Great American Songbook Foundation
Songbook City
City of Carmel // Jul 6 - Jul 31 ET
Event Details
Throughout the month of July, the City of Carmel will officially become Songbook City in celebration of the Great American Songbook Foundation and its mission to preserve and celebrate America's musical heritage.
Since 2007, the Great American Songbook Foundation has called Carmel home. Founded by five-time GRAMMY nominee Michael Feinstein, the Foundation is dedicated to preserving the history of American popular music through the Songbook Library & Archives, home to hundreds of thousands of artifacts that serve researchers, educators and music enthusiasts from around the world. Through programs like the Songbook Academy®, the Foundation educates young artists and connects audiences with this music through exhibits and public programs.
As the Foundation approaches its 20th anniversary, plans are underway for a future museum, research center and visitor experience that will expand public access to the Great American Songbook and further establish Carmel as a destination for music lovers from around the world.
Ways to Experience Songbook City
Attend Songbook Academy Events
Each summer, 40 talented high school singers from across the country gather in Carmel for the Songbook Academy, the Foundation's premier educational program.
Public Masterclass
Monday, July 13 – 2 p.m.
Singers receive real-time coaching from Michael Feinstein and Lea Salonga
Free admission
Songbook Showcase
Thursday, July 16 – 7 p.m.
Featuring all 40 Songbook Academy participants and Broadway’s Mandy Gonzalez
Pay-what-you-can admission ($5 minimum)
Songbook Academy in Concert
Saturday, July 18 – 7 p.m.
Culminating concert of Songbook Academy Week hosted by Michael Feinstein
Tickets available through the Fifth Third Bank Box Office (starting at $25)
Explore Unforgettable
Step inside the Traditions Senior Communities Songbook Gallery and experience Unforgettable, a new exhibit celebrating the soundtrack of America, presented by The Kresa Foundation. Featuring rare artifacts from the Songbook Library & Archives, interactive experiences and a recreation of Irving Berlin's studio with his custom-built transposing piano, the exhibit explores the timeless songs that have helped shape our nation's musical identity.
Opening during Songbook City in July 2026. Additional details will be announced soon.
Spot Songbook Legends Around Carmel
During the city's monthlong celebration, look for special street signs throughout Carmel honoring legendary artists and songwriters whose music helped define the Great American Songbook.
Take a stroll along City Center Drive or the Carter Green and use our map to discover each of the unique signs. If you spot a sign, snap a photo, tag @SongbookFoundation and use #SongbookCity.
New to the Songbook Foundation?
Stay connected and join our community.
We are deeply grateful to the City of Carmel, Mayor Sue Finkam and our many supporters for their partnership and belief in our mission. Together, we look forward to preserving this music, inspiring future generations and enriching Carmel's vibrant cultural community for years to come.
