anderson & Roe | Wednesday, July 16, 7pm | Tickets start at $41 | $10 Juniors
- John Oates: An Evening of Songs and Stories | Friday, July 18, 7pm | Tickets start at $69
- Manhattan Chamber Players | Saturday, July 19, 7pm | Music for the Community: Pay What You Can
- Lucinda Williams | Sunday, July 20, 7pm | Tickets start at $92
- Weiss Kaplan Carr Trio | Wednesday, July 23, 7pm | Tickets start at $41 | $10 Juniors
- Firefall | Thursday, July 24, 7pm | Tickets start at $58
- Harmonic Dialogues | Saturday, July 26, 7pm | Tickets start at $46 | $10 Juniors
- Rhiannon Giddens & The Old-Time Revue | Sunday, July 27, 7pm | Tickets start at $76
- Trios of Passion | Wednesday, July 30, 7pm | Tickets start at $35 | $10 Juniors
- Pure Prairie League | Thursday, July 31, 7pm | Tickets start at $69
- Jarabe Mexicano | Friday, August 1, 7pm | Tickets start at $35
- Czech Mates | Saturday, August 2, 7pm | Tickets start at $41 | $10 Juniors
- Mountain Grass Unit | Sunday, August 3, 7pm | Tickets start at $35
- Strings Unbound | Wednesday, August 6, 7pm | Tickets start at $46 | $10 Juniors
- TopHouse | Thursday, August 7, 7pm | Tickets start at $35
- Orchestra Finale: Rhapsody in Blue | Saturday, August 9, 7pm | Tickets start at $69 | $10 Juniors
- Morgan James Symphonic Soul | Sunday, August 10, 7pm | Tickets start at $87
- Cliburn Gold Medalist | Wednesday, August 13, 7pm | Tickets start at $41 | $10 Juniors
- Atlanta Rhythm Section | Thursday, August 14, 7pm | Tickets start at $58
- Jon Muq | Saturday, August 16, 7pm | Tickets start at $35
- Hot Tuna | Friday, September 19, 7pm | Tickets start at $69
- Dawes (duo) | Saturday, October 4, 7pm | Tickets start at $69
- BUGS | Friday, November 7, 5:30pm
In addition to the Summer Festival lineup, Strings is also pleased to announce a very full summer of free programming with Music on the Green performances at the Yampa Valley Botanic Park, Twilight Yoga in Strings Festival Park, and an Open Rehearsal for families and friends. For dates and details, visit stringsmusicfestival.com.
Tickets to all 30+ shows in the Strings Music Pavilion go on sale to the general public on Friday, May 9, 2025 at 10am. Buy online at stringsmusicfestival.com or via phone by calling the Strings Box Office at (970) 879-5056 ext. 105. Donors of $500 or more receive advanced pre-sale access. Eligible donors will receive further details and instructions via email. To make a donation and access the pre-sale, visit stringsmusicfestival.com/donate. Strings Music Festival is a 501(c)(3) Colorado non-profit organization. More than 60% of our programs are free to youth, families, seniors, and adults.
“We are thrilled to present an exceptional lineup for our 38th season, featuring Grammy-winning artists like Mary Chapin Carpenter and Brandy Clark, legendary performers such as Lucinda Williams and John Oates, and a diverse array of genres including rock, jazz, folk, and Americana,” said Strings Music Festival executive director Elissa Greene. “With performances at the Strings Music Pavilion, the Yampa River Botanic Park, and exciting local community venues including the Hayden Granary, this summer promises to be a vibrant celebration of music that truly makes summer in Steamboat so special.”
About the 2025 Summer Festival Lineup
Mary Chapin Carpenter / Brandy Clark | Friday, June 27, 7pm With hits like “Passionate Kisses” and “He Thinks He’ll Keep Her,” Mary Chapin Carpenter has won five Grammy Awards (with 18 nominations), two CMA Awards, two ACM Awards and is one of only fifteen female members of the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame. She’s joined by Brandy Clark, a Grammy, CMA, and Americana Award-winner; and one of her generation’s most esteemed songwriters and musicians.
