The most famous of all Santa Fe's attractions is the world-renowned Santa Fe Opera (tel: (505) 986 5900; website: www.santafeopera.org). Situated across rolling, hilly landscape just north of town, with spectacular views of the Sangre de Cristo and Jemez mountains on either side, the dramatic architecture of the amphitheatre is almost a show in itself. The season extends from late June through August and features music, performances, set design and productions of the highest order.

From early July through late August, the Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival (tel: (505) 983 2075; website: www.santafechambermusic.org) brings a bill of recognised performers, groups and ensembles to play traditional chamber music as well as modern, jazz, world music and other pieces. In June, July, August and December, the Santa Fe Desert Chorale (tel: (505) 988 2282; website: www.desertchorale.org) performs at various venues including the Lensic Theater, Loretto Chapel, St Francis Cathedral and the Eldorado Hotel Pavilion.