MUSIC

Experimental music festival FORM Arcosanti returns May 12-14, 2017; applications now open

Kellie Hwang
The Republic | azcentral.com
Hundred Waters performs at FORM Arcosanti last year. The event returns May 12-14.

FORM Arcosanti, the unorthodox music festival held in the tiny experimental community of Arcosanti in Arizona, is returning May 12-14.

The three-day event is in its fourth year, and applications to attend the festival are now open. The experimental set-up has attracted the attention of publications including the New York Times, Billboard and Spin magazine.

This year the event will see some major changes: Instead of the previous free-by-application model, which included an optional donation, the festival now features a $229 experience fee to help improve the overall experience.

Organized by indie band Hundred Waters, festival-goers, performers, volunteers and Arcosanti residents co-mingle and share a collaborative and creative journey that stretches beyond your typical music festival experience. All attendees are required to camp on site, and festival-goers come from across the world, made up of other musicians, community organizers and creative types.

Local Natives performs at FORM Arcosanti in 2016.

Applications will be reviewed on a first come, first served basis, and those that are approved will be sent a link to buy tickets. Applicants are asked for general information, a link to their websites or work pages, and one question: "What inspires you?" There is also a payment plan and a scholarship program this year, and a patron package option that includes a luxury camping experience.

The music line-up has yet to be announced. Last year included Skrillex, Julia Holter, Four Tet, Tortoise, Dan Deacon, Perfume Genius, Hundred Waters, Son Lux and more. Just days before the festival started, indie rock bank Local Natives were announced as surprise guests, and they performed down in the canyon on a colorful stage built by an artist collective. The event will also speakers and other programming that might delve into art, technology and architecture.

Bing & Ruth performs on a grand piano overlooking the canyon at FORM Arcosanti.

Details: May 12-14. Arcosanti, about 65 miles north of Phoenix near Cordes Junction. experienceform.com.