Uncommonly Classical

Staunton Is Virginia’s Crown Jewel for Classical Music

Nestled in the Shenandoah Valley, Staunton’s historic downtown delights music lovers of all ages with its vibrant arts and culture scene. Summer serenades in a spectacular mountain setting — that’s what you’ll find in Staunton. The range and diversity of Staunton’s musical offerings is absolutely wonderful and features an extraordinary collection of international musicians and performances near daily throughout the summer.

For the last three years, USA Today ranked Staunton among America’s “10 Best Small Towns for Arts & Culture.” Visit Staunton to experience for yourself the charm, virtuosity, and passion of this musically rich small city. We look forward to welcoming you to the concerts!

Both the Heifetz International Music Institute and the Staunton Music Festival are committed to the highest level of performance and programming. While Mozart is featured heavily on these summer music programs, don’t expect a simple repertoire of light classics. Staunton’s musical scene offers compelling, dazzling music by numerous composers from across the centuries.

HEIFETZ INT’L MUSIC INSTITUTE – June 19- July 27, 2024

The Heifetz International Music Institute, renowned for its dedication to the artistic growth and career development of the most promising young string players in the world, returns for its 28th Season in the summer of 2024. Through intensive instrument study and innovative training methods, the Institute guides musicians to explore their full creative potential, express their individuality, and redefine the concert experience. The diverse and ambitious Festival of Concerts features the Institute’s renowned faculty, special guests, and of course, its world class students — comprised this year of 169 exceptional young musicians ranging in age from 8 to 28, representing 15 countries internationally.  

STAUNTON MUSIC FESTIVAL – August 16 – 25, 2024 

Each August, Staunton Music Festival (SMF) welcomes over 80 acclaimed professionals from around the world to perform in 30 events. Multiple concerts daily make for an exhilarating immersion in chamber, vocal, and symphonic music. The days are given over to one-hour, free admission programs, while the evenings come alive with longer, ticketed concerts preceded by special dinners and short lectures. And for those who enjoy music after dark, look for the Nightcap concerts that take place at 10:00 pm in interesting spaces downtown.

TRAVELING TO STAUNTON

Direct flights from Charlotte, NC are available to the Shenandoah Valley Airport (SHD), located only 25 minutes from Staunton. We can also be conveniently accessed via Amtrak, with routes from Washington D.C., Chicago, Indianapolis, Cincinnati, and New York via the Cardinal.