Music in the Mountains Festival

The Music in the Mountains Festival, a cornerstone of Durango’s summer cultural landscape, is a four-week celebration of classical music that resonates deeply with music enthusiasts, families, and anyone looking to immerse themselves in world-class performances. This festival, now in its 39th year, has earned a special place in the hearts of locals and repeat attendees, who often refer to it simply as “Music in the Mountains” or the “Durango Music Festival.”

The target audience is diverse, encompassing families seeking a cultural outing, music lovers eager to experience a wide range of classical genres, and community members who appreciate the festival’s contribution to the local arts scene. This year, the festival is led by the esteemed Artistic Director, violinist Vadim Gluzman, and the 2025 Jill Ward Conductor-in-Residence, Daniel Raiskin. The festival orchestra, comprising over 60 visiting musicians from around the world, includes Grammy award-winning conductors, Juilliard School graduates, and renowned soloists. Notable guests and performers add to the festival’s allure, making it a must-attend event for anyone passionate about classical music.

The 2025 Music in the Mountains Festival is scheduled to take place from July 10 to August 3. The daily schedule is packed with over 40 events, including classical orchestra concerts, pops orchestra concerts, chamber concerts, and family-friendly events. Special happenings include a signature benefit event and gala, world music concerts, and free community concerts on a custom-built mobile stage set up in various parks around the region.

The festival venues are scattered throughout the picturesque Durango region, with main performances held at the Community Concert Hall at Fort Lewis College. Additional events take place at scenic locations such as Glacier, Kennebec Cafe, LePlatt’s Pond, River Bend Ranch, and the Sky Ute Event Center. Durango, nestled in the heart of Southwest Colorado, is easily accessible via the Durango-La Plata County Airport or by driving along US Highway 160. The natural beauty of the region, with its rolling hills, verdant forests, and the Animas River, provides a stunning backdrop for the festival.

Attending the Music in the Mountains Festival offers a unique and enriching experience that goes beyond mere entertainment. The festival is a symphony of sound, setting, and community spirit. Imagine attending a classical orchestra concert under the stars at the Community Concert Hall, or enjoying a family-friendly concert and picnic at LePlatt’s Pond. The free community concerts on the mobile stage bring music to the heart of local parks, fostering a sense of community and joy. The festival also includes world music concerts, adding a global flavor to the performances.

The setting itself is a major draw, with Durango’s natural beauty and the festival’s use of unique venues creating an unforgettable atmosphere. Whether you are sitting in the elegant Community Concert Hall or enjoying music at an outdoor venue like River Bend Ranch, the combination of world-class music and breathtaking scenery is nothing short of magical.

In essence, the Music in the Mountains Festival is an annual celebration that weaves together music, nature, and community in a way that is both inspiring and unforgettable. It is a time when the mountains truly come alive with the sound of classical music, inviting all to experience the beauty and elegance that only such a festival can provide.