Make Music Phoenix Performer Lineup

MAKE MUSIC PHOENIX

PERFORMER LINEUP

Discover the local talent at each venue:

Carlito Stewart on the Valley Metro Light Rail, Live Music on the Move — TBD
Lumar at Rosie’s House, Make Music Phoenix Kickoff — 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Start With Music at Children’s Museum of Phoenix, Early Childhood Music Exploration — 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Aaron White at The Heard Museum, Free Family Summer Saturday — 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Northwest Valley Ukulele Club at the Arizona Center, Music & Play for All Ages — 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM*
Ivory & Strings at Arizona Opera, Music, Movement & More at the Wittcoff Black Box — 10:00 – 11:30 AM
Opera for Lunch at Arizona Opera, Music, Movement & More at the Wittcoff Black Box — 12:15 – 1:15 PM
Orpheus Male Chorus of Phoenix at Arizona Opera, Music, Movement & More at the Wittcoff Black Box — 1:30 – 2:30 PM
Trip Hazard at Strip Mall, Coffee + Vibes + Vinyl’s — 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Mariachi Quartet at Acacia Library, Live Music at the Library — 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM
Mariachi Quartet at Burton Barr Central Library, Summer Solstice Celebration — 2:00 – 5:00 PM
Emilio Vargas at The BE KIND Community Education Center, Mixing Beats with Garage Band — 3:00 – 6:00 PM
Members of Saboten Taiko at Fushicho Daiko Dojo, Taiko Drumming Workshop — 3:30 – 5:00 PM

Cellist

Playing jazz, classic, and pop

Carlito Stewart

Between 7:00 – 9:00 AM

Live Music on the Move: Carlito Stewart Performs on Valley Metro Light Rail

Performer Bio

Carlito R. Stewart is a Phoenix-based cellist known for his dynamic style and genre-blending performances. A lifelong musician, Carlito began studying cello at age 9 and developed a deep appreciation for jazz, rock, R&B, blues, and soul—thanks to his father’s musical influence.

He holds dual AAS degrees in Music Business and Arts from Chandler-Gilbert Community College and is currently completing his Bachelor’s in Cello Performance at the University of Arizona under Dr. Theodore Buchholz. Carlito is a dedicated faculty member at Rosie’s House, where he teaches both group and private cello lessons, helping young musicians develop their skills and passion for music.

He has performed extensively across Arizona, including schools, community events, and benefit concerts, and has been a longtime faculty member of StringPlay, a creative summer camp for young string players. He has shared the stage with artists like Mike Block, Rushad Eggleston, Brittany Haas, and even the heavy metal band Disturbed, showcasing his versatility and passion for pushing the boundaries of traditional cello performance.

What to Expect

Make Music Phoenix hits the rails! This year, the Valley Metro Light Rail becomes a traveling stage, featuring a special set by Rosie’s House cello faculty member Carlito Stewart. Hop on and experience music in motion as you ride between Make Music Phoenix venues, all accessible by light rail.

Use Valley Metro to explore the city and enjoy free, all-ages music all day long on Saturday, June 21. Standard fares apply—music is free!

Plan Your Route

Rosie’s House (Westbound: 12th St/Washington, Eastbound: 12th St and Jefferson)
- Make Music Phoenix Kickoff — 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Children’s Museum of Phoenix (Westbound: 3rd St/Washington, Eastbound: 3rd St/Jefferson)
- Early Childhood Music Exploration — 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
The Heard Museum (Encanto/Central Ave)
- Free Family Summer Saturday — 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Arizona Opera (McDowell/Central Ave)
- Music, Movement & More at the Wittcoff Black Box — 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Harmon Library (11th St/Harmon)
- Staying Cool with World Music — 1:00 – 9:00 PM
Greenwood Brewing (Roosevelt/Central)
- Live Music + Craft Beers — 1:00 – 4:00 PM
Burton Barr Central Library (Roosevelt/Central or McDowell/Central)
- Summer Solstice Celebration — 2:00 – 5:00 PM

Valley Metro Website

Acoustic Duo

Playing contemporary, classics, jazz, R&B, and pop

LuMar: Luis Martinez and Marah Armenta

Between 9:00 – 11:00 AM

Start Make Music Phoenix with music, games, and fun at Rosie’s House to kick off the celebration!