Opening Night: Contrasts in Classical | Saturday, June 28, 7pm A thrilling season opener featuring some of classical music’s most beloved works—performed by a dynamic nine-player ensemble drawn from the ranks of The Cleveland Orchestra. Horn virtuoso Nathaniel Silberschlag takes center stage in Mozart’s Horn Concerto No. 3, offering a rare chance to hear one of today’s finest brass musicians in a solo spotlight. From the effervescent overture to The Barber of Seville to Haydn’s sunrise-inspired Le MatinSymphony and Mozart’s high-spirited Haffner Symphony, this evening is a celebration of the grandeur of classical music.
BoDeans | Sunday, June 29, 7pm With countless tunes you know from the first note, rip-roaring gigs you can count on, and a whole lot of energy you’ll take home with you, BoDeans continue to contribute to the American songbook as a tried-and-true institution. Founded and led by original frontman, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and producer Kurt Neumann, the band’s catalog consists of generational anthems such as “Good Things,” “You Don’t Get Much,” “Idaho,” and “Closer To Free,” just to name a few.
An American Story Featuring Chee-Yun | Wednesday, July 2, 7pm Experience the essence of American music with the radiant violinist Chee-Yun in a program that spans the nation’s most iconic composers. From the sparkling wit of Bernstein’s overture to Candide to the haunting beauty of Corigliano’s The Red Violin, this concert pays tribute to American artistry in all its forms. Gershwin’s jazz-inflected An American in Paris and Second Prelude add a touch of cinematic flair, while John Williams’ Lincoln evokes the deep soul of the American spirit.
An American Tapestry in Brass | Saturday, July 5, 7pm Brass takes center stage in this exhilarating celebration featuring musicians from American BRASS. Aaron Copland’s Hoe-Down bursts forth with frontier energy, while William Schumann’s American Hymn offers a stirring reflection on the country’s musical heritage. The program continues with Michael Kamen’s cinematic Brass Quintet, Charles Ives’ bold and witty Variations on America, and Peter Meechan’s Song for Hope, a radiant tribute to resilience. It’s a powerful evening of bold fanfares, lyrical beauty, and dynamic virtuosity.
Brent Rowan and Friends | Sunday, July 6, 7pm Brent Rowan made his mark as a Nashville studio guitarist and record producer, nominated nine times for Country Music Association awards. In addition to over 15,000 recording sessions, he has played on dozens of film soundtracks and recorded with Chris LeDoux, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Olivia Newton-John, Sting, and Neil Diamond, along with many others.
Bruce Cockburn | Thursday, July 10, 7pm Bruce Cockburn has written more than 400 songs on 35 albums over a career spanning more than 50 years, of which 23 have received gold or platinum certification. His guitar playing—both acoustic and electric—has placed him among the world’s top instrumentalists. He has sold more than nine million albums worldwide and has been honored with 13 JUNO Awards.
Houndmouth | Friday, July 11, 7pm | Standing Room Only – On Sale Now! Houndmouth is an American alternative band from New Albany, Indiana led by Matt Myers (guitar, vocals). Known for their unique blend of alternative rock and blues influences, they have gained a reputation for their energetic live performances and soulful sound.
The Guild of Strings Music Festival’s Kitchen and Garden Tour | Saturday, July 12, 9am-3pm Explore a variety of beautiful kitchens and amazing gardens at five gorgeous homes spanning the Steamboat area. Exciting events and activities round out the tour: breakfast at the Strings Music Pavilion for tour kickoff, professional gardening and home design talks, live entertainment from local musicians, demonstrations by local artists, and a beautiful bike route.Tour proceeds support Strings Music Festival’s diverse offerings in the Yampa Valley, including our free programs. Presenting Sponsor: Aqua Vita Spas
Palaver Strings with Nicholas Phan: ‘A Change is Gonna Come’ | Saturday, July 12, 7pm Grammy-nominated Palaver Strings has made its mark as one of New England’s most innovative chamber ensembles. Guided by a passion for engaging new audiences, addressing social justice issues, and amplifying underrepresented voices, Palaver is celebrated for their collaborative artistic programming and dynamic performances, as well their deep commitment to accessible education through the Palaver Music Center. Palaver Strings and acclaimed tenor Nicholas Phan perform a soulful tribute to the legendary Sam Cooke, showcasing classics from the iconic singer-songwriter’s timeless catalog.
