Bay Area music students spent the afternoon on Saturday, October 18 at The Mountain Winery in Saratoga getting an insider’s look at the business from actor-musician Billy Bob Thorton and his touring team along with entertainment industry professionals.
The hands-on learning opportunity marked the grand finale of “Backstage at The Mountain Winery”, a signature youth education program that connects aspiring musicians with world-class artists and production professionals to explore real-world careers in the music industry.
Approximately 60 students from De Anza College, West Valley College, Santa Clara University, and the University of Silicon Valley took part in workshops on career development, behind-the-scenes operations, and production management before touring the historic Saratoga venue as staff prepared for Thornton’s scheduled evening performance as part of The Mountain Winery’s 2025 concert series.
During the visit Thornton and his tour manager hosted a Q&A with students, offering advice and encouragement from decades as a performing artist. “Don’t go trying to get a hit – do what you feel, and if it becomes a hit, that’s awesome,” Thornton said.
Several students performed during the pre-show in Adele’s Garden and The Luxury Lounge, and participants stayed to watch Billy Bob Thornton & The Boxmasters later that evening.
“We are so grateful to artists like Billy Bob and their incredible professional teams for sharing their knowledge and passion with the next generation,” said Bill Hirschman, one of the owners of The Mountain Winery in a press release on the event. “Bringing local students together with global touring talent—right here in the midst of a live show environment—is an unmatched opportunity. These artists and crews show true generosity of spirit and love for the craft by taking time to mentor tomorrow’s professionals.”
Throughout 2025, the Backstage program hosted a series of immersive experiences with top touring talent, including Grammy-nominated saxophonist Dave Koz and trumpeter Johnny Britt, former musical director for The Temptations.
Now in its third year, Backstage at The Mountain Winery continues the venue’s long tradition of supporting the arts and education in the Bay Area.