Bio

LuMar is a versatile acoustic duo based in Phoenix, AZ, consisting of guitarist Luis Martinez and singer Marah Armenta. While presenting a unique soulful approach, LuMar provides live entertainment for any occasion, such as weddings, corporate events, restaurants, etc. LuMar also offers a full-band and performs valleywide with the Hip-Hop group, The Stakes.

What to Expect

There’s no better way to begin Make Music Phoenix than at Rosie’s House! From 9:00 to 11:00 AM, enjoy a special kickoff event featuring a Talent Show starring Rosie’s House alumni, current students, and staff—including a soulful set by local favorite LuMar, the acoustic duo known for blending smooth vocals with feel-good vibes.

Come celebrate with music, games, and activities as we launch into a citywide day of music-making. Whether you’re performing, supporting, or just stopping by, you won’t want to miss this joyful and welcoming start to the day. Let’s make some music together!

About Venue

Rosie’s House: A Music Academy for Children
919 E Jefferson St.
Phoenix, AZ 85034

Rosie’s House: A Music Academy for Children is located in the heart of downtown Phoenix, dedicated to transforming lives through music education. As one of the largest 100% tuition-free music programs in the nation, Rosie’s House serves students from diverse backgrounds, fostering creativity, discipline, and community through the power of music.

Our newly expanded campus features vibrant classrooms, performance spaces, and a welcoming environment that inspires young musicians to grow and thrive. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or are part of the Rosie’s House family, we’re excited to open our doors for Make Music Phoenix and celebrate the joy of music with you.

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Early Childhood

Performing songs, hosting music games, and encouraging fun activities.

Start With Music

Between 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Sing, play, and dance with Start With Music by Higher Octave Healing—a fun and inclusive music experience designed for ages 0–8!

Bio

Through Start With Music, Higher Octave Healing invites families to build strong foundations for lifelong learning—one joyful note at a time.

Higher Octave Healing is a nonprofit organization based in Tempe, Arizona, dedicated to transforming lives through the power of music therapy and music-based programs. With a team of board-certified music therapists, educators, and passionate advocates, Higher Octave Healing creates inclusive music experiences that support emotional, social, and developmental growth for individuals of all ages and abilities.

One of their signature programs, Start With Music, is a research-based parent-child developmental music program designed for children age 5 and under. These engaging sessions feature songs, movement, and music games that promote early communication, social interaction, and pre-academic skills. Held in schools and community centers across the Phoenix metro area, the program partners with organizations such as Arizona First Things First and Tempe Thrive to Five to ensure greater access to high-quality early intervention resources.

What to Expect

Join us at the Children’s Museum of Phoenix for a joyful and interactive Early Childhood Music Explorations event, designed for children ages 0-8! Families can sing, play, and dance while learning music basics in a fun and engaging environment.

Schedule of Activities coming soon!

Keeping Cool: We’ve got you covered! Just like last year, we’ll have evaporative coolers and water stations to help everyone stay refreshed. Plus, this year, we’re adding shade structures extending from the awning at our front entrance.

No tickets required to enjoy the music fun outside the museum entrance! Explore the Act One Culture Pass for special offers. Museum admission is not included. Click here for ticket information to enjoy additional family-friendly activities inside the museum.

About Venue

Children’s Museum of Phoenix
215 N 7th Street
Phoenix, AZ 85004

Ranked among the nation’s top children’s museums, the Children’s Museum of Phoenix features over 300 hands-on play experiences across 48,000 square feet, designed for children from birth to age 10. It’s a vibrant space where imagination, creativity, and fun come to life!

