music-making of the highest caliber
outstanding classical music performances by acclaimed artists from around the world
Each August Staunton proudly hosts "Virginia's world-class music festival" (Travel + Leisure), which brings more than 90 world-class musicians from around the world to the Blue Ridge Mountains to perform for ten consecutive days and nights of eclectic chamber, vocal, and symphonic music. All performances are held entirely in historic downtown Staunton.
Staunton Music Festival also presents an annual BaroqueFest in April, recitals throughout the year, and a few limited-capacity Special Events.
Staunton Music Festival artists are acclaimed professionals based all around the world. They are known for their historical knowledge and commitment to engaging with diverse, familiar and unfamiliar music.
Upcoming Concerts
Staunton Music Festival Box Office | (540) 800-6012 Mon-Fri 9:00-3:00 | boxoffice@stauntonmusicfestival.org
The spirit behind our tagline, Rethink Classical, touches on two basic convictions about what classical music can be in the 21st century. First, by taking a deep interest in historically-informed performance practice, we can rediscover the subtlety and color that emerges from period instrument concerts. Second, by merging past masterworks with world premieres, we remind ourselves that music from all eras is vital and expressive - that all music was once "modern." We believe programming old and new, together, deepens the appreciation of both.
Together, these commitments to historically-informed performance of older music and to the creative, mixed programming of contemporary works define Staunton Music Festival. For us, therefore, the call to "Rethink Classical" is more than just a tagline - it's a key element of our mission statement.
