Press Releases
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The annual gathering of concertmasters from the nation’s top orchestras, North America’s largest Mozart festival opens with newly discovered work by Mozart
(San Diego, Calif. – Feb. 10, 2025) – The Mainly Mozart All-Star Orchestra Festival returns to San Diego June 18 to June 28, 2025. The annual summer festival is a highlight of the classical music calendar and the country’s largest gathering of concertmasters and principal players from the nation’s top orchestras. Under the baton of Maestro Michael Francis, who returns for his 11th year as Music Director and conductor, the 2025 festival features six, unique performances at two venues, The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center and the UC San Diego Epstein Family Amphitheater. The festival, the largest Mozart celebration in North America, opens with a must-hear performance of Mozart’s newly discovered Serenade in C Major.
“We are thrilled to announce the return of the All-Star Orchestra Festival, the largest Mozart festival in North America,” Nancy Laturno, Founding CEO, Mainly Mozart. “To celebrate, we will open the festival with Mozart’s newly discovered Serenade in C, written when he was just 10-13 years old. The remarkable discovery, made last September in a German library, has captivated Mozart fans worldwide. We’re excited to give San Diegans the opportunity to experience a remarkable chapter of Mozart’s early genius brought to life.”
Beyond Mozart’s work, and the reason for the “mainly” in Mainly Mozart, the orchestra performs pieces from other leading classical composers. This year’s concerts include works by Strauss, Bach, Beethoven, Saint-Saëns, Mendelssohn and Vivaldi, among others.
“This year’s program celebrates the virtuosity of our musicians and presents orchestral works on the grandest scale,” said Maestro Michael Francis. “Audiences will experience some of Baroque’s most virtuosic symphonies through the Brandenberg concertos, marvel in the expressive power of Beethoven’s symphonic masterpieces, and enjoy an intimate chamber experience through the newly discovered Mozart Serenade in C and Ignaz von Seyfried’s arrangement of Mozart’s F Minor Fantasy. The tremendous talent of our orchestral and international soloists takes center stage during Saint-Saëns’s Piano Concerto No. 2, Strauss’s Duet Concertino, A Klezmer Concerto and Beethoven’s Triple Concerto.”
The All-Star Orchestra musicians represent top U.S and Canadian orchestras such as the New York Philharmonic, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Atlanta Symphony, Chicago Symphony, Cleveland Orchestra, Dallas Symphony, Toronto Symphony, San Francisco Symphony and The Philadelphia Orchestra. Last year’s orchestra roster included musicians from 30 top orchestras. The full orchestra roster for 2025 will be released in May.
At The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center in La Jolla, each concert will be preceded by new Mozart-themed pre-concert talks or mini-concerts at 6pm in The JAI, which will be included in the base ticket price. At the UC San