1. Introduction: The Journey Begins
Desert Roots Rising Stars A Non-Profit Organization
Supporting the Annual Music Festival and String Academy
this summer – June 9-14, 2025
Following its successful debut in the summer of 2024, the Desert Roots Rising Stars Music Festival and String Academy has established a nonprofit organization to expand its offerings and ensure the festival’s continued growth.
Non-profit Section 501(c)(3). – EIN: 99-4314874
Support Us“Empowering the Next Generation of Musicians.”
2. The 2025 Festival: A Celebration of Talent
Returning in June 2025, the Music Festival and String Academy is a week-long celebration showcasing exceptional young musicians from the Southern Nevada community as they continue their journey on the world stage. Audiences can enjoy a dynamic repertoire of beloved classical masterpieces, contemporary favorites, and even pop compositions.
“Classical to Contemporary: A Diverse Musical Experience.”
3. Inspiring Mentorship by World-Class Artists
These inspiring local performances are enriched by guest artists from the Helsinki Philharmonic, Sphinx Virtuosi, University of Colorado Boulder, and professional musicians from New Jersey and Las Vegas—many of whom have deep ties to Las Vegas and perform internationally. In addition to sharing the stage with students, these distinguished musicians serve as mentors, offering workshops, master classes, and one-on-one coaching to guide the next generation of artists.
“it’s an intense week of chamber music lessons, coaching and performances in small groups and one on one. You’ll get to hear the faculty perform at different concerts. It’s going to be a lot of work, but also a lot of fun, and I hope that you will come and join us and I’ll see you there.” – Scott Jackson
4. Founder’s Vision: Mentorship at Its Core
“Desert Roots Rising Stars was created to mentor young musicians through the extraordinary challenges they face as they develop their careers,” said Shakeh Ghoukasian, Founder and Executive Director of the festival. “Beyond mainstage performances, the festival provides aspiring musicians with direct access to accomplished artists, helping them refine their technical skills, enhance their musical interpretation, and gain valuable insights into career advancement.”
“Desert Roots Rising Stars was created to mentor young musicians through the extraordinary challenges they face as they develop their careers,” – Shakeh Ghoukasian
5. Community Engagement: Free and Inclusive Performances
The Music Festival and String Academy will feature performances at a variety of venues across the Las Vegas Valley, including Rita Deanin Abbey Art Musem, FreyBoy Art Salon, and Christ Episcopal Church. All concerts are free to the public, offering an accessible and family-friendly experience for audiences of all ages.
“Join us for free concerts in iconic Las Vegas locations!”
FreyBoy Art Salon
6. Scholarships and Artistic Excellence
In addition to providing world-class entertainment for the community, the Music Festival and String Academy is dedicated to affordable, scholarship-driven training for young musicians in Southern Nevada. By ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder access to high-caliber instruction, Desert Roots Rising Stars is committed to nurturing talent and fostering artistic excellence.
“Making Excellence Accessible.”
7. Building the Future of Music
As part of its mission to engage new audiences and empower young musicians, the Music Festival and String Academy remains devoted to offering diverse performance opportunities and state-of-the-art coaching and mentorship—preparing the next generation of Rising Stars.
“The Stars of Tomorrow Shine Today.”
8. Support Us
Join us in celebrating music education, free public concerts, and the distinguished alumni and rising stars of tomorrow!
Support Us