Music in Burlington, WI
Music by the Lake is a premier musical experience in an intimate lakeside setting on the shores of Geneva Lake. Located at George Williams College in Williams Bay, we feature memorable performances including some of the biggest names in pop, rock, jazz and classical music.
Visitors from Burlington also enjoy our shows for families and children, as well as our musical programs that enrich, educate and entertain.
Music by the Lake enhances the cultural and intellectual life of the Geneva Lake community, including Burlington. Memorable and affordable, our musical experiences appeal to music-lovers of all ages. Discover what makes us a treasured summer tradition!
For more information about our music for Burlington, please call 262-245-8501 or 866-843-5200 (toll free) or e-mail mbtl@aurora.edu.
Events for Burlington, WI: A History and a Revival
From 1951–1968, some of the world’s finest artists performed during the Music by the Lake series on the George Williams College campus. Among them were violinist Isaac Stern, baritone Robert Merrill, the Chad Mitchell Trio with John Denver, trumpeter Doc Severinsen, the New York City Opera and the Chicago Symphony. Unfortunately, the popular summer festival was discontinued because of costs and lagging support.
In 2001, Music by the Lake was revived with a performance by soprano Sylvia McNair. She performed in the pavilion tent, a gift from the Allyn Foundation, which stood on the site once occupied by Lewis Auditorium. The festival then once again became a celebrated event within the Geneva Lake community, including Burlington.
By the fifth new season, average attendance surged to more than 6,500 and continued to rise. Community and university leaders responded with a campaign to build a permanent facility.
With a leadership gift from the Ferro Family Foundation and contributions from more than 130 other people and groups, The Ferro Pavilion was dedicated in 2008. Since then, even more visitors from Burlington have been able to enjoy memorable music events throughout the summer.
Outdoor Music for Burlington, WI
Each outdoor music performance takes place in The Ferro Pavilion, which features wonderful natural acoustics as well as both pavilion and lawn seating.
All pavilion seats (Dress Circle, Orchestra and Rear Orchestra) are reserved and under cover. Outdoor terrace and lawn seating is general admission, and seats are provided in all areas except the lawn.
If you’ll be enjoying a performance from the lawn, feel free to bring blankets, chairs and a picnic basket. It’s a great way for visitors from Burlington to listen to music outdoors.
Parking is located at Williams Bay High School at 500 West Geneva Street (Highway 67) in Williams Bay.
World-Class Music for Burlington, WI: Contact Us
Recent world-class seasons have increased the popularity of Music by the Lake for Burlington residents with a passion for culture and art. Keep current with our seasonal schedule and choose the artists you’d like to see in our special setting!
For more information about performances, tickets and seating, please call 262-245-8501 or 866-843-5200 (toll free) or e-mail mbtl@aurora.edu.