All about that bass and treble

So it's been over a week and a half since T-Swift dropped 1989, the most life-altering album since Beyonce's eponymous release nearly a year ago, and now the rest of the music landscape just seems incurably dull in comparison, right? Totes. Luckily, the Festival of New American Music, a 10-day festival dedicated to up-and-coming composers and performers of contemporary classical music, is rolling into town for its 37th year in a row—and just in time.

The festival features acclaimed musicians such as the New York City quartet loadbang; solo pianist Lara Downes (pictured); and Sac State alum and violinist Chase Spruill playing with Michael Riesman, keyboardist for the Philip Glass Ensemble. Attendees will have the opportunity not only to witness world-class musicians take the stage, but to partake in master classes in violin, cello, piano and voice. Competitions among student composers and performers will also take place in addition to forums with professional composers. Oh, and the festival—including classes and lectures—is totally free.

Hosted by Sacramento State University, events are scheduled to take place on campus as well as at the Crocker Art Museum (216 O Street), McClatchy High School (3066 Freeport Boulevard), Rio Americano High School (4540 American River Drive) and Sacramento City College (3835 Freeport Boulevard). Friday, November 7 through Sunday, November 16; free; various locations; www.csus.edu/music/fenam.