Colorado MahlerFest

Colorado MahlerFest is an annual festival dedicated to celebrating the life, music, and legacy of the Austrian composer Gustav Mahler. Founded in Boulder, Colorado, the festival has become a significant event for Mahler enthusiasts and classical music aficionados. The festival features a range of events, including symphony performances, recitals, educational symposiums, and social gatherings such as "Cocktails & Conversations." The festival's mission is to deepen the appreciation and understanding of Mahler's music, as well as to explore its cultural and historical context. The vision of the Colorado MahlerFest includes fostering diversity in its programming and outreach efforts, as well as nurturing a community of Mahler scholars, performers, and fans. Since its inception, the festival has seen a succession of artistic directors, with Kenneth Woods currently holding the position. Woods, an accomplished conductor, cellist, composer, and author, has been hailed by Gramophone as a symphonic conductor of stature. His extensive experience with Mahler's works and his leadership have contributed to the festival's growth and prestige. The festival has a rich history, with each year being marked by a specific "MahlerFest" number, indicating its sequence in the series. Past festivals have included performances of Mahler's symphonies and songs, as well as the awarding of the Mahler Society Gold Medal, which recognizes significant contributions to the understanding and appreciation of Mahler's music. The Colorado MahlerFest is also committed to education and community engagement. It has hosted numerous symposium speakers over the years, providing insights into Mahler's works and their performance. The festival encourages volunteer participation and offers opportunities for the public to get involved in various capacities. Support for the festival comes from a combination of donations, sponsorships, and volunteer efforts. The festival maintains a list of donors and sponsors who have contributed to its success. Additionally, the festival operates a shop where attendees can purchase merchandise, including art, books, scores, audio recordings, and videos related to Mahler's music. For those interested in staying informed about the festival's activities, the Colorado MahlerFest offers the option to join its mail and email lists. The festival also maintains a blog, providing updates, articles, and discussions about Mahler's music and the festival's events. The Colorado MahlerFest is a testament to the enduring impact of Gustav Mahler's music and a celebration of the composer's creative genius. It continues to attract audiences and performers from around the world, contributing to the cultural landscape of Boulder, Colorado, and the global classical music community.