History of the Florida Keys Concert Association

In 1969, the Middle Keys Concert Association began bringing classical music concerts to Marathon and said, “Who says you can’t have beautiful music in our island paradise?”

Originally, concerts were held at the Kirk of the Keys Presbyterian Church. At the time, there was no air conditioning and musicians had to compete with bugs, highway noise, planes landing and taking off from the airport across the street, and sirens from the fire trucks and ambulances housed in a nearby station. Despite the venue’s shortcomings, outstanding musical groups such as the Miami String Quartet performed to the delight of hundreds of patrons.

Since then, concerts have been held at San Pablo Catholic Church or Marathon High School, depending on the size of the group. Starting 2020 season all Middle Keys concerts are held in Marathon High School Performing Arts Center. The school has our Steinway Concert Grand piano, which helps to draw world-class performers.

In 2010 the Middle Keys Concert Association welcomed former members of the South Florida Center for the Arts, expanding its classical music presentations to another venue. Islamorada and the Middle Keys Concert Association officially became the Florida Keys Concert Association. With two venues and greater audience attendance, it has become easier to attract nationally and internationally acclaimed performers, with groups such as The Alexander String Quartet, Frederick Moyer, Intersection and outstanding opera soloists having graced our stages.

Many people give generously of their time, talent and treasure and, due to their efforts, the Association continues to bring beautiful music to the Keys at an affordable price.

Join us as we head into our 55th season!

The Florida Keys Concert Association is a 501(c)3 corporation; your generous donation goes directly to bringing beautiful music to beautiful places.