SAFFORD — The parking lot outside the AG Building at Graham County Fairgrounds was filled with RVs and cars this past weekend, while the air was filled with music and the commitment of love.
The third annual Matheson Music Festival took over the area and gave attendees the opportunity to see some of the finest Blue Grass, Americana and Country Music performers from all over the nation.
“We drove a lot and we met a lot of people,” said co-organizer Brianna DeRusha-Baxter. “We found good talent and we made sure to stay connected. And we made friends.”
– David Bell Photo/Gila Valley Central
Headliners included the Honey Buckets, Cisco and the Racecars, and Edgar Loudermilk; but the talent was not limited to the final performances of the day. Ettore Buzzini and the Faultiners drew a standing ovation from the crowd Saturday afternoon following the band’s performance of classical music on the banjo, traditional bluegrass and pop hits in a bluegrass style.
“When I heard Earl Scruggs, it was like I was hit by lightning,” Buzzini said. “That’s what started my music.”
There were also tents where musicians could jam together, and concert goers enjoy the improvisation.
– David Bell Photo/Gila Valley Central
And Saturday offered festival goers a one-of-a-kind experience, when they witnessed the wedding of co-organizers Brianna and Joe Baxter, with music provided by the couple as well as headliners Phoebe Hunt and Dominick Leslie.
“It was like synergy between the festival and getting ready, and having everyone together,” Brianna said. “This is our community, this is our people, these are our friends and family.”
The dates were also announced for the 2027 Matheson Music Festival — Feb. 10-15 — at Graham County Fairgrounds.
Founded by Kevin and Ginny DeRusha, the Matheson Music Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the lives of youth through accessible, high-quality music instruction. The organization provides lessons in voice, piano, fiddle, ukulele, and guitar, with an emphasis on music therapy, theory, and songwriting.
– David Bell Photo/Gila Valley Central
