There are so many wonderful events kicking off this year’s “Summer of Color” celebration that I won’t be able to fit everything into this blog, but here’s a quick rundown of the happenings in Santa Fe, New Mexico starting this month and yes, they include music – so much music.
The Santa Fe Opera begins their 59th season this evening with an opening night of tailgating extraordinaire and The Daughter of the Regiment that Director, Ned Canty describes in this video “as a full and complete work of art as one has never seen before. “ A Verdi opera may be more your style and Saturday evening has Rigoletto on the stage. Georgia Jarman (soprano who performs Gilda) describes in this video how this opera “immediately grabs you and takes you in until the very end.” What a stunning way to celebrate this year’s opening weekend! But, of course, the opera runs through August and I’ve linked their calendar here so you can plan your visit around your favorites.
Need more music in your life? Here are the links to what Santa Fe has to offer and I think are worth a visit alone. Santa Fe Bandstand 2015 offers FREE live performances in the heart of Santa Fe. Yes, that’s two blocks from the Inn of the Governors to experience an amazing mix of top national artists and the best bands from our very own local scene. Opening night is July 7 at 6pm with Son Como Son. Listen here to see what you might be missing if you aren’t here for the kickoff. Don’t worry though - if you are visiting another time through August 28, you might be able to catch a tune, tap a foot or dance with a local on the plaza. Another wonderful free event is the annual Music on the Hill. July 8, 15 and 22 families, friends and couples join each other on the lawn to listen to an open air concert that is hard to be beat in Santa Fe. Bring a picnic and a blanket and cozy up to your neighbor for a truly local experience. Juan Siddi Flamenco performs at the Lensic on July 12, 21, 26 and August 1 & 29 and September 5. Enjoy the passion that this flamenco company shares through their dance and music. The Santa Fe Desert Chorale begins their 33rd season on July 9 and runs through August 9 and you might also enjoy the Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival which begins its 43rd season on July 19 and runs through August 24. Do you love jazz? Wonderful! The New Mexico Jazz Festival brings talent to Santa Fe in July and August. Plan your time around their schedule, if you’d like.
When you’ve filled your soul with music, you can take in the “Summer of Color” events happening all over Santa Fe. Beautiful, vibrant colors at various museums, galleries and special annual events such as the International Folk Art Market are taking place. The market brings 750 artists from 88 countries to town July 10 – 12 for three days of shopping, eating, music and workshops. Tickets usually sell out in advance so if you have the time to come and attend, buy them ahead of your visit online. Or, experience the colors of the Spanish Market taking place just two blocks from the Inn, on the plaza, July 25 & 26. There are many historically significant events preceding the weekend and here’s an easy link to find your favorite. Now, don’t think that the festivals end in July, because August is home to the annual SWAIA Indian Market and the Indigenous Fine Art Market, too. Both occur in the 3rd week of August and throughout the weekend. Turquoise might be my favorite color for these very special annual and culturally full events.
As always, travel safely and we’ll see you soon. Deb Swanson
