March 2, 2025
MusicFest Northwest is just around the corner, and from May 10th to May 17th, instrumentalists and dancers will fill Gonzaga University with the sounds of incredible music and the excitement of festival week! Whether you are a participant, a music lover, or someone looking to support the arts, here’s everything you can expect during this highly anticipated event.
A Vibrant Festival Atmosphere
Since Gonzaga University’s students will be on summer break, the campus will provide a peaceful and scenic setting for festival participants. Throughout the week, you’ll see performers of varying ages. Some will be nervously preparing for their classes while others celebrate their achievements with friends, family, and teachers. It will be a great time of connecting, creating, and celebrating.
Exciting Events and Divisions
This year’s festival features an exciting lineup of events:
- New Jazz Division Premiere – On Saturday, May 10th, MusicFest will introduce its brand-new Jazz Division, an exciting addition to its rich offerings.
- 2nd Annual Choral Festival – On Friday, May 16th, and Saturday, May 17th, this choral festival-within-a-festival will showcase high school choirs from the region.
- College Collage Concert – A brand-new event debuting on Thursday night of festival week.
- Festival Highlights Concert & Reception – The Festival Highlights concert has been moved to 7:00 PM and will be followed by a reception with punch and cookies, providing an opportunity to reflect on the week and connect with fellow musicians.
- Young Artist Concert Update – This year, the Young Artist Concert has been moved to October 2025, giving more time to celebrate these outstanding musicians later in the year.
What Participants Need to Know
- Class Check-In – Arrive 15 minutes early to your class, where a friendly MusicFest Northwest volunteer will check you in and collect your music for the adjudicator.
- World-Class Adjudicators – Each participant will receive expert feedback from highly respected adjudicators. You can also listen to the adjudicator’s feedback for other performers, offering valuable insights for all musicians.
- Open to the Public – All classes are free and open to anyone who loves live music. Invite friends and family to come and enjoy the performances—no tickets required!
- Parking – Free parking is available except in the St. Aloysius lot.
Get Involved
If you’re not performing but would love to be part of this incredible event, consider volunteering! MusicFest Northwest relies on the support of volunteers to keep everything running smoothly. Sign up here today.
MusicFest Northwest 2025 promises to connect with you, create with you and celebrate with you. Whether you’re performing, supporting a musician, or simply enjoying the performances, we can’t wait to see you there!