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Indigenous Music

Guitar, Singer, Songwriter, Native American Flutist, Flute Maker and Lecturer

Aaron White

Between 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Celebrate music and culture with live performance by Grammy-nominated artist at the Heard Museum!

Bio

Aaron White (Northern Ute/Diné) is a Grammy Nominated Award Winning Guitarist, Singer/Songwriter/Native American Flutist and Flute Maker, and Lecturer on the Culture, History, and Musical Properties of the Native American Flute. In 1991, Aaron formed the groundbreaking group Burning Sky. They combined Native American flute with acoustic guitar, drums and pioneered a sound that earned them a 2003 Grammy Nomination for Best Native American Album for “Spirits in the Wind” and a 2004 Native American Music Award for Group of the Year as well as his first solo Flute recording “Moon Light Love Songs” that received Best Flute Recording from The Native American Music Awards for 2022.

For 28 plus years, Aaron has been one of Arizona’s busiest Indigenous Musicians, performing guitar and flute in concert, at many venues, museums, major events and private corporations. He has been a regular performer for many years at the Sheraton Grand At Wild Horse Pass Resort on The Gila River Reservation in Chandler, AZ and Venues in Northern AZ. Aaron has performed with John Densmore (The Doors), Jackson Browne, Taj Mahal, Bruce Cockburn, Jesse Valenzuela of The Gin Blossoms, Loli Vega(Red Bone), Buffy Saint Marie. Worked on soundtracks with Barry Goldberg(Keyboardists Paul Butterfield Band, Electric Flag/Mike Bloomfield, Bob Dylan), Greg Leisz(Slide Player K.D Lang, Jackson Browne). Opened for Taj Mahal, Jackson Browne, Dave Koz and many more notable musicians.

Aaron’s Flute/Guitar Music is used on many soundtracks of award-winning films such as 2023 release of “Lakota Nation vs United States” which opened in Theaters in the summer 2023 and will premiere on AMC+ and Hulu. The Doe Boy” (NHK Award Sundance Film Festival), “Sud Funk, Life of the Navajo” (ARD Germany), “Life of the Navajo” (NHK Productions Japan), and “Two Spirits” (PBS), “True Whispers – Navajo Code Talkers,”(PBS)and “Secret of the Lizard Woman(ABC), Grand Canyon National Parks (PSA’s). Aaron is an accomplished Native American Flute Maker.

His Flutes are part of the collection of The Musical Instrument Museum and are on display at the MIM in Phoenix, AZ, where Aaron has performed many times. Aaron White has been an artist in residence at The Heard Museum in Phoenix, AZ, Crazy Horse Memorial Custer, South Dakota, Southwest Museum University of AZ Tucson, AZ, Musical Instrument Museum Phoenix, AZ. Creating Native American Flutes and sharing the Music with those of all ages. Aaron believes music is medicine that can heal and mend the spirit of all people around the world, “All of us carry the gift of music in our heart and soul. May we always share these gifts with Gratitude and Warming Hearts”

What to Expect

The Heard Museum’s Free Family Summer Saturday is here! Experience a day filled with vibrant sounds of Indigenous recording artists from Canyon Records, interactive performances, and hands-on music-making activities held among the 12 galleries of the famed American Indian art museum. From flute demonstrations to instrument making for all ages, there’s something for everyone to celebrate the joy of music.

This all-ages event is part of the worldwide Make Music Day celebration, turning public spaces into musical playgrounds. Don’t miss this chance to make music, connect with the community, and discover the power of sound in a one-of-a-kind setting!

