The Hills Are Alive
From country to classical, Summit County’s summer music scene offers something for everyone.
STRAINS OF THE SEASON
Diverse programming is the hallmark of Breckenridge Music Festival’s Summer Series. From its humble roots in 1980 as a 10-day event, the BMF has evolved into a year-round, world-class music experience. The festival offers master classes to school-age children and education for lifelong learners, in addition to classical and popular music shows.
Concerts are held at the Riverwalk Center on the Blue River in the heart of Breckenridge. A 2008 remodel created an acoustically excellent, climate-controlled facility with ample space for dancing to rock and bluegrass acts.
The Blue River Series hosts national acts, including Dan Hicks and the Hot Licks, Marc Cohn and Asleep at the Wheel. But the Festival Orchestra, under the direction of maestro Gerhardt Zimmermann, anchors the summer season, producing 28 performances from July 16 to August 21. Those with a taste for classical will enjoy Beethoven, Schumann, Mozart and Schubert. More contemporary offerings include the music of Rodgers & Hammerstein, Glenn Miller and George Gershwin.
DANCIN’ IN THE STREETS
On August 14, the town of Frisco barricades the roadways and transforms Main Street into the site of a phenomenal funk and blues concert. The 20th Annual Music on Main presents Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Booker T. with opening act the Subdudes. The tunes fire up at 4 p.m.; come early for prime lawn chair space.
Born in Memphis, Booker T. has used his gospel roots over a long career that includes his 2009 album recorded with the Drive By Truckers and Neil Young. The Subdudes bring the New Orleans sound they’ve been perfecting since the 1980s.
Food and beer sales from local restaurants, Coors Light and Blue Moon will help raise funds for Advocates for Victims of Assault and the Family Intercultural Resource Center.
A LITTLE BIT COUNTRY
Free live music, fine art and kids’ activities pack the three-day Labor Day festival at Copper Mountain Resort. Copper Country’s music festival is the centerpiece September 3–5, with a long list of acts on tap.
Friday revs up with favorite local musician Randall McKinnon and an outdoor screening of Where the Wild Things Are. Start Saturday with the Copper Mountain Fire Department pancake breakfast to fuel the family through a day of music, including Dr. John’s blend of New Orleans roots, funk, rock, and rhythm and blues. While you listen, meander through a variety of exhibit booths, ride a mechanical bull or let the kids ride a real-live pony and check out the on-site petting zoo.
Five acts finish up Sunday, including Desert Rose Band, founded by Chris Hillman (formerly of the Byrds), and the Nashville group the Long Players.
