For Artists
Perform at Soundacruz
Proposals open now for September 5, 2026
Sound Art, Not Music
Soundacruz is a sound arts event, not a music event. Work defined solely by pitch, melody, rhythm, tempo, or meter might not be appropriate. If your proposed work sounds like music, especially popular music of any known genre, this might not be the right venue for you. If your work is experimental, idiosyncratic, focused on sound design, sound production, acoustic systems, or musical ideas outside the mainstream, this might be just the right venue for you.
The Venue
All performances take place at the Loma Prieta Community Center/Gazebo, adjacent fields and forest spaces. — gazebo and adjacent fields on Summit Road in the Santa Cruz Mountains. This is an outdoor event. Artists set up 12pm–4pm, public hours are 4pm–8pm. All performances run simultaneously at low volume across the site. This is a listening environment, not a stage show.
Weather & exposure: You and your equipment will be outdoors and may be exposed to sun, wind, and other elements. If you or your setup require shade, plan to bring it — we cannot guarantee covered spots for every performer.
AC Power
Power is available on site. If you require AC power, bring a long extension cord — performance areas may be spread across the grounds and the nearest ac may not be close to where you set up. Acoustic and battery-powered work is equally welcome.
What We Provide
- → Outdoor performance space at the Loma Prieta Community Center/ Gazebo
- → Listing on the Soundacruz schedule once approved
- → Promotion via social media and local press
- → Connection to other participating artists
- → An audience that came specifically to listen
Artists bring their own instruments, equipment and sound system. DIY spirit applies.
Approval Process
Submit your proposal and confirm your email — we'll review it and be in touch.
Timeline
- Now → July 2026 — Proposals open
- August 2026 — Schedule published
- September 5, 2026 — Festival day, 4pm–8pm
Who's Signed Up So Far
Nick Alva
I play acoustic bass guitar, it is a quiet instrument so depending upon the setting I would need to have power. I am also a vocalist. No need for a PA. For what you list as the goals and parameters of your event I would perform, mostly improv, sounds of voice and bass. Minimalist ala Morton Feldman, and an approach based upon sumi-e art to some chromatic fullness. There might be some text as well. How long would you one to perform? My website is outdated, I will list it since it is required
morningstaraplay.com →fränky dark
soundscapes intense synths with intense vocals
open.spotify.com/artist/7kxOK31uR86MvsS1oFnwT1?si=ma-3ggGAT1CJGJV7f022-g&utm_source=copy-link →
John Kyle
I will present an immersive ambient/psych-folk sound performance built around voice, guitar, live looping, drones, and environmental textures. Rather than a traditional concert, the piece unfolds as a slow-moving sonic landscape inspired by the Santa Cruz Mountains, inviting listeners to wander, pause, and experience the sounds as part of the surrounding forest. The performance is flexible (20–45 minutes), requires a small footprint, and can be performed with standard AC power.
johnkyle.com →Trp-cornered Tent Show
3 peace instrumental electronic trio drums bass and Me on Synths el. clarinet Guitar percussion and sound sculpture and EFX
tri-corneredtentshow.bandcamp.com →Eric Neher
I’m using a monophonic synthesizer experimenting with different patches for strange sounds
bandcamp →Ready to Submit?
Describe your proposal and we'll be in touch. Questions? Email hello@soundacruz.com.
Submit a Proposal