Music Under the Stars has been a favorite Sunday night tradition since 1947. The concerts feature the Des Moines Metro Concert Band conducted by Clarence Padilla - Iowa's only professional concert band - and the Metro Big Band.   Enjoy a variety of great music by central Iowa's top musicians - the same performers who play with the Des Moines Symphony, the Broadway Series at the Civic Center, and the Des Moines Big Band.  The concerts are free and open to all.  Pack your blanket or lawn chair, and bring a picnic basket or enjoy concessions by Carlos O'Kelly's. Gather up your friends and family and join us this summer when great music once again fills the air on the grounds of our State Capitol. 

NEW STARTING TIME: 7 pm

2012 Season Schedule

JUNE 17
Des Moines Metro Concert Band ·  Metro Big Band
“Sounds of the Summer”

 JUNE 24
Des Moines Metro Concert Band ·  Metro Big Band

“A Little Night Music”

SPECIAL GUEST VOCALIST:
FRED GAZZO

 JULY 1
Des Moines Metro Concert Band · Metro Big Band

“Spirit of America”

 
JULY 8
Des Moines Metro Concert Band · Metro Big Band

“It’s Showtime”

SPECIAL GUEST VOCALIST:
MAX WELLMAN

 JULY 15

JAZZ IN JULY IN COOPERATION WITH THE METRO ARTS ALLIANCE OF GREATER DES MOINES:
The Soya Vista Jazz Orchestra with Gina Gedler 

JULY 22
Iowa Military Veterans Band

Do you have a gently used Band or Orchestra instrument around your house that is no longer being played?  Children who are provided a quality arts education experience an increased sense of belonging, and are less likely to drop out or experience problems with substance abuse.  They perform better in reading and math.  They learn teamwork and cooperation. 

Unfortunately, many children who want to join their school band or orchestra are unable to, because their families can't afford the cost of renting an instrument, and there are not enough instruments to go around in our schools.  Music Under The Stars collects and repairs instruments and donates them to local schools where they are needed.  If you have an instrument that you would like to donate, please contact us.  You can make a difference for children in our community!

You can bring an instrument to a concert, or request a volunteer to pick it up.  For more information, contact us at starmusic1947@aol.com.  Your contribution is tax deductible.