Methow Valley Chamber Music Festival July 27-August 5

WINTHROP - Methow Valley Chamber Music Festival Enters 22nd Season 2017 Festival welcomes artists from around the world to a beautiful natural setting
Classical musicians from China, London, New York and Seattle will headline the 22nd annual Methow Valley Chamber Music Festival, which runs July 27 to August 5 at Signal Hill Ranch near Winthrop.
Artistic Director Kevin Krentz is committed to presenting chamber music that is inspiring and uplifting.  “We present live, energetic, virtuosic, extravagant music,” he said.  The year’s program features familiar names like Beethoven and Brahms, works by less familiar composers like Schnittke, Smetana and Turina, as well as pieces that were composed or arranged by one of the performers.  “There’s something for everyone, even those who have never heard chamber music before,” promises Krentz.
The Centerstage concerts have become a much-anticipated event each summer in the Methow.  Along with returning Festival favorites and new world-class award-winning artists, the Festival also welcomes Washington state Poet Laureate Tod Marshall to the stage.
The concerts are held at Signal Hill Ranch, perched high on Signal Hill between Winthrop and Twisp, featuring breath-taking views of the surrounding valley.  The grounds open at 6:00 PM for dining and socializing, with local vendors providing food and drink for purchase.  A pre-concert presentation begins at 6:30 p.m., with the main concert following at 7:30 p.m.  After the concert, patrons are invited to stay for an Afterglow party to meet the artists and gaze at the stars.  The July 27 and 29 Afterglows will feature local astronomer Dave Ward, who will provide telescopes for viewing the stars.
Concertgoers can also visit The Piano Garden, a sculptural installation of a dozen pianos planted in the ground, and the visual Wall of Art, featuring works from local artists.
In addition to the main concerts, the Festival hosts many free events around the Methow Valley.  A full schedule, program and ticket information can be found at www.methowmusicfestival.org.
Tickets for the Methow Valley Chamber Music Festival are $30.