The OKM Music Festival was originally called the “OK Mozart International Festival” when it began in 1983, after Nan Buhlinger, Bartlesville musician, arts administrator and community leader, met Ransom Wilson, as the Solisti New York Orchestra, led by Wilson, was performing at the Bartlesville Community Center as part of a U.S. tour.

Wilson and Buhlinger thought this would be a great place for a music festival, given the exemplary acoustics at the Bartlesville Community Center. After a lot of hard work, their idea came to fruition and the first festival kicked off during a weekend in June 1985. Wilson served as artistic director and Buhlinger was executive director of the  music festival. It soon expanded to a 10-day festival, featuring many of the world’s finest performers in classical music, among them Joshua Bell, Sarah Chang, James Galway, Itzhak Perlman and Leontyne Price.

Today, the OKM Music Festival, held annually in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, is a vibrant celebration of the arts, bringing together world-class musical performances, cultural experiences, and community engagement in the heart of northeastern Oklahoma. Over the years, OKM Music has become a premier destination for music lovers of all ages, offering a diverse range of genres—from classical and jazz to contemporary and folk.

The festival features performances by renowned musicians, local talent, and emerging artists, creating a dynamic and inclusive atmosphere that resonates with both seasoned music aficionados and first-time festival-goers. Concerts are hosted in a variety of beautiful venues, including outdoor parks, historic buildings, and intimate indoor spaces, offering attendees an array of settings to enjoy the music.

Beyond the performances, the OKM Music Festival is dedicated to education and outreach: offering workshops, masterclasses, and children’s community events designed to inspire and cultivate a love for the arts among all ages. The festival also serves as a platform for local musicians, fostering creativity and collaboration within the Bartlesville community.

Whether you’re a long-time fan of the festival or attending for the first time, the OKM Music Festival promises a memorable experience that celebrates the transformative power of music and brings people together to enjoy the arts in one of Oklahoma’s most welcoming and picturesque towns.

Join us each summer for an unforgettable blend of music, culture, and community at the OKM Music Festival in Bartlesville, Oklahoma!