Tab Benoit | Sunday, July 13, 7pm I Hear Thunder marks the long-awaited return of four-time Grammy Award-nominated artist Tab Benoit. Renowned for his distinctive guitar tone and Otis Redding-esque voice, Benoit has been a captivating figure in the roots music world for over 30 years.
Anderson & Roe | Wednesday, July 16, 7pm Greg Anderson and Elizabeth Joy Roe are revolutionizing the piano duo experience for the 21st century. Hailed as “the most dynamic duo of this generation” (San Francisco Classical Voice) and “rock stars of the classical music world” (Miami Herald), the Anderson & Roe Piano Duo has appeared on PBS and MTV, recorded Billboard chart-topping albums, toured worldwide as recitalists and orchestral soloists, and released Emmy Award-nominated, self-produced music videos viewed by millions.
John Oates: An Evening of Songs and Stories | Friday, July 18, 7pm John Oates is the co-founder of the iconic music creators Hall & Oates, as well as an accomplished solo artist. He is a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the American Songwriters Hall of Fame, and a recipient of the prestigious BMI Icon Award, as well as numerous American Music Awards, MTV Awards, and multiple Grammy nominations.
Manhattan Chamber Players | Saturday, July 19, 7pm | Music for the Community: Pay What You Can The Manhattan Chamber Players are a chamber music collective of New York-based musicians who share the common aim of performing the greatest works in the chamber repertoire at the highest level. Formed in 2015 by Artistic Director and violist Luke Fleming, MCP is comprised of an impressive roster of musicians who all come from the tradition of great music making at the Marlboro Music Festival, Steans Institute at Ravinia, Music@Menlo, Yellow Barn Chamber Music Festival, and Perlman Music Program, and are former students of the Curtis Institute, The Juilliard School, Colburn School, and the New England Conservatory.
Lucinda Williams | Sunday, July 20, 7pm Music has gotten three-time Grammy Award-winner Lucinda Williams through her darkest days. It’s been that way since growing up amid family chaos in the Deep South, as she recounts in her candid new memoir, Don’t Tell Anybody the Secrets I Told You. As she promises on the final track of Stories from a Rock n Roll Heart—one of the best albums of her career—Lucinda Williams is “never gonna fade away.”
Weiss Kaplan Carr Trio | Wednesday, July 23, 7pm The Weiss-Kaplan-Carr Trio, featuring pianist Yael Weiss, violinist Mark Kaplan, and cellist Colin Carr, unites three internationally acclaimed artists renowned for their exceptional musicianship and commitment to chamber music. With performances spanning the globe, the trio brings together Weiss’s poetic sensitivity, Kaplan’s expressive artistry on his historic Stradivari violin, and Carr’s vibrant cello playing praised worldwide. Individually celebrated through prestigious awards, international competitions, and acclaimed recordings—the ensemble is distinguished by their unified musical vision.
Firefall | Thursday, July 24, 7pm Firefall is an American country rock band that formed in Boulder, Colorado in 1974. Their radio hits include “You Are The Woman,” “Just Remember I Love You,” “Strange Way,” “Cinderella,” “Headed for a Fall,” and “Staying with It.” 50 years after their debut, founder Jock Bartley and the gang are still going strong, touring the world, and bringing their music to the fans.
