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Big Ears Festival Tickets

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About the Big Ears Festival

Founded by Ashley Capps of AC Entertainment, Big Ears began with a vision to celebrate the convergence of innovative music and artistic collaborations. This mission is deeply embedded in the festival's DNA, driving its activities and the selection of Knoxville, a city increasingly recognized as a cultural hotspot, as its nurturing ground.

The March musical gathering makes use of non-traditional venues, from churches to historic theaters, creating an immersive experience that blurs the lines between the audience, the artists, and their environment. This choice showcases Knoxville's architecture and aesthetics and encourages visitors to explore their surroundings and contribute to the local economy.

Big Ears has received national media coverage and acclaim for its bold programming. It’s known for its artist residencies and special projects, which underscore the organizers’ desire to honor musical pioneers and foster new works. These initiatives demonstrate dedication to enriching the landscape and providing educational opportunities.

As the festival looks to the future, it continues to build on its reputation for delivering rare and exclusive performances. Its commitment to diversity, inclusion, and innovation, as well as its community engagement efforts, are what make Big Ears so transformative. The loyal fan base and influx of new attendees each year suggest that it will remain a pivotal celebration of the arts for years to come.

Big Ears Festival Lineup

The Big Ears Festival is a diverse mosaic of musical exploration, weaving together avant-garde jazz, experimental rock, classical compositions, and electronic soundscapes. Each year, the selection process meticulously curates an array of groundbreaking artists and boundary-pushing performers, offering attendees an immersive journey through the forefront of contemporary music innovation. 

The 2024 Big Ears lineup included these incredible artists: 

  • Herbie Hancock

  • Jon Batiste

  • André 3000: New Blue Sun Live

  • Rhiannon Giddens

  • Adrianne Lenker

  • Laurie Anderson

  • Sons of Chipotle (John Paul Jones & Anssi Karttunen)

  • Brad Mehldau

  • Charles Lloyd

  • Digable Planets

Big Ears Festival Moments That Made Headlines

The Big Ears Festival has hosted iconic performances that have captured both national and global attention. Since its inaugural year in 2009, the event has become synonymous with avant-garde music and boundary-pushing acts. These moments from Big Ears history that have made headlines:

  • 2009: Inaugural year attendees saw an impressive lineup of acts that included Anohni and the Johnsons, Burning Star Core, Philip Glass, Jon Hassell, Neil Hamburger, and more, establishing the festival’s significance.

  • 2010: The Big Ears festival honors influential composers, and Terry Riley was the event’s artist-in-residence. His 75th birthday was celebrated with three days of fabulous concerts. Bryce Dessner of The National further enriched the offerings.

  • 2014: The return of Big Ears was curated by Steve Reich. Highlights included artists such as Television, John Cale, Julia Holter, Low, and Jonny Greenwood of Radiohead, reaffirming the festival’s reputation for pushing musical boundaries.

  • 2017: Theo Bleckmann and Ben Monder's mesmerizing set at The Standard captivated audiences and culminated in a haunting rendition of The Beatles' "Norwegian Wood (This Bird has Flown)," featuring ethereal vocals and ambient guitar.

  • 2022: With headliners like Patti Smith, John Zorn, Moses Sumney, and Sparks, the festival saw its first sell-out event, attracting an average of 5,000 attendees daily, solidifying its status as a premier destination for avant-garde music enthusiasts.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much are Big Ears Festival tickets?

The cost of Big Ears tickets varies according to multiple factors, including the date, tier, and demand. If you have a specific budget in mind, explore prices at GoTickets.com, a secure reseller marketplace.

When did the Big Ears Festival start?

The Big Ears Festival was founded by Ashley Capps in 2009. The event, held annually in Knoxville, Tennessee, is celebrated for its broad lineup and has become a staple in the music festival scene.

Where is this year's Big Ears Festival?

The Big Ears Music Festival utilizes various venues throughout Knoxville, Tennessee, creating a diverse environment for attendees to explore a wide range of performances and other exhibits.

How many days does the Big Ears Festival last?

The annual Big Ears Festival spans four days and offers attendees an extensive array of musical performances, workshops, and art installations.

What time does the Big Ears Festival start?

Events at the Big Ears Festival typically kick off in the late morning or early afternoon. This schedule accommodates a variety of performances and activities, ensuring diverse offerings.

What time does the Big Ears Festival end?

The Big Ears Festival concludes on Sunday evening, with final performances wrapping up around midnight. This marks the close of a weekend filled with groundbreaking music and art.

Where can I buy Big Ears Festival tickets?

GoTickets offers Big Ears Music Festival tickets from trusted resellers on an intuitive platform. Plus, you can always feel confident in your secure purchase because every sale is backed by a buyer guarantee.

What should I bring to the Big Ears Festival?

When attending the Big Ears Festival, bring a valid ID, a refillable water bottle for hydration, ear protection, and comfortable clothing suitable for varying indoor and outdoor conditions.

What activities are available at the Big Ears Festival?

Aside from musical performances, the Big Ears Festival offers artist workshops, panel discussions on music and culture, film screenings, and art installations that enhance the sensory experience.

What is the average age of attendees at the Big Ears Festival?

The Big Ears Festival attracts a broad demographic, with attendees ranging from young adults to older music enthusiasts. This multi-generational mix is likely due to its diverse lineup and inclusive atmosphere.

Are there any age restrictions for the Big Ears Festival?

Big Ears is designed to be accessible to all ages, without restrictions. This inclusivity reflects the festival's ethos of bringing together a diverse audience to celebrate music and art in a communal environment.

Are explicit language and/or adult themes expected at the Big Ears Festival?

Given the diverse nature of its lineup, Big Ears activities might include explicit language and adult themes. Attendees should be prepared for a wide range of artistic expressions and unfiltered voices.

Are outside food or beverages permitted at the Big Ears Festival?

Typically, outside food and beverages are not allowed in Big Ear Festival venues, with some exceptions often made for personal water bottles. This policy helps ensure safety and supports event vendors.

Which festivals are similar to the Big Ears Festival?

Coachella and the Monterey Jazz Festival share similarities with Big Ears, offering eclectic lineups that span various genres and artistic mediums. They also have immersive and inclusive environments.

Can you come and go as you please at the Big Ears Festival?

Attendees of the Big Ears Festival enjoy the flexibility to move between venues, allowing them to customize their festival experience. This freedom supports the event's goal of encouraging exploration.

Is alcohol allowed at the Big Ears Festival?

Alcohol is available for purchase within designated Big Ears Festival venues but is subject to local laws and individual property policies. All refreshments should be enjoyed responsibly.

Is the Big Ears Festival sold out?

If you have seen the Big Ears Festival listed somewhere as “sold out,” don’t lose hope! You might still be able to score passes from GoTickets.com, a secure reseller marketplace with a 100% buyer guarantee.