Monterey County is a music lover’s paradise. There is something to please everyone from intimate venues to a world-class performing arts center and music festivals geared towards jazz, reggae, blues, swing and much more. Bring the magic of the Monterey County music scene home with these playlists.
Monterey Pop Festival
The performances at this legendary rock festival went down in music history. Take a journey back in time to the summer of 1976. This playlist features a selection of songs performed during that epic weekend and includes many original live recordings.
The California Roots Music and Arts Festival
This playlist by California Roots is sending nothing but good vibes and great music with songs that will fuel your day with positivity.
Monterey Jazz Festival
In September, the annual Monterey Jazz Festival hits a chord as the world's longest-continuously-running jazz festival. Tickets for the 2020 festival are on sale now and they have many playlists online so you can start enjoying some of the music right away.
Sunset Center
This state-of-the-art performing arts center in Carmel-by-the-Sea, features a 718-seat theater, stunning gothic architecture and incredible acoustics. Step into the musical world of this special venue with the following playlist.
Music from the Movies
Get swept away by the magic of music and cinema with these songs from movies filmed in Monterey County!
Listen to the Lyrics
Listen closely to this playlist featuring songs with lyrical references to destinations throughout Monterey County
Relaxing Instrumental
Here’s a little easy listening to help you get in a vacation mindset at home. Each of these relaxing instrumental tracks is an ode to areas in Monterey County.
Music from the Monterey Bay Aquarium
These relaxing melodies from Monterey Bay Aquarium will make you want to sway like a kelp frond and bob like a jellyfish.
Next Generation Jazz
Last but not least, the 2020 Next Generation Jazz Festival is being held April 3-9 2020 as a virtual event that you can enjoy from anywhere. One of the most inclusive festivals in the United States, this “Super Bowl of jazz education” welcomes performances by middle, high school and collegiate groups of every kind: big bands, combos, vocal ensembles, as well as conglomerate bands.