Event Highlights

Gourd Rattle-Making Workshop with the Yaqui Pride Project
Create your own painted gourd rattle in this hands-on workshop led by members of the Yaqui Pride Project. All materials provided (while supplies last). Space is limited. Pre-registration coming soon!
Music-Themed Art Search Around the Museum
Go on an interactive adventure as a family and explore music- and instrument-inspired artworks throughout the museum.
Flute Performance & Demonstration by Aaron White (Northern Ute/Diné)
Enjoy the soothing sounds of Native American flute with Grammy-nominated artist Aaron White.
Hands-on Art Activities for Families
Enjoy a variety of creative art-making activities inspired by music and sound.
Designated Quiet Zone
A low-sensory space for guests who may need a break from the excitement — perfect for relaxing and recharging.
Kids Passport Bookmark from Make Music Phoenix
This keepsake encourages kids and families to explore, create, and connect through music — making the day personal, memorable, and joyful.
– Pick up your free Make Music Phoenix Bookmark Passport to start your musical adventure!
– Scan the QR code on the back of the bookmark to unlock DIY instrument activities you can make at home.
– Flip over your bookmark and reflect on your day!
– Share your favorite moments using #MakeMusicPhx or #HazMusicaPhx!

About Venue

The Heard Museum
2301 N Central Ave
Phoenix, AZ 85004

Located in the heart of Phoenix, the Heard Museum is an internationally recognized destination dedicated to American Indian art and culture. Featuring 12 galleries, an outdoor sculpture garden, and engaging exhibitions, it presents the stories of Indigenous peoples through both traditional and contemporary works.

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Ukulele

Ukulele Play-along and Performance

Northwest Valley Ukulele Club

Play-Along, 12:30 PM – 1:00 PM

Performance, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM

Roomful of Pianos, ukulele play-alongs, pop performances, and a giant floor piano activity for kids.

Bio

The Northwest Valley Ukulele Club is a group of ukulele players and singers who meet weekly to enjoy music and comradery. All skill levels are welcome and players from all areas are accepted. The group meets every Saturday at Fellowship Square Independent Living in the city of Surprise from 10:00 -11:30 and we also perform concerts at various events and functions throughout the valley. The cost to join our club is free and all of our music is accessible online. You can find us on Facebook “Northwest Valley Ukulele Club.” Please email Lauren Erickson at nwvuke@gmail.com for any inquiries about our club.

What to Expect

Make Music Phoenix at Arizona Center is a free, family-friendly celebration of music and community on Saturday, June 21 from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Join us indoors and in shaded outdoor spaces at Arizona Center for a full day of interactive music experiences:

Roomful of Pianos | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Step into a one-of-a-kind musical installation with multiple pianos open for all to play. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, come explore, improvise, and make music in a fun, welcoming environment!

Northwest Valley Ukulele Club Play-Along | 12:30 – 1:00 PM
Strum along with the Northwest Valley Ukulele Club in an interactive session for all ages and skill levels—bring your ukulele or borrow one onsite!

Northwest Valley Ukulele Club Performance | 1:00 – 2:00 PM
Enjoy a live set from the talented Northwest Valley Ukulele Club, showcasing a lively mix of classic tunes and community spirit.

Zoni Girls Roller Rink Takeover| 1:00 – 2:00 PM
Skate the afternoon away with the Zoni Girls! Enjoy free admission, discounted skate rentals, and a DJ spinning disco tracks at this high-energy pop-up roller rink experience.

Jumbo Floor Piano Activity | 2:00 – 3:00 PM
Kids (and kids at heart) can jump, dance, and play songs on a giant floor piano! A fun, interactive way to explore music and movement.

About Venue

Arizona Center
455 N 3rd St
Phoenix, AZ 85004

Located in the heart of Downtown Phoenix, Arizona Center is a vibrant destination that blends dining, entertainment, and community gathering spaces. With lush gardens, shaded seating, and unique local businesses, it offers a welcoming space for people of all ages to relax, explore, and connect.

Parking

Street meter parking is also available.
Valet Parking Available for One Arizona Center.
Parking Garage is located on the SW corner of 5th St. & Fillmore.

