A Week of Fabulously Free Entertaining Concerts, Dance, and Theater
Story Janelle Stear Photos Boise Music Week
In 2018, Mayor Bieter declared, “Music Week programs have fostered a love of music among the people in our community… and have inspired many to make music a large part of their lives…”
If you have not heard about Boise Music Week, then you must check it out this May 2-12. Boise Music Week, or BMW, is a week of different musical and theater events for all ages. “Boise Music Week exists to provide the city of Boise lots of free opportunities to hear different kinds of music, to see what is happening musically in our city, and to support local musicians and actors. There is a Church night, a school night; there is the musical at the Morrison Center, and other things… and it’s all free,” shares Michael Stear, local Music Teacher and long time BMW attendee.
Then and Now Boise Music Week
It all started back in May 1919, when Eugene A. Farner started a totally free, week-long, Broadway-esque musical celebration showcasing local talent in Boise.
Now 101 years later, Boise Music Week continues to be a yearly tradition. Everlyerly Schumacher, retired Boise Schools Music Teacher and the 2019 BMW’s President, explains, “During Boise Music Week’s performances this year our patrons will continue to see a great lineup of talent… Behind the scenes, the Boise Music Week Board, which consists of experienced volunteers, is getting updated to make the second century carry on as strong as the first. The many committees it takes to put Music Week together are taking a good look at practices, procedures, and technology. My goal as President is to encourage each committee to be good stewards in the use of local talent, volunteers’ time, and financial donations.”
Why Should You Attend Boise Music Week?
BMW will continue its traditional entertainment with a captivating mix of concerts and performances. To start the week BMW presents a Special Family Gala night at JUMP, in which a variety of musical performances where the public may wander and have dinner or refreshments; children may partake in music, dance, and drama activities. You will also be able to check out the displays and live representations of past BMW performances, as well as enjoy a formal piano concert given by one of Boise’s great musical treasures, Del Parkinson.
Another new event this year will be Song of the Basque, a look back at the history of Idaho Basque families and their contributions to past BMW events.
The week will end with the play, Thoroughly Modern Millie, “a look back in time to the culture, music, and dance of the era when Boise Music Week began” (Schumacher).
Each event makes a great opportunity for either a family outing, a date night, or a night out with friends. How often do you get to go out to experience superb entertainment for free?
Everlyerly Schumacher says, “Please come and join in the first season of the second century of Boise Music Week, May 2 – May 12, 2019.”
For more information and to see the complete schedule, check out BMW’s website at
