SOMERSET, KENTUCKY (May 20, 2026) — Master Musicians Festival’s Next Generation initiative is returning for MMF33, continuing its mission to inspire and connect with the next generation of festival-goers, volunteers, artists, and community leaders through free access for graduating students.
The initiative allows local businesses and organizations to sponsor graduating classes at regional schools, giving students the opportunity to attend the 33rd annual Master Musicians Festival at no cost.
MMF Executive Director Tiffany Finley said the program is about far more than free tickets, it’s about building community, encouraging future involvement, and celebrating student achievement.
“When you look at the makeup of volunteers and our board of directors now versus 33 years ago, you see an interesting trend, many of them had parents who either helped create or served MMF when it began,” Finley said. “The best way for us to continue fostering relationships with the next generation, who will one day help lead this festival, is to welcome them in and show them what a special experience MMF is and the impact it has on our community. This initiative also reinforces our mission to bring music to people of all walks of life while supporting education, both of which are incredibly important to us.”
This year, graduating students from Somerset High School, Pulaski County High School, Southwestern High School, Wayne County High School, and Somerset Community College will receive complimentary weekend passes to MMF33.
Participating schools and sponsors include:
- Somerset High School, Pulaski County High School, and Southwestern High School — sponsored by Lake Cumberland Real Estate Professionals
- Wayne County High School — sponsored by South Central Arts Council
- Somerset Community College — sponsored by Somerset Pellet Fuel
Each participating school will provide MMF with a list of current-year graduates. Students may claim their complimentary weekend pass by presenting a valid ID at the festival entrance gate on either Friday or Saturday of festival weekend. Passes are non-transferable and may only be claimed by the graduate.
For more information about sponsoring future graduating classes through MMF’s Next Generation initiative, contact mastermusiciansfestival@gmail.com.