0-1 Hour:	$4.00
1-2 Hours:	$8.00
2-3 Hours:	$16.00
Max Daily Rate:	$20.00
Retail Validation:	2 hours free
Restaurant Validation:	2 hours free
AMC Theatres Validation:	4 hrs free

For questions related to parking, please contact the Arizona Center parking manager at 480.356.9139.

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Classical

Classical trio – strings and piano

Ivory and Strings

10:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Morning at Arizona Opera with Ivory and Strings—Experience a beautiful blend of piano and strings, performing classical and contemporary favorites in an elegant setting.

Bio

Ivory and Strings is a dynamic ensemble that blends the elegance of classical piano with the warmth of strings to create an unforgettable musical experience. Their repertoire spans classical favorites, contemporary arrangements, and original works, captivating audiences with their artistry and passion.

Performing as part of Make Music Phoenix, Ivory and Strings brings their unique sound to the beautiful setting of Arizona Opera, creating a moment of harmony and connection for all who listen.

What to Expect

Step into the Arizona Opera’s Wittcoff Black Box for a fun-filled day of music, movement, and hands-on activities for all ages! Enjoy live performances, interactive workshops, behind-the-scenes opera tours, and exciting opportunities to sing, dance, and play along.

10:00-11:30 AM, Ivory and Strings: Experience the elegant sounds of Ivory and Strings, a classical ensemble blending piano and string arrangements in a captivating performance. From timeless classical pieces to contemporary favorites, Ivory and Strings brings music to life in the beautiful setting of Arizona Opera.
12:15-1:15 PM, Opera For Lunch (optional): A $20 boxed lunch from Sacks is available with RSVP at least 48 hours in advance. Enjoy a full sandwich, chips, cookie, pasta salad, and water while immersing yourself in world-class music.
- Pre-registration is required – RSVP here or using the button below
1:30-2:30 PM, Orpheus Male Chorus: The Orpheus Male Chorus, Arizona’s premier men’s ensemble, invites you to join them for a special sing-along and performance at Arizona Opera. Known for their rich harmonies and diverse repertoire, Orpheus brings a blend of classical choral music, popular tunes, and audience favorites. Don’t miss this chance to experience the power of voices united in song—come sing along, enjoy the music, and be part of the Make Music Phoenix celebration!

About Venue

Arizona Opera, Wittcoff Black Box Theatre
636 N Central Ave
Phoenix, AZ 85004

Arizona Opera brings the magic of storytelling through music to audiences across Arizona, producing world-class operas, concerts, and programs in both Phoenix and Tucson. Celebrating over 50 years of artistry, the company blends classic and contemporary works, enriching communities with the transformative power of opera.

Opera

Opera Duet

Arizona Opera Duet

12:15 PM – 1:15 PM

A Midday Musical Delight at Arizona Opera with an optional boxed lunch at Noon for $20 (pre-order required).

What to Expect

10:00-11:30 AM, Ivory and Strings: Experience the elegant sounds of Ivory and Strings, a classical ensemble blending piano and string arrangements in a captivating performance. From timeless classical pieces to contemporary favorites, Ivory and Strings brings music to life in the beautiful setting of Arizona Opera.
12:15-1:15 PM, Opera For Lunch (optional): A $20 boxed lunch from Sacks is available with RSVP at least 48 hours in advance. Enjoy a full sandwich, chips, cookie, pasta salad, and water while immersing yourself in world-class music.
- Pre-registration is required – RSVP here or using the button below
1:30-2:30 PM, Orpheus Male Chorus: The Orpheus Male Chorus, Arizona’s premier men’s ensemble, invites you to join them for a special sing-along and performance at Arizona Opera. Known for their rich harmonies and diverse repertoire, Orpheus brings a blend of classical choral music, popular tunes, and audience favorites. Don’t miss this chance to experience the power of voices united in song—come sing along, enjoy the music, and be part of the Make Music Phoenix celebration!

About Venue

Arizona Opera, Wittcoff Black Box Theatre
636 N Central Ave
Phoenix, AZ 85004

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Choir

They perform a variety of classical choral, traditional, folk, and popular music.

