The largest free music series in New Mexico, the Santa Fe Summer Scene takes the place of the long-standing Santa Fe Bandstand. In fact, what started out as a small showcase on the Santa Fe Plaza for local musicians and their fans, has grown to become one of the most hotly anticipated summer concert series in the state. The reason? From regional favorites to national touring acts, no matter what your musical taste, there’s something for everyone. But don’t take our word for it, check it out for yourself! This year’s season runs from June 16 through September 1, 2022.
Santa Fe comes alive with musical diversity for 2 1/2 months of performances, from the best of Santa Fe’s booming music scene, to Grammy Award winners and travelling acts. Every genre is represented, from American to Zydeco, including Blues, Country, Folk, Indigenous, Jazz, Latin, Rock, World music, and so much more. As many will attest, it is one of the best ways to spend a cool summer evening in Santa Fe.
Though many were curious how the passing of the torch would play out in 2021 – from local non-profit Outside In’s 18-year guiding hand, to Santa Fe and Albuquerque’s premiere promotions non-profit AMP Concerts’ stewardship – the feeling is one of overall satisfaction. And why not? AMP has been responsible for the free Friday Railway Concert Series and Sundays in Swann Park for years. Their proven track record with free concerts speaks for itself.
It helps that Jamie Lenfestey, director of Santa Fe operations for AMP Concerts, has gone on record stating, “We’re going to continue showcasing New Mexico’s strongest bands, while at the same time bringing touring national acts that we have access to. We just want to honor the tradition that Outside In brought to the heart of Santa Fe.”
That’s all some music lovers had to hear. Live music has been a part of the Santa Fe’s charm for over a century. When Outside In’s director Michael Dellheim decided to retire, it was paramount that somebody with experience take over the concert series.
But it was also a daunting venture. Under Dellheim’s watchful eye, the Santa Fe Bandstand had been voted Best Community Event in the Santa Fe Reporter’s reader’s poll for six years running (2013 – 2017), and Best Live Music Venue for two, in 2018 and 2019.
In 2020, the concert series was forced to go on hiatus and 2021 was the transition year. 2022 has become the year of expansion, incorporating the events on the Santa Fe Plaza outward to other locations across the city. For more information, visit the website.
This article was posted by Olivia
