Music
A stage that feels like home, where local musicians are valued, compensated, and celebrated.
ZU Gallery is Cortez’s premier intimate music venue, hosting over 100 live performances each year. From original songwriters and tribute nights to open mics and collaborative showcases, our stage highlights the incredible musical talent of Southwest Colorado—working to keep our creative dollars right here in Montezuma County.
What Makes Our Music Scene Special
EVERY ARTIST GETS PAID | We believe musicians deserve fair compensation for their craft. Whether you’re headlining a tribute night or playing open mic, we invest in local talent and honor the work that goes into every performance. INTIMATE ATMOSPHERE | Our gallery setting seats about 60 comfortably, creating an up-close experience where you can actually connect with the artists. Enjoy live music alongside our curated art collection with a glass of wine or craft beer in hand. 95% FREE TO THE COMMUNITY | Most of our music events are free admission, making live music accessible to everyone. We believe great music should bring people together, not keep them apart.
We work exclusively with two trusted sound professionals: Eric Shinn of Outlit Sound and Abbie Herring of Abboe Sound. Bands performing at the ZU must use one of these vendors or our house P.A. unless otherwise approved. Exceptional sound quality is non-negotiable – our artists and audiences deserve nothing less.
RECURRING EVENTS
Acoustic Jam for Beginners
Songwriting Exchange
Acoustic Open Mic w/ Yves
Subscribe: https://youtube.com/@zugallery
Amplified
Amplified showcases Southwest Colorado’s women musicians in an intimate two-day celebration. Auditions in May lead to a curated September showcase featuring up to 16 artists—all compensated for their performances. Musical talent meets art and wine at ZU Gallery’s signature event celebrating regional voices.
Play Music on the Porch Day
What if for one day everything stopped and we all just listened to music? Cortez joins 75 countries and over 700 cities for Play Music on the Porch Day—always the last Saturday in August. Since 2013, this worldwide event celebrates music’s power to transcend barriers and tie us together. Musicians from across our area will perform at local businesses throughout town. Shop, dine, and experience the soundtrack of community. Sponsored by Cortez Retail Enhancement Association (CREA) and organized by ZU Gallery.
Musicians Market
Musicians Market is on Small Business Saturday (the Saturday after Thanksgiving) 12PM-3PM. Buy, sell, trade, and connect with fellow music lovers! Guitars, keyboards, drums, audio equipment, and more. FREE admission for shoppers. Vendors email meet@zugallery.com to register. Supported by Cortez Retail Enhancement Association.
Listening Room
Sit a bit and just listen. We feature three special, local performances each Fall.
See our past Listening Room performers below and check out our wall of fame at the gallery! We photograph each performer in our portrait studio.
Want to Perform at the ZU?
We’re always looking for talented, local musicians to grace our stage. Whether you’re a solo artist, duo, or full band, we’d love to hear from you. We review submissions on a rolling basis and book 3-4 months in advance.
What we look for in performers:
-Original material or creative interpretations
-Professional presentation and sound
-Artists who connect with audiences
What we are NOT needing:
-Backtracks & music stands
To submit for consideration: Email meet@zugallery.com with:
-Artist bio
-Links to music (streaming, videos, or audio samples)
-Preferred performance format (solo, duo, full band)
-Availability