Of The Trees Hits a Home Run with Camp Alderwild
In a remarkable fusion of music and nature, the recent performance of Of The Trees, led by artist Tyler Coombs, in Telluride’s Town Park has left a lasting impression on attendees. Nestled in a picturesque box canyon typically resonating with traditional acoustic sounds, this event marked a significant deviation into the realm of electronic music, encapsulating what many are calling a transformative experience.
A New Event for a New Era
Initially organized as a couple of standalone concerts by Planet Bluegrass, the event blossomed into a multifaceted weekend experience that included camping, yoga, fly-fishing workshops, and a unique "plant walk." This combination allowed attendees to relish in the natural beauty of Telluride while enjoying diverse sonic landscapes. According to Zach Tucker, Vice President of Planet Bluegrass, the outcome was overwhelming: "It was a resounding success."
With over 5,000 tickets sold and a significant proportion of first-time campers among the crowd, the weekend attracted a younger audience eager for contemporary music in a traditional setting. “This was the most meaningful thing I’ve ever been a part of,” said Coombs on stage, highlighting the festival’s importance not only for him but also for the community.
Community and Connection
The overall sentiment echoed throughout the weekend was one of joy and shared enthusiasm. Responses ranged from “a blast” to “a dream,” indicating that the crowd was not only entertained but also intimately connected to the event’s spirit. Participants like Dalton Gibbs expressed their joy, stating, “Telluride and Of The Trees took my breath away,” reflecting the elevated vibe that filled the air.
The Camping Experience
Camping during the event was characterized by an unusually positive atmosphere. Kathleen Morgan, Camping Supervisor for Planet Bluegrass, noted an “exceedingly high number of first-time urban campers,” who contributed to an environment of kindness and gratitude. This contrasts sharply with some expectations of chaos at large events and showcased the community-building aspect woven throughout the weekend.
Despite minor issues, such as a few medical incidents that were handily managed, the overall experience was strikingly smooth. Bob Rohrer, Medical Tent Supervisor, reported minimal incidents, emphasizing that attendees were friendly and cooperative. “It was really very pleasant,” he noted, highlighting the well-behaved nature of the crowd.
Logistics and Planning
Planning for the event was meticulous. Tucker coordinated with the Telluride Mountain Run (TMR) organizers to minimize disruption, particularly since both events overlapped on the same weekend. He was wary of potential sound interference affecting participants accustomed to a quiet race environment. The strategic scheduling of soundchecks and pop-up concerts demonstrates a commitment to harmony between the event’s energy and the community’s needs.
Feedback and Community Concerns
Despite notable success, some concerns did arise. The Marshall’s office reported several noise complaints, illustrating that not all locals were entirely comfortable with the amplified sounds reverberating through their tranquil surroundings. However, Tucker remained optimistic, stating that they had taken substantial precautions to keep the event poised as an addition rather than an intrusion into community life.
Economic Impact
From a business perspective, the event yielded benefits beyond entertainment. Tucker expressed satisfaction at witnessing people spending money in local businesses while also supporting employees from the area involved in various operational roles. This symbiotic relationship between the festival and the community allowed locals to reap the benefits of heightened foot traffic and revenue.
The Future of Camp Alderwild
As the dust settles, the question remains: what does the future hold for events like Camp Alderwild? Attendees voiced a yearning for more such experiences, bridging electronic music with nature. If the initial success of the event is any indication, this might just signal an emerging trend of blending genres and experiences that appeal to varied audiences.
In summary, Of The Trees delivered not only a captivating musical performance but also a larger symbolic return to the roots of connection—connecting people to nature, to each other, and to the music. The success of Camp Alderwild encapsulates a potential new chapter for summer events in Telluride, intertwining modern culture with the region’s storied musical heritage.
As the community reflects on the weekend, there are many who hope this is just the beginning of a new tradition that welcomes diversity in sound while honoring the foundational spirit of Telluride. Ultimately, the event served as a reminder of the possibilities that arise when modernity meets nature in beautiful unison, setting a high standard for future gatherings in this enchanting locale.
