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There's classic rock and then there are classics that rock. The performances staged by the Mesa Symphony of the Southwest most definitely fall into the latter category. Formerly known as the Mesa Symphony Orchestra, this group of highly skilled musicians have been impressing audiences with live music entertainment since they first debuted back in 1956. The symphony undertakes a full schedule of performances throughout the year that not only spotlight the work of classical composers like Bach and Mozart, but they also present various concerts designed to appeal to some of the area's younger music lovers. Under the direction of maestro Cal Stewart Kellogg, that tradition is set to continue for many years to come.

In a world where art continues to be created with the help of a computer, it is refreshing to see artisans who use basic materials to construct something truly memorable. While many of these individuals use various materials to create their art, the ones who are well versed in the practice of woodcarving are the stars whose work is celebrated every year in Mesa at the Annual Desert Woodcarving Show and Sale. This art festival of sorts features wood sculptures by some of the most talented local, regional and national woodcarvers who all convene for this very popular annual event held every February.

With so much natural beauty surrounding it, a visit to the Arizona Museum of Natural History is a sure bet for a highly educational and entertaining time. Considered one of the best museums in the state, this facility offers lots of dramatically designed and well-presented exhibits. Perhaps the most famous of these is “Dinosaur Mountain” which features several attention-getting devices to tell its prehistoric story. A constantly flowing 50-foot-high indoor waterfall is just another of this museum's many highlights.