Harmonic Dialogues | Saturday, July 26, 7pm Join celebrated musicians Vijay Gupta (violin), Leah Ferguson (viola), Joel Noyes (cello), Benjamin Hochman (piano), Ricardo Morales (clarinet), and Richard Deane (horn) for an evening of captivating chamber music featuring Dohnányi’s spirited Sextet in C Major, Op. 37 and Brahms’ passionate Piano Quartet in G minor, Op. 25. Experience intimate musical conversations filled with depth, warmth, and exhilarating energy.
Rhiannon Giddens & The Old-Time Revue | Sunday, July 27, 7pm A two-time Grammy Award-winning singer and multi-instrumentalist, MacArthur “Genius” grant recipient, Pulitzer Prize winner, and composer of opera, ballet, and film, Giddens has centered her work around the mission of lifting up people whose contributions to American musical history have previously been overlooked or erased.
Trios of Passion | Wednesday, July 30, 7pm Join acclaimed artists Vijay Gupta (violin), Joel Noyes (cello), and Benjamin Hochman (piano) for an evening filled with deeply expressive chamber music. Experience the emotional intensity of Rachmaninoff’s haunting Trio No. 1 in G minor, followed by Tchaikovsky’s epic and heartfelt Piano Trio in A minor, Op. 50. Let yourself be swept away by this powerful musical journey of love, loss, and lyrical beauty.
Pure Prairie League | Thursday, July 31, 7pm From their beginnings in mid-sixties Ohio as a group of friends playing cover tunes to the present-day lineup featuring the propulsive rhythm team of drummer Scott Thompson and bassist Jared Camic, keyboard master Randy Harper, guitar ace/vocalist Jeff Zona, and pedal steel/saxophonist John Heinrich, Pure Prairie League continues to build upon the rich, 50-plus-year history of one of country rock’s pioneering forces.
Jarabe Mexicano | Friday, August 1, 7pm Jarabe Mexicano captures the nostalgic spirit of their border roots with their brand of “Bordeño-Soul,” which honors the musical tastes and cultural influences of its members. Jarabe, which translates to ‘concoction,’ highlights the eclectic mix of genres they perform ranging from Mexican folk, rock & roll, norteño/Tex-Mex to Latin rock, trio romántico, and popular cumbia.
Czech Mates | Saturday, August 2, 7pm Explore the rich musical heritage of the Czech Republic with compositions by Janáček, Smetana, and Dvořák featuring acclaimed musicians Vijay Gupta (violin), Claude Sim (viola), Joel Noyes (cello), and Benjamin Hochman (piano). Featuring Janáček’s soulful Dumka, Smetana’s passionate Piano Trio in G minor, and Dvořák’s spirited Piano Quartet No. 1, experience the warmth, lyricism, and joyful energy of these Czech masterpieces.
Mountain Grass Unit | Sunday, August 3, 7pm Mountain Grass Unit, a young quartet from Birmingham, Alabama, redefines bluegrass with a fresh narrative. Their journey began with a shared musical passion, and they have formed a sound that merges bluegrass with country, jazz, funk, rock, and metal influences.
Strings Unbound | Wednesday, August 6, 7pm Experience an inspiring evening of chamber music featuring renowned violinists Elizabeth Stewart, Joosep Reimaa, Sheryl Staples, and Katherine Bormann, violists Marija Räisänen and Erina Laraby Goldwasser, and cellists Stergios Theodoridis and Austin Fisher. Delight in Boccherini’s luminous String Quintet in E Major, followed by an exciting piece performed by the Erinys String Quartet, and Mendelssohn’s dazzling Octet in E-flat Major—a youthful masterpiece full of virtuosity and exuberance.
TopHouse | Thursday, August 7, 7pm “Fast-paced, high-energy foot stompers. Ballads that’ll make you cry. It’s kind of like a rock band married old-fashioned bluegrass and had a little baby. And named it TopHouse.” TopHouse was created in 2015 by two Montana music majors, guitarist/songwriter Jesse Davis and violinist William Cook before adding Joseph Larson (lead singer and guitar/banjo player,) and Andy LaFave (piano) in 2017 and 2022 respectively. After being vaulted to local fame in their birthplace of Missoula, with the Missoulian naming TopHouse one of the top 5 best new bands (two years in a row we might add), the band moved to Nashville, TN.
