Local musicians shine for Montana Music Event

The Montana Music Event on Aug. 11 will showcase more than a dozen local musicians including North Valley Music School faculty and students.  

The event held at Stillwater Landing outside Whitefish is a fundraiser for the nonprofit music school. In its eighth year, the gathering provides essential funds for music programming and is an opportunity to bring musical performance to the community.  

“Summer in Montana is almost universally defined by being outside, listening to music, eating good food with good people, and being on the water,” said NVMS Director of Opportunity Jessica Shaw. “Happily, the Montana Music Event hits all the high notes while raising money for music at the same time. We hope everyone can attend and we can change lives through music together.” 

Performers include Bowdrie Krack, Jason Cole, Tim Helnore, Hilary Osterberg, Rachelle Klein, Jeremy Reinbolt, Tracy McDowel, My Ideal Day Band, and WildWind. The master of ceremonies is NVMS music teacher Catherine Robinson. 

The family-friendly event also features food trucks, craft beer, and wine. Main Gates open at 5:30 p.m. and the show will start at 6 p.m.  

General admission tickets are $25, junior tickets are $5, and carpool tickets are $50. Kids aged 4 and under get in free. Blankets, chairs, and cash are encouraged. Service animals are welcome; personal pets are asked to remain at home.  

Prior to the main event, a VIP Social is from 5-6 p.m. Tickets are $100 and limited to 75 guests. The VIP Social includes music by Christian Johnson & Friends, priority parking, two drink tickets, dinner from DeSoto Grill, dessert, a thank you gift, and the chance to mix and mingle with the event’s performers. Online VIP Ticket sales close at 11 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 8. 

The event is made possible by beer sponsor Jeremiah Johnson Brewing, wine sponsor George’s Distributing, and venue sponsor Stillwater Landing Ownership Group.  

Online pre-sales are strongly encouraged and are available at northvalleymusicschool.org/mme/