Sun Valley Music Festival Winter Season

Sun Valley Music Festival Winter Season 2026: Free Concerts with Benjamin Beilman

The Sun Valley Music Festival returns this March with three winter concerts in Ketchum. This year, the Sun Valley Music Festival Winter Season 2026 features violinist Benjamin Beilman as guest curator and soloist.

The concerts take place March 19–21, 2026 at the The Argyros Performing Arts Center. Even better, admission is free. However, guests must reserve seats in advance. As a result, audiences can enjoy world-class music in a small, intimate hall.

Benjamin Beilman Returns to Sun Valley

Violinist Benjamin Beilman is known for bold and expressive playing. In fact, The New York Times described his sound as “muscular with a glint of violence.”

Beilman last appeared at the Festival in 2018. At that concert, he performed the Violin Concerto in E minor by Felix Mendelssohn. He performed with Music Director Alasdair Neale and the Sun Valley Music Festival Orchestra.

Now, he returns for the Sun Valley Music Festival Winter Season 2026. This time, he will perform chamber music with Festival musicians. Additionally, audiences can expect a fresh and dynamic program.

Program Highlights

Each night features the same program. First, audiences will hear classic favorites. Then, they will enjoy modern works. Finally, the program combines traditional and contemporary styles.

Featured Music

The Four Seasons — Antonio Vivaldi
First, this famous set of violin concertos opens the program. Each concerto represents a season of the year.

Appalachian Spring Suite — Aaron Copland
Next, Copland’s music celebrates the American landscape. Because of this, the sound feels open and hopeful.

Road Movies — John Adams
Meanwhile, this lively modern work adds rhythm and energy. Also, it contrasts beautifully with the classical pieces.

Opening Solo Piece

Each concert begins with Sanguineum by composer Gabriella Smith. She wrote the piece for Beilman. Therefore, it highlights his technique and range. Afterward, audiences will hear the chamber works with the full ensemble.

Concert Dates and Times

The Sun Valley Music Festival Winter Season 2026 includes three concerts:

• Thursday, March 19, 2026

• Friday, March 20, 2026

• Saturday, March 21, 2026

In addition, all concerts take place at the The Argyros Performing Arts Center.

Evening Schedule

• Lobby opens: 6:00 PM

• Doors open: 6:30 PM

• Concert begins: 7:00 PM

Each performance lasts about two hours and includes an intermission. Also, audiences are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy the lobby atmosphere.

Free Tickets — Reservations Required

The winter concerts are free to attend. However, seating is limited. Therefore, guests must reserve tickets ahead of time.

Public Reservations

Public reservations begin Wednesday, February 18, 2026 at 9:00 AM (MT).

Guests may reserve two seats per household for one performance. To reserve seats, visit svmusicfestival.org.

Early Reservations for Donors

Festival donors receive early access. Specifically, Patron-level donors may reserve seats starting February 11, 2026 at 9:00 AM (MT).

To reserve tickets early, donors may call 208-622-5607.

A Unique Winter Music Experience

The Sun Valley Music Festival is well known for its summer concerts. However, the winter series offers a smaller and more personal setting.

As a result, audiences sit closer to the musicians. In addition, winter in Ketchum creates a beautiful mountain backdrop.

For that reason, the Sun Valley Music Festival Winter Season 2026 is one of the region’s most anticipated events. Also, it is a perfect way to enjoy classical music during the winter season.