Orchestra Finale: Rhapsody in Blue | Saturday, August 9, 7pm Celebrate the season with conductor Andrew Grams, featuring a vibrant showcase of American music. Opening with Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Jessie Montgomery’s dazzling Starburst, followed by Hovhaness’s reflective Alleluia and Fugue. Pianist Joanne Pearce Martin brings Gershwin’s iconic Rhapsody in Blue to life, capturing its jazz-infused brilliance. After intermission, enjoy Copland’s poignant Quiet City, spotlighting trumpet and English horn, and conclude with the beloved chamber version of Appalachian Spring, a timeless tribute to American optimism and spirit.
Morgan James Symphonic Soul | Sunday, August 10, 7pm Catch classically trained vocalist, Broadway veteran, and recording artist Morgan James in a very special performance with the Strings Festival Orchestra. Morgan is a frequent symphony pops soloist, whose appearances include San Francisco, Ravinia Festival, Philadelphia, and more. As a recording artist, Morgan just released her fifth studio album of original soul music entitled Nobody’s Fool, as well as a live album from Antone’s in Austin, Texas.
Cliburn Gold Medalist | Wednesday, August 13, 7pm Strings Music Festival is honored to welcome the Gold Medalist of the Seventeenth Van Cliburn International Piano Competition, held this summer. This performance offers audiences a rare opportunity to experience the artistry of one of the world’s most promising pianists, fresh from their triumph at this prestigious competition.
Atlanta Rhythm Section | Thursday, August 14, 7pm With over 50 years of hits and a place in the Georgia Music Hall of Fame, Atlanta Rhythm Section continues to bring their signature blend of smooth Southern rock to the stage. From “So Into You” to “Spooky,” their live shows are packed with iconic tracks, top-tier musicianship, and the timeless energy that made them legends of the genre.
Jon Muq | Saturday, August 16, 7pm For Jon Muq, a singer-songwriter born in Uganda and now living in Austin, Texas, music is part of a larger conversation he’s having with the world and everybody in it. With his May 31st debut album with producer Dan Auerbach and tours with Billy Joel, Norah Jones, Mavis Staples, Amythyst Kiah, Corinne Bailey Rae, and others, Muq is expanding the scope of his music to speak to more and more people.
Additional Fall Concerts
Hot Tuna | Friday, September 19, 7pm | On Sale Now! Hot Tuna, an iconic American blues rock band, has been delivering a profound musical experience to fans around the world for over six decades. Formed by Jefferson Airplane’s Jorma Kaukonen and Jack Casady, the band has captivated audiences with their dynamic blend of blues, rock, and improvisational mastery. Their enduring passion and innovation have solidified their status as music legends, continuing to inspire with their timeless sound.
Dawes (duo) | Saturday, October 4, 7pm | Tickets start at $69
BUGS | Friday, November 7, 5:30pm BUGS, an interactive multimedia performance by acclaimed guitarist and composer Kaki King, is a celebration of curiosity and discovery, encouraging audiences to connect with the natural world through a fusion of music, technology, and interactive storytelling. Whether you’re a child or simply young at heart, this show promises a unique and enchanting experience.
Strings Music Festival presents music of the highest quality in an intimate mountain setting. Our summer festival includes a genre-spanning lineup featuring classical musicians from the nation’s top orchestras and chart-topping popular contemporary artists all of whom perform in an intimate, 569-seat Pavilion nestled at the base of Steamboat’s mountains. Outside of our venue, we serve the community with a variety of free programming and an in-school education program called Strings School Days. This offering cultivates music appreciation and ability in Northwest Colorado’s pre-K-12 students. Learn more at stringsmusicfestival.com.