Greeley is home to an incredible community of musicians, and this year, one of its own has earned national recognition. Tim Gocklin, an adjunct oboe professor and woodwind chamber music coordinator at the University of Northern Colorado, has won a Grammy Award alongside his ensemble, Akropolis Reed Quintet, and composer Pascal Le Boeuf. Their piece, Strands, was honored with the Grammy for Best Instrumental Composition, showcasing the extraordinary talent cultivated in Greeley.

This remarkable achievement highlights not only Gocklin’s dedication to his craft but also Greeley’s role as a hub for musical excellence. But Gocklin isn’t the only incredible musician to come out of Greeley. The city has been home to numerous talented artists across a variety of genres. Groups like The Burroughs, known for their infectious blend of funk and soul, and Giants & Pilgrims, who merge folk-inspired music with visual art, have captivated audiences near and far. Rock duo In the Whale has made waves with their raw, high-energy sound, while The Stubby Shillelaghs keep the spirit of Celtic folk music alive. Classical and avant-garde talents also thrive in Greeley, with cellist Ian Cooke and composer Paul Elwood pushing creative boundaries. These artists, along with many others, have made a lasting impact on the music scene, showcasing the city's diverse and evolving musical identity.

The Burroughs on stage at State of the CityThe Burroughs recently performed at Greeley's State of the City address at the AIMS Welcome Center.

Greeley’s thriving music scene isn’t just about its artists—it’s also home to incredible venues where locals and visitors can experience live performances year-round. Whether you're into jazz, folk, rock, or orchestral music, there’s a stage for every taste.

Union Colony Civic Center

The Union Colony Civic Center is Northern Colorado’s premier performing arts venue and is proudly owned and operated by the City of Greeley. Built in 1988 with a combination of public funds and private donations, the UCCC is home to two performance venues, Monfort Concert Hall, which seats 1,686 and Hensel Phelps Theatre, which seats 214. With over 100 events held per year, the UCCC offers a wide variety of Broadway musicals, concerts, comedy shows, and many local dance and school performances.

See what's coming to UCCC next: here.

Moxi Theater

Moxi Theater is located in the heart of downtown Greeley, CO. The Theater has been the city’s live music destination since 2013. The venue accommodates up to 360 guests for concerts, maintaining one of the most intimate and unique concert-going experiences found along the Front Range of Colorado. Equipped with professional sound and lighting systems, a full-service bar, and the wonderful dining options found downtown at Luna’s Tacos and Tequila and Stella’s Pinball Arcade and Lounge, adjacent to the venue, the Moxi guarantees both an immersive musical and comfortable listening experience. Check out upcoming events here!

Kress Cinema & Lounge

The Kress Cinema and Lounge is Greeley’s only independent movie theater. It is also a full-service bar and restaurant that provides movie-goers and bar patrons with specialty cocktails, craft beer, wine and gourmet small plates, in addition to classic concessions. Located in downtown Greeley’s historically renovated Kress Building, the theater takes advantage of the high, decorative plaster ceilings to create a large viewing space with historic ambiance. Customers are able to dine and enjoy beverages in our theater during a movie as well as in our lounges at anytime.

Learn more about the unique showings at Kress, here.

Greeley’s rich musical landscape continues to grow, and whether you’re a lifelong resident or a visitor, there’s always something new to discover. From Grammy winners to grassroots musicians, this city is full of artistic talent waiting to be heard.