The West Valley Arts Council announced the inaugural Make Music Day West Valley on Saturday, June 21 in conjunction with the global celebration of Make Music Day.

On the summer solstice, communities across the West Valley, including Surprise, will come alive with the sound of music — offering free, live performances and participatory events for people of all ages and skill levels.

Make Music Day began in France 40 years ago as Fête de la Musique and has since grown into an international movement spanning over 120 countries and 1,000 cities. Presented in the U.S. by the NAMM Foundation, this annual event invites everyone to join in the joy of making and experiencing music in public spaces.

Make Music Day West Valley is open to the West Valley Arts Council service region, which includes the following communities: Surprise, Avondale, Buckeye, El Mirage, Glendale, Goodyear, Litchfield Park, Peoria, Sun City, Sun City Grand, Sun City West, Tolleson, Wickenburg and Youngtown.

The event will feature free, live music in unexpected places — in libraries, galleries, senior living communities, coffee shops and retail stores, at storefronts and community centers — transforming the region into a stage for a day.

Participants, presenters and venues will be able to find scheduled events and “match up” at makemusicday.org/westvalley.

MMDWV empowers individuals, organizations, schools, and businesses to self-produce musical activities throughout the region. Whether you’re a solo artist, a band, a choir, a music teacher, or someone who simply loves music — you’re invited to participate.

Event ideas include:

• Drum circles and percussion jams
• Community sing-alongs
• Open mic sessions
• Instrument petting zoos
• Pop-up concerts in parks or storefronts
• Intergenerational music-making activities

From seniors to students, professionals to hobbyists, the entire West Valley will come together in locations throughout the region to celebrate the power of music.

To add your event to our growing list, contact Kathy Knecht at Kathy@westvalleyarts.org or 623-826-2074.

Local businesses and organizations are invited to support this region-wide celebration through tailored sponsorship opportunities.

Sponsors will benefit from regional exposure through social media, newsletters, local media outlets, city communications and more.