Ojai Music Festival engages community with expanded local programs and support

The Ojai Arts Commission meeting held on March 20, 2025, highlighted the significant role of the Ojai Music Festival in the community, emphasizing its cultural impact and ongoing evolution. The festival, a staple in Ojai since 1947, serves as a vital connection between local residents and the broader music community, drawing attendees from various regions.

Ara Guzelimian, the festival's artistic and executive director, joined the meeting via Zoom to discuss the festival's recent developments and its growing local engagement. He noted a notable shift in ticket sales, with approximately 40% of attendees coming from Ojai itself, reflecting a deepening connection between the festival and the local community. This trend is further illustrated by the festival's board composition, which includes eight Ojai residents among its 21 members.

Guzelimian emphasized the festival's commitment to community partnerships, particularly through its Bravo program, which provides music education to young students in Ojai. The program has expanded its reach, offering performances for seniors and collaborative projects with local schools. Upcoming events include the Imagine Concert, which will engage around 800 students from Ojai public and private schools, and a free community concert at the Ojai Meadows Preserve during the festival.

The meeting also touched on the festival's national and international recognition, with coverage expected from major publications like the New York Times and the Los Angeles Times. This year's festival, scheduled for June, will feature music director Claire Chase, who has curated a program inspired by Ojai's natural landscape.

Commission members expressed gratitude for the festival's contributions to the community, highlighting its role in enriching local culture and fostering artistic inspiration. The discussions underscored a shared vision for enhancing the festival's presence in Ojai and expanding its community-oriented initiatives.

In conclusion, the Ojai Arts Commission meeting reaffirmed the Ojai Music Festival's integral role in the cultural fabric of the community. As the festival continues to evolve and strengthen its local ties, it promises to remain a cornerstone of Ojai's artistic identity, with plans for further engagement and collaboration in the years to come.