Exploring Burlington’s Electronic Music Landscape: A Comprehensive Guide

Vermont’s Under-the-Radar EDM Scene: A Journey Through Beats and Vibes

Given Vermont’s most successful musical exports—guitar slingers like Phish, Grace Potter, and Anäis Mitchell—the state often isn’t perceived as a hotspot for electronic dance music (EDM). However, a long-standing love affair with the pulsing beats, vibrant lights, and collective energy of EDM has woven itself into the local culture, especially in Burlington.

A Legacy of Innovation

Vermont has deep roots in electronic music history, primarily fueled by innovation in synthesizer technology. German engineer Harald Bode brought his designs for early modular synthesizers to Brattleboro in 1954 while working for the Estey Organ Company, influencing iconic creator Robert Moog. This connection to synthesizer innovation is pivotal; Moog’s designs revolutionized electronic music, laying groundwork that local artists continue to build on.

Jon Appleton, another pioneer, contributed to the scene through the invention of the Synclavier in 1973, further solidifying Vermont’s importance in electronic music history. Today, this historical backdrop allows local musicians to infuse their work with a sense of authenticity and legacy.

The Heart of the Scene: Burlington

The Burlington area, in particular, thrives with a rich tapestry of DJs, producers, and electronic music fans. Venue spaces range from intimate basements to open-air fields, creating an inclusive atmosphere for all enthusiasts. Long-standing series like Nexus Artist Management’s Sunday Night Mass foster a community of dedicated followers, continuing to draw crowds for almost three decades.

Sunday Night Mass, a staple since 1998, remains the crown jewel of local EDM events. Each quarter, it draws in seasoned veterans and fresh talent alike to Higher Ground in South Burlington. The show’s founders, Justin Remillard and Chris Pattison, have created a legacy by cultivating a broader appreciation for electronic genres.

The OGs: Sunday Night Mass

Sounds Like: House and Techno

Originally launched at Club Metronome, Sunday Night Mass has emerged as a beloved institution in Burlington. From their early rave days as Champlain College students to the current lineup, Remillard and Pattison have encouraged a deeper understanding and appreciation for the house and techno genres. The success of bands like Dubtribe Sound System—who filled the dance floor years ago—served as a catalyst for others to explore electronic beats.

“New blood is so necessary to a scene’s health,” Remillard expresses, highlighting the importance of younger attendees engaging with EDM. This realization motivates their continuous efforts to adapt and revitalize the event amid changing venues and audience dynamics.

The DIT Crew: Burlington Electronic Department and Groundhog Fest

Sounds Like: Electro and Dance

Zaq Schuster, founder of Roost.World, embodies a fresh approach to Burlington’s music scene. Their mission, more akin to “Do It Together” than the conventional DIY mantra, emphasizes collaboration among local artists, creating a vibrant event circuit.

Groundhog Fest, launched in 2025, is one pivotal endeavor that showcases a mix of local and touring electronic artists. Each year, the festival expands, asserting its presence across multiple venues and gathering enthusiastic crowds, celebrating its depth and breadth within electronic music.

Schuster believes in transparency, guiding potential promoters to find success within the realm of EDM. “If we’re doing our job right, no one can say our stuff is just one thing,” they share, highlighting the genre’s fluid and inclusive nature.

The Next Generation: Kate Kush

Sounds Like: Hyper-pop, Techno, UK Garage

Emerging talents like Kate Kush are reshaping the DJ landscape in Burlington. Bringing together various genres, her performances invite audiences to dance in a safe and welcoming atmosphere. Kush enjoys fostering an environment conducive to self-expression and fun, steering clear of the sometimes intimidating aura found in typical club scenes.

Having started her DJing career in 2023, each performance aims to create a unique space for her audience. “You come to my show to party,” she insists, positioning herself not just as a music provider but as a curator of experience.

The Collaborator: Will Andrews

Sounds Like: Indie Electro-pop

Will Andrews, performing as Willverine, exemplifies the collaborative spirit within Burlington’s EDM circumference. By seamlessly integrating his trumpet skills with electronic sounds, Andrews captivates audiences with innovative styles and spontaneous performances.

His weekly Willverine Wednesdays create an ephemeral, community-focused atmosphere where creativity thrives through spontaneous collaboration. “It’s like a radio station that only exists for two hours,” he describes, emphasizing the uniqueness of each session. Given his history of remixing and working with diverse artists, Andrews has crafted a significant niche in the local music landscape.

The Local Club Scene: Supporting Acts and Venues

Burlington’s electronic scene thrives on a variety of supportive venues, events, and artists that contribute to its rich diversity. Alongside Sunday Night Mass, Groundhog Fest, and various club nights, several community initiatives are actively revitalizing and nurturing the scene not just through parties but also through inclusivity and collaboration.

Popular spots like Monkey House and spaces hosting recurring events from DJ Taka and projects like SPARKOMATIK add more color to the canvas. Pop-up events and themed nights create fertile ground for exploration, where local talent thrives alongside touring DJs and acts.

Spotlight on Talent and Innovation

Whether it’s through DJ sets rooted in the energetic vibes of gay club culture or collaborative experimental performances, Burlington’s electronic dance music scene represents a blend of history, innovation, and, most importantly, community. As the collective continues to grow and evolve, so too will its boundaries, crafting an ever-changing tapestry of sound and experiences that resonate far beyond Vermont’s borders.

The journey of electronic music in this region is far from over; it remains a vital part of the cultural fabric, a revelation waiting to be fully explored.