Orpheus Male Chorus of Phoenix

1:30 PM – 2:30 PM

Sing Along with Orpheus Male Chorus of Phoenix at Arizona Opera—Join for a lively sing-along and performance, blending choral favorites and audience fun!

Bio

Founded in November of 1929, the Orpheus Male Chorus of Phoenix is Arizona’s longest continually performing choral organization, its debut performance occurring on Christmas morning 1929 on Phoenix Radio Station KTAR. Since its inception, Orpheus has performed in venues large and small throughout the Valley and the nation as well as in Canada, the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and on the European continent. Orpheus has created numerous recordings both on vinyl and on digital media.

What to Expect

10:00-11:30 AM, Ivory and Strings: Experience the elegant sounds of Ivory and Strings, a classical ensemble blending piano and string arrangements in a captivating performance. From timeless classical pieces to contemporary favorites, Ivory and Strings brings music to life in the beautiful setting of Arizona Opera.
12:15-1:15 PM, Opera For Lunch (optional): A $20 boxed lunch from Sacks is available with RSVP at least 48 hours in advance. Enjoy a full sandwich, chips, cookie, pasta salad, and water while immersing yourself in world-class music.
- Pre-registration is required – RSVP here or using the button below
1:30-2:30 PM, Orpheus Male Chorus: The Orpheus Male Chorus, Arizona’s premier men’s ensemble, invites you to join them for a special sing-along and performance at Arizona Opera. Known for their rich harmonies and diverse repertoire, Orpheus brings a blend of classical choral music, popular tunes, and audience favorites. Don’t miss this chance to experience the power of voices united in song—come sing along, enjoy the music, and be part of the Make Music Phoenix celebration!

About Venue

Arizona Opera, Wittcoff Black Box Theatre
636 N Central Ave
Phoenix, AZ 85004

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Vinyl DJ

Influenced by psychedelic rock, hip-hop, dance, cumbia, and funk

Trip Hazard

10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Kick off your day with Vibes & Vinyl, hosted by DJ Trip Hazard—where every record tells a story.

Bio

DJ Trip Hazard is a proud New Yorker living on O’odham land in Phoenix, Arizona. Heavily influenced by psychedelic sounds from the 70s, hip hop and dance music from Brooklyn in the 90s, and her time spent in Mozambique— Trip Hazard sees records as the vignettes of our beautifully diverse but interconnected human experiences across time and space. Whether it is an album of drum beats from the Congo, a psychedelic Cumbia record from Peru, or a compilation of James Brown deep cuts, Trip Hazard has a deep reverence for the history and cultural context behind the records she plays. She shares records that remind us that funk is a universal feeling, that every continent has music that you can get down and boogie to, and that coming together to share music is the stuff that makes life sweet.

What to Expect

Kick off your Make Music Phoenix experience with a high-energy DJ set at Strip Mall from 10 AM to 2 PM! Expect a vibrant mix of sounds to set the mood for a day of music, community, and good vibes. Whether you’re grabbing a drink or just stopping by, enjoy the beats in a space that embodies Phoenix’s creative spirit.

About Venue

Strip Mall
3508 N. 7th St
Phoenix, AZ 85004

At Strip Mall, the coffee—and the vibes—are surprisingly good. This neighborhood café is all about quality local brews, delicious bites, and a welcoming space where everyone feels at home.

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Mariachi

Known for their vibrant performances that celebrate Mexican musical traditions.

Medina Family Mariachi Quartet at Acacia Library

11:30 AM – 12:30 PM

Live music performance and fun for the whole family—part of the Phoenix Public Library’s Summer Reading Program.

Bio

The Medina Family are a mariachi ensemble based in Phoenix, Arizona, known for their vibrant performances that celebrate Mexican musical traditions. As students in the mariachi program at Rosie’s House, they are dedicated to honing their craft while carrying forward the rich cultural heritage of mariachi music. They’ve performed at community events across the Valley and are excited to return to Make Music Phoenix again this year to share their passion and joy for music with audiences of all ages.

