Wednesday, July 01, 2026
57.0°F

Chris Botti to perform benefit concert

KATHI SAMUELS / Contributing Writer | Bonner County Daily Bee | UPDATED 2 hours, 17 minutes AGO
by KATHI SAMUELS / Contributing Writer
| July 1, 2026 1:00 AM

SANDPOINT — Chris Botti is putting his considerable skills to work next month to help the region's next generation of artists.

Botti will perform Saturday, July 11, at the Martin Woldson Theater at The Fox in Spokane. The special benefit performance will support scholarships, educational programs and artistic opportunities for youth studying at the Music Conservatory of Sandpoint, which is presenting the concert.

The Grammy Award-winning trumpeter and is of today's most celebrated instrumental artists. Botti has captivated audiences around the world with his signature sound, lyrical artistry and extraordinary collaborations spanning jazz, pop and classical music. Throughout his distinguished career, Botti has performed with renowned artists including Sting, Andrea Bocelli, Tony Bennett, Barbra Streisand, Lady Gaga, Yo-Yo Ma, Herbie Hancock and many others. His performances have graced some of the world's most iconic stages, including Carnegie Hall, the Hollywood Bowl and the Sydney Opera House.

For the Music Conservatory of Sandpoint, the event represents more than a concert — it is an investment in the future of music. Proceeds will directly support young artists pursuing their musical dreams through the Conservatory's year-round programs, ensuring students throughout the Inland Northwest continue to have access to high-quality performing arts instruction and transformative artistic training.

"Chris Botti has long been recognized not only for his remarkable artistry, but also for his commitment to inspiring young musicians," said MCS board president Frank Geisler. "We are honored to bring an artist of his stature to Spokane in support of the next generation. This concert reflects our belief that great artists inspire great futures."

Located in North Idaho, Sandpoint has become a destination for the arts, drawing visitors and performers from around the nation through its vibrant cultural scene, alluring natural landscape and deep community appreciation for music. The Conservatory is excited to extend that spirit beyond Sandpoint by partnering with Spokane's historic Fox Theater to present an internationally acclaimed artist while raising awareness of the Conservatory's mission throughout the Northwest.

Founded in 2009, the Music Conservatory of Sandpoint has grown into a leading performing arts school serving more than 500 children and youth annually through private instruction, ensembles, outreach programs and performance opportunities. The organization is committed to making arts education accessible and meaningful for students of all backgrounds, helping young musicians develop both artistic excellence and lifelong confidence.

The Conservatory extends its sincere gratitude to the many community partners, corporate sponsors and individual donors whose support has made this event possible. Special recognition is extended to Like Media, whose dedication to community impact and support of local nonprofit organizations helps amplify awareness and share the stories that strengthen the region's arts and cultural community.

For those not wishing to drive, round-trip coach transportation will be offered for $50 per person. The bus will depart from downtown Sandpoint at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, July 11, returning immediately following the concert. Skip the traffic and enjoy a comfortable ride with fellow music lovers as you head to an unforgettable evening with Chris Botti.

Seating is limited. Bus tickets must be secured by July 8 and are available for purchase at sandpointconservatory.org/events. Reserve your spot early and make the journey part of the experience.

Hotel discounts are also available at the Spokane Club and Hotel Indigo when you mention the Music Conservatory of Sandpoint. MCS is proud to showcase Sandpoint through this regional event, bringing together students, artists and audiences from across the Inland Northwest.

Tickets for "An Evening with Chris Botti" are available now. For more information, visit foxtheaterspokane.org.