Exploring the Green Music Center: Sonoma’s Cultural Hub

Sonoma County is a charming, casual county in the state of California. Here you can find people unwinding from the hustle and bustle of their lives and enjoying the wine scene within the county. The Green Music Center is one of the biggest attractions in the area, providing a performance art center unlike any other. Located within Sonoma State University, the Green Music Center stands as a beacon for anything art, culture and community related. Their year-round programs provide artistic inspiration for even the most casual of viewers. 

Let’s look a little deeper into the Green Music Center and what makes it one of the central hubs of Sonoma County. 

What Is The Green Music Center?

Before we get into the top things to do at the Green Music Center, it is important to know what it even is. The Green Music Center (GMC) is a performing arts center that opened in 2012. Philanthropists donated the funds to develop the center, who sought to create a landmark that would serve the region for generations to come. 

The Green Music Center consists of two main venues:

• Weill Hall: This 1400-seat concert hall is known for its stunning acoustics and incredible design. It has been the home for various world-class musicians, orchestras and performers. 
• Schroeder Hall: This smaller, 240-seating hall opens to a lawn, showcasing the stunning hills and vineyards. It is ideal for community events, festivals, and more intimate performances.

The atmosphere is a welcoming one, so you and your loved ones can enjoy sitting down and watching a performance within these halls.

Who Performs At The Green Music Center?

Being a performing arts center, the next obvious question is Who performs here? The programming is incredibly diverse, showcasing an array of local and world-class talent. It is home to a variety of performances, such as:

• Sonoma County Symphony: This symphony conducts talented local musicians, delivering a classical performance for the ages. They are often in partnership with nationally and internationally recognized soloists.
• Sonoma State University Music Department: Students are provided the opportunity to perform in a world-class environment. The center serves as a vital learning situation for future musicians to hone their crafts.
• Guest Artists and Performances: Over the years, the Green Music Center has had global icons welcomed within its walls. In 2025, they will welcome “Weird” Al Yankovic to their performing center for his upcoming tour.

Their events extend beyond music, including presentations, theater performances, and art festivals. It is a key player in the artist’s community in Sonoma County. 

Why Visit?

Now that we have covered what the center is, and who performs, you might be asking yourself Why should I visit? The Green Music Center is not just a place for music lovers—it is a destination for anyone who loves art, culture and beautiful surroundings. Its elegance and serene settings are bound to inspire your group as you travel throughout the building.

If you are stopping by Sonoma County, it is a must-see for your itinerary. Whether you attend the iconic Weill Hall, enjoy a summer evening performance under the stars, or explore the surrounding area, the Green Music Center offers something for you.