What to Expect

Join us at Acacia Library for Make Music Phoenix, a fun-filled morning of creativity and community as part of our Summer Reading Program in partnership with Rosie’s House! Kick things off with a hands-on musical craft, then enjoy a live performance. This free, family-friendly event is a great way to celebrate the joy of music, make memories, and connect with the community.

About Venue

Acacia Library
750 E Townely Ave
Phoenix, AZ 85020

Phoenix Public Library is a dynamic system of 17 locations that serve as inclusive spaces for learning, discovery, and connection across the community. With a mission to inspire lifelong learning, the Library offers free access to books, technology, classes, cultural programs, and educational resources for people of all ages. More than just a place for books, Phoenix Public Library is a trusted community hub where curiosity is encouraged, creativity is nurtured, and everyone is welcome.

Acacia Library is located on Townley Avenue east of 7th Street and south of Dunlap Avenue. Visit Valley Metro for public transportation routes serving the library.

Venue Website

Mariachi

Known for their vibrant performances that celebrate Mexican musical traditions.

Medina Family Mariachi Quartet at Burton Barr Library

2:30 – 3:30 PM

A musical afternoon featuring youth-inspired performances, interactive experiences, and free family-friendly activities, all part of the Library’s Summer Reading Program.

What to Expect

Burton Barr Central Library‘s program features live music performances inspired by the youth programming theme: Color Your World, this event blends music, creativity, and community in a vibrant celebration of self-expression.

This will take place during the Library’s Summer Reading Program. Families are encouraged to engage in the free activities provided by Burton Barr Central Library including free admission to the Central Gallery and free meals for youth under 18 at the Kids Café. Discover more events here. Don’t forget to check out the awesome offerings available through the Act One Culture Pass.

About Venue

Burton Barr Central Library
1221 N Central Ave
Phoenix, AZ 85004

Burton Barr Central Library is located on Central Avenue just south of McDowell Road. Visit Valley Metro for public transportation routes serving the library.

Venue Website

Digital Music

Explore music from around the globe using Garage Band!

Emilio Vargas

3:00 – 6:00 PM

Explore the world of music with GarageBand at Be Kind Community Education Center! Visitors of all ages can create their own unique songs with instruments and sounds from around the globe.

Bio

Emilio Vargas is a jazz and classically trained saxophonist whose versatile sound and deep musical integrity have made him a sought-after performer across genres. His passion for music has led to performances with acclaimed artists such as blues legend Johnny Rawls, R&B vocalist Johnny Britt, New York jazz singer Cyrille Aimée, and Ballet Arizona, where he plays with the high-energy Latin band MambAZ.

In addition to performing, Emilio is a dedicated teaching artist committed to passing on his knowledge. He has led jazz workshops in Álamos, Sonora, Mexico, taught music production at the Musical Instrument Museum, and served as a mentor for marching bands across New Mexico. With a growing focus on electronic music, Emilio has developed expertise in music software such as Ableton Live, Logic Pro X, Soundtrap, and Sibelius—skills he brings to his work as both educator and producer.

Emilio currently teaches digital music and saxophone at Rosie’s House, where he leads both group and private lessons. He also remains an active performer, playing sax and flute with bands and singer-songwriters throughout the Phoenix area.

What to Expect

Visit The BE KIND Community Education Center for an interactive and creative Make Music Phoenix experience! From 2–6 PM, visitors can dive into the world of digital music-making using GarageBand on over 30 iPads.

Experiment with a variety of instruments and sounds from different cultures, mix beats, and compose your own masterpiece—no experience required!

Whether you’re a budding musician or just looking for a fun way to explore music, this hands-on event is perfect for kids, families, and music lovers of all ages. Don’t miss this chance to unleash your creativity and celebrate the joy of making music!

