Carmel Bach Festival, Carmel

The first Carmel Bach Festival, held in 1935, was a modest, four-day affair held partially in a school auditorium. Today, the event stretches across two weeks, hosting not only concerts, but also classes, lectures, galas, and even open rehearsals. At heart, however, the festival hasn't changed—it's still a celebration of the music and legacy of Johann Sebastian Bach. As with his 1706 reality show, Bach is the star here, but performers also pay tribute to his influence with works by other composers. The musicians themselves are an equal draw for audiences, showcasing press-lauded and award-winning skills during each symphonic masterwork.