IN THE STACKS

Listen to Chamber music at beloved Libraries throughout Monterey

In the Stacks is a free community concert series bringing the beauty of live classical music into libraries throughout Monterey. Featuring intimate performances by wind and string ensembles, these concerts offer a unique opportunity to experience world-class music up close in a relaxed setting. Seating is provided—come and enjoy an inspiring musical escape among the books!

SALINAS COMMUNITY CONCERT

An annual event held in the heart of Salinas

The Community Concert presents CBF chamber ensembles in a FREE concert with a casual, relaxed setting. This beloved one-hour concert at Cypress Community Church in Salinas is a nearly 40-year-old tradition on the Monterey Peninsula and is suitable for the entire family. Short reception follows to meet and greet!

FAMILY CONCERT

The Epic Adventures of Leonard & Rasmus

This performance is great for parents and kids! Join Leonard & Rasmus in this interactive family concert as they go on an adventure with a classical music soundtrack. Suitable for ages 3+, a perfect multigenerational experience.

The family concert is free, but we ask that you reserve your ticket ahead of time. 

TOWER BRASS

Enjoy Tower Brass before Main Concerts on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday (Not including Best of the Fest)

Enjoy pre-concert music performed by the Festival’s Tower Brass before most Main Concerts. Tower Music is one of the oldest traditions at the Carmel Bach Festival. It began in 1936 with the Heralding Trombones, led by two generations of the Stewart Family, who performed well into the 1960’s until the Festival Orchestra brass section was asked to carry on the tradition as it does today. In the early days, they played from the balcony window of the old Sunset Auditorium which opened onto the parking lot and from the Carmel Mission bell tower, thus earning the nickname “Tower Music.”

CHORUS PERFORMANCES

Enjoy Chorus Performances before Main Concerts on Monday

Enjoy pre-concert music performed by the Festival Chorus before many Main Concerts. The Chorus is made up of dedicated volunteers from the community who share a deep passion for singing and for the Festival. Their performances welcome audiences with uplifting choral music and continue a beloved tradition that has been part of the Carmel Bach Festival for generations.

MASTERCLASSES

Our Professional Development programs offer free public masterclasses throughout the Festival

The Virginia Best Adams (VBA) Program and the Baroque & Classical Academy (BCA) provide outstanding opportunities for musicians to deepen their understanding of Baroque and Classical music while working with renowned mentors. Each program includes free public masterclasses where participants explore vocal and instrumental techniques, performance skills, and artistic expression in a welcoming, discovery-driven setting. The VBA program emphasizes vivid communication of Baroque repertoire, while the BCA offers comprehensive training with internationally acclaimed musicians, extending beyond performance to include program curation, audience engagement, and the business of music.

ACCOMODATIONS

The Carmel Bach Festival is dedicated to creating an inclusive and welcoming experience, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to share in the joy of classical music through a variety of resources and accommodations.

PATRONS WITH DISABILITIES

If you need accommodations, please inform the ticket agent at the point of sale or make a note on your order form when purchasing online.

We provide the following accommodations:

• All venues are wheelchair and walker accessible.
• Patrons with limited mobility may be dropped off in the parking circle at Sunset Center (in front of the box office), and a limited number of accessible parking places are available on the Sunset Center grounds on a first come, first served basis.
• Please arrive early to all venues to allow adequate time for parking and seating.
• A limited number of assisted listening devices are available from the House Manager at Sunset Center.

For additional support, please contact our Box Office. We will do our best to ensure you are safe and comfortable!