About Venue

The BE KIND Community Education Center by The Be Kind People Project
731 Grand Ave
Phoenix, AZ 85004

Located on Historic Grand Avenue in Downtown Phoenix, The BE KIND Community Education Center is a dynamic multi-function space designed to inspire learning, creativity, and community engagement by The BE KIND Project. It is home to impactful programs and provides fresh opportunities for community gatherings, workshops, and events that promote kindness, leadership, and personal growth.

Venue Website

Percussion

Japanese Taiko Drumming

Fushicho Daiko, Japanese Drumming

3:30 – 5:00 PM

Feel the beat with free Taiko drumming workshops and high-energy performances!

What to Expect

Fushicho Daiko is dedicated to sharing the power of Taiko, fostering teamwork, cooperation, and cultural appreciation through the art of drumming. Whether you’re a seasoned musician or a first-time drummer, you’ll feel the beat resonate through your soul!

Free 30-minute classes offered on the hour and half-hour—jump in and try it for yourself!

Don’t miss this chance to immerse yourself in the pulse of Taiko and be part of a dynamic musical tradition.

About Venue

“The Dojo” on Grand Avenue is the home of Fushicho Daiko, filled with tumble mats, full-length mirrors and enough drums to keep everyone playing! Through performances, workshops, residencies, and regularly scheduled classes, Taiko is alive and well in the Southwest.

Address

Fushicho Daiko Dojo
925 Grand Ave
Phoenix, AZ 85007

Venue Website

Celtic

Celtic and Irish ballads and tunes

Ice Machine

Not Booked

Available: 9 am to 9 pm
Set Time: 51-60 minutes

Bio

Ice Machine is a trio of musicians that performs Celtic and Irish ballads and tunes.
We play acoustic instruments including the Irish Bodhran, dulcimer, guitars, and banjo.

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Soloist

Indie-Folk, Pop, Singer/Songwriter

Kelsea Robin

Not Booked

Available: 9 am to 9 pm
Set Time: Flexible

Bio

Kelsea Robin is a violinist/songwriter who creates atmospheric orchestral pop with just her violin and voice, and the clever use of technology. Her sound was forged on the indie stages of New York City, where she spent her days studying classical violin, and her nights in bars and clubs forming her creative identity. With a flair for the dramatic and influences as varied as Fleetwood Mac, Anna Nalick, and 2000s J-pop, Kelsea’s lyrics dive fearlessly into the human condition.

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Jazz Band

Contemporary jazz, R&B

Uptown Sundown

Not Booked

Available: 11:00 am to 9:00 pm
Set Time: 31 minutes – 2 hours

Bio

Uptown Sundown is a dynamic contemporary jazz band based in Phoenix, known for their smooth blend of modern grooves and classic R&B influences. The band features the soulful saxophone melodies of Matt Horne, the rich keyboard textures of Mario Garcia, the deep, grooving bass lines of David Rowley, and the tight rhythms of drummer Nick Martinez. Joining them for this unique set will be none other than guitarist Jesse Espinoza. Together, they create a vibrant sound that seamlessly merges improvisation with contemporary arrangements, offering a fresh take on jazz for today’s listeners. Whether performing original compositions or familiar standards with a twist, Uptown Sundown captivates audiences with their infectious energy and musical chemistry.

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Jazz Band

Contemporary jazz, R&B

Josiel Perez-Hernandez

Not Booked

Available: Afternoon
Set Time: 31-60 mins

Bio

Josiel Perez and his band blend the fiery rhythms of Cuba with the soulful sounds of American jazz, creating a sound that’s both classic and fresh. Their performances pay homage to Cuban legends, bringing the rich traditions of Cuban music to life for Arizona audiences.

Josiel, a professional trumpeter, instructor, composer, and arranger from Cuba, is dedicated to sharing the finest Latin music Arizona has to offer. Don’t miss the chance to experience the energy and passion of Josiel Perez at Make Music Phoenix!

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