Background Statement
The Crested Butte Music Festival (CBMF) was founded in 1997 to enrich the quality of life in the rural Gunnison Valley through the performing arts. Early seasons encompassed one to three weeks of primarily classical music, with concerts featuring lieder, jazz, and poetry. Over time, CBMF grew to span the majority of the summer and, beginning in 2010, highlighted select genres in mini-festivals including bluegrass, gypsy jazz, and opera. Now in its 26th year, CBMF continues to feature distinctive genres such as symphonic and chamber pieces, contemporary classical works, gypsy jazz, bluegrass, and open programming. As well as live performances of world-class music, education remains a central component of CBMF's mission; opportunities in every genre abound during the summer and include camps, interactive musical experiences, masterclasses, lectures, and workshops for all ages. It's diverse programming; intimate, quality performances; and connections fostered between performers, their audiences, and supporters distinguish the Crested Butte Music Festival. Education and enrichment are just as central to CBMF's mission. We are continuing to expand our Community Enrichment by pursuing more initiatives to reach the underserved of our community of all ages and backgrounds.