So much rock in Saugerties

Aug 18

Written By HVNY

Bowie Bassist Gail Ann Dorsey to headline inaugural “Rock the Quarry” Festival at Opus 40

Opus 40 was Harvey Fite’s masterpiece. He spent his final days surveying the land, chiseling away, and moving rocks around to transform the former bluestone quarry in Ulster County into a cascading art park with reflection pools, winding stone pathways and the Monolith as its centerpiece.

Artists have gravitated to the Hudson Valley for centuries from Harvey Fite to Hudson River School painters; even David Bowie was rumored to spend his final days nearby in the secluded mountains west of the Hudson River.

And this weekend, rock will be taken to a whole new level at Opus 40 as Bowie’s longtime bassist Gail Ann Dorsey will headline the inaugural Rock the Quarry Festival on Saturday, August 23, 2025.

“There’s no shortage of incredible artists who call the Hudson Valley home,” says Isabel Soffer, co-founder of The Local and curator of Opus 40’s summer music series. “It’ll be an unforgettable experience, and hopefully an annual event.”

Performances will also include Cindy Cashdollar, Jack Petruzzelli, Simi Stone, Jay Collins, Brian Mitchell, Ginger Winn, and Kendra Mckinley, plus the house band featuring Ben Zwerin, Lee Falco, and Will Bryant.

“It’s a privilege to lead this event,” says the festival’s musical director, Jack Petruzzelli. “I’m excited to see each artist bring their musicianship to one of the most extraordinary and beautiful outdoor stages in the Hudson Valley."

Gates open at 5pm and as guests arrive, they’ll be serenaded by Hudson Valley-based Mexican-American folk band Pulso de Barro—who perform Son Jarocho, the traditional music of Veracruz.

Earlier in the day, between 2-4 pm guests who have a daily admission pass to Opus 40 can enjoy unique pop-up musical experiences throughout the sculpture and among the trails, quarry pools, structures, and other unique spaces. Tickets are $45 adults, $15 youth, and available at Opus40.org/events.

Volunteers wanted

Interested in volunteering for the event? Volunteers can sign up for different time slots to help with parking, check-in, and other needs, and have access to the festival in exchange for their help. To volunteer, follow this link: https://bit.ly/4m4Gy2R

Rock the Quarry

Saturday, August 23, 2025 from 6-9:30 pm
(Gates open with entrance performance at 5pm)
Opus 40, 356 George Sickle Road, Saugerties, NY 12477
Tickets: $45 adult, $15 youth, available at Opus40.org/events or Direct link here.