WoCo Fest

WoCo Fest 2025: Uplift is a two-day festival celebrating music by all gender-marginalized composers, taking place May 30–31 at the Mansion at Strathmore and outdoors on the Strathmore campus. As an official WorldPride Partner Event, this year’s festival showcases an eclectic lineup of LGBTQ+ and allied artists and ensembles, celebrating the voices of women and gender-marginalized composers in thrilling new ways. Friday’s opening concert will feature some of DC’s finest musicians, followed by a day of musical exhibitions, live composer workshops, outdoor performances, and transformative discussions. The festival will close out with an electrifying performance by composer/performer and media artist Pamela Z. 

Fri, May 30: Prepare to experience an evening of music that uplifts, inspires, and resonates long after the final note. Featuring everything from Chinese dulcimer and sitar to soaring choral harmonies and more, this electrifying Opening Concert of WoCo Fest 2025: Uplift celebrates the boundless creativity of Maryland and DC-based musicians. With mesmerizing melodies and bold new sounds, there's something to captivate and inspire every listener.

May 30 Opening Concert

Sat, May 31: Fulfill your wanderlust by immersing yourself in a day of music exploration at the second day of WoCo Fest 2025: Uplift at The Mansion at Strathmore and the Strathmore Gazebo and Lawn! Be enthralled by live composer workshops, engaging concerts and educational workshops with the BI team. Experience uplifting music’s evolution from medieval renaissance to experimental electronics. Your pay-what-you-can ticket grants you access to entry into the mansion. Each performance in the Mansion’s music room is ticketed separately, or you can purchase a discounted all day pass to attend all four music room performances. Outdoor performances are free and open to all—no ticket or registration required. Food trucks will be on site and don’t forget to bring your blanket or lawn chairs for the outdoor performances.

May 31 All Day in The Mansion

Boulanger Initiative and WoCo Fest 2025: Uplift is supported in part by funding from Strathmore, the Montgomery County Government and the Arts & Humanities Council of Montgomery County, the Maryland State Arts Council, The Paul M. Angell Family Foundation, The Aaron Copland Fund for Music, and The Alice M. Ditson Fund.