Every year in August, Washington Island welcomes its Music Festival, a series of concerts led by Artistic Director Stephen Colburn, principal oboist of the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra. World-class musicians donate their talents to the Festival, spending two weeks living and performing on the Island and establishing strong ties to the community.
Sponsored by the Washington Island Art & Nature Center, the Festival’s events are now the heart of the Island’s summer music schedule. A growing outreach program complements the chamber music concerts, open rehearsals and lectures, and children’s programs in the Island’s beautiful performing arts center.
The Music Festival depends on the effort of many people: dedicated volunteers, local businesses, granting agencies, and, of course, the music lovers who attend concerts. Many individual donors respond generously to the annual fund drive, our largest source of funding, and to the Memorial Day Benefit – a buffet dinner, concert, and a combination silent and live auction.
