Music at the Big House

Discover new music with this one-of-a-kind series!

Debuting in 2024, this experimental program will share the talents of musicians performing diverse musical genres. Produced by local music professionals and set against the iconic backdrop of the Queen Anne Victorian mansion, this will be an evening of musical entertainment you can only experience at Brucemore. 

In the Round

The first ever Music at the Big House will take place in the mansion’s circle drive… as this evening brings to you a songwriters’ round featuring Jim Coates, Marcy Each, Gerard Estella, Marc Janssen, and Ben Schmidt. Through anecdotes and demonstrations, you’ll experience what it’s like to be part of an old-fashioned songwriting showcase. The night will be filled with original music performed by each artist, and reinvented group numbers of fan favorites.

Themes of the Digital Age

What do you get when you combine video game music with a Victorian mansion? A one-of-a-kind experience that you’ll only find at Brucemore! Prepare to be entertained and leveled up by the expansive, captivating, and musical world of video games at an unforgettable setting – the Brucemore big house! Join co-directors/gamers Lincoln Ginsberg and Dillon Rairdin, along with a smattering of other musicians/gamers, as they perform and reimagine video game music ranging from humble and nostalgic 8-bit graphics to immersive and awe-inspiring virtual worlds.


Music at the Big House is part of the Artisan Studio live performance series, aiming to support Iowa-based singers, songwriters, and technicians in their personal and professional pursuits.

In-kind technical sponsorship for this event is provided by Blue Sky Productions.

Things to Know Before You Arrive:

  • This event takes place outdoors primarily on pavement.
  • The site will open at 7:00 PM for parking and seating. The performance will begin at 7:30 PM
  • The only gate that will open to vehicles for on-site parking is at 2160 Linden Drive SE. Please arrive by 7:25 PM as the gate will close promptly.
  • You are welcome to bring your own picnics and beverages (beer and wine allowed) to enjoy at your table beginning as early as 7:00 PM or throughout the show. Concessions will not be available for sale at this event.
  • Pets are not allowed, with the exception of service animals.
  • This event takes place outdoors and may continue in light rain.
  • Please watch this video for information about how to navigate to the event.

What to Do When You Arrive:

  • Please enter through the gate at 2160 Linden Drive SE.
  • Follow signage and staff directions to open parking spaces. Accessible parking will be available.
  • Check in with the staff member near the mansion circle drive by providing the name on your order.

Ticket Policies: 

All ticket sales are non-refundable. Please read our ticket policy here. Online and phone orders are subject to a $4.00 processing fee per order. Tickets can be purchased at the event, subject to availability.

Weather Policies: 

The event occurs fully outdoors and may be held in light rain. If the event cannot be held due to weather, a decision will be made by 5:00 PM  and posted on Brucemore’s website and social media. Ticket holders will be notified by phone. There will be no refunds, only exchanges to another date if tickets are available.

Photography and Video Notice: 

At this event, photography and videos may be recorded. By attending this event, you may be included in these photos and videos. Your attendance at this event grants your permission to be in these photos or videos, which may be used for educational, archival, or promotional purposes. If you have concerns about your likeness appearing in these photos and videos, please talk to a staff member when you check in for the event.

Performance Dates


In the Round

Click on a date to purchase tickets.

June 21 is sold out.


Themes of the Digital Age

Click on a date to purchase tickets.


How does seating work?

  • Seating is a on first come basis at 30″ cocktail tables.
  • Individual ticket holders will be seated at tables with others who have purchased individual tickets.
  • Orders with a table of five or multiple tables will be given reserved seating to help us facilitate a smooth check-in process.
  • Tables of 4 will not be reserved.
  • Please call 319-362-7375 ahead of the performance if you need any accessibility accommodations.

Admission:

  • Individual Seat: $30 ($25 for donors)
  • Table of 4: $110 ($90 for donors)
  • Table of 5: $140 ($115 for donor) 
  • To use your donor discount, please sign in using the link in the upper right corner of the purchase page or call (319) 362-7375.
  • A $4.00 processing fee will be applied to all online and phone orders.