Mark Montijo Concert

On Friday, May 15 at 1p.m., San Diego Music Award nominee Mark Montijo will be at the Coronado Public Library sharing a performance inspired by the breadth of his experiences. He’ll be joined by multi-instrumentalist Lenny Bole, a longtime banjo player and skilled dobro and lap steel musician. As San Diego Troubadour writes, “Montijo’s voice breaks and falters unapologetically, delivering the weight of each moment with raw sincerity… lyrics… meticulously crafted—perfectly hewn… this feels like home.” This event is free to attend thanks to the support of the Friends of the Coronado Public Library and City of Coronado. Seating is first come, first served and doors open at 12:45 p.m. Learn more at cplevents.org.

After decades away from the spotlight, singer-songwriter Mark Montijo has returned with a quiet confidence that reflects both experience and restraint. First emerging in the 1960s club and festival scene, Montijo built his sound alongside a circle of musicians—some of whom would go on to national recognition—before stepping away from music entirely in the late 1970s to pursue business and political work. Encouraged by longtime friends and fans, Montijo recently reentered the studio, releasing a series of albums that have earned critical attention. His debut return, History, drew praise from American Songwriter, while subsequent releases have garnered songwriting awards and San Diego Music Award nominations. His latest work, Apricot Moon, continues that momentum with a nomination for Best Folk or Americana Song.

Joining him is multi-instrumentalist Lenny Bole, a seasoned banjo player whose talents extend to dobro, lap steel, and Weissenborn guitar. A former member of the touring band Montezuma’s Revenge, Bole spent years as a teacher before returning to music in retirement. Today, he performs regularly with local groups, including the bluegrass band Stay Tuned, and remains a sought-after collaborator