Today I chatted with publicity director, Wendy Tyner, of The Wintergrass Festival. If you love music, and are around this weekend, you don’t want to miss this event! In its 26th year, the festival goes from February 21st – 24th, at the Hyatt Regency in Bellevue,.
The Wintergrass festival, is more than a line up of amazing, Grammy winning artists. More than 300 volunteers come together to prepare for the 12,000 expected attendees, vendors, and a 33 band line up! Offering a truly unique diversity of music such as Blue Grass, Country, Jazz, and Opera.
Wintergrass is also passionate about music education. There are several workshops and classes throughout the festival for all levels of musicians and all ages. Thanks to the generosity of the D’Addario Foundation and Acoustic Sound patrons, scholarships are available for every youth education program. They offer 7 education programs specifically tailored for young children to young adults. The Pintgrass program is for kids ages 4 to 6 who are being introduced to music. Ages 7-12 The Youth Academy is a two-day musical immersion into Bluegrass tradition and creativity.
The Wintergrass Youth Orchestra is an annual event that brings together 120 high school aged string players in an orchestra that is joined by top-notch Wintergrass performing artists. For students that attend the Youth Orchestra, they can continue on and join “YATT” Youth Academy Teacher Training working with younger children, leading small groups, assisting with festival business, and performing.
There’s plenty to do at this 4 day event! You can buy a full day pass, or a day pass bouncing in and out of each room listening to intimate live shows from some top artists such as Billy Strings one of the best Blue Grass guitarists, or The Steep Canon Rangers an American Bluegrass band known for touring with Steve Martin. Catch Tommy & The Rozumatics at their only appearance at the “Eques Dinner Concert”, Saturday only from 4-6 pm. there’s additional cost for this show.
If you’re looking to expand your passion for music you can sign up for their numerous workshops, from Story Telling Through Song to learning the Transition From Fiddle To Bluegrass.
This is a fantastic event that Bellevue welcomes each year. A shout out to many of the local businesses that go above and beyond to help make this local event a one to remember. You can enter in and out the venue so if you’re looking for some lunch, or drink in between shows check out some favorite places such as 13 Coins, Paddy Coynes, and PF Changs.
The festival opens on Thursday at 5:30 and runs late each night through Sunday evening. Ticket prices vary so check out their website for the package that works best for you and your family. All kids under 12 are FREE! For a full list of their program download it here. You can follow more information on their Facebook page and see more upcoming events.
Can’t wait to attend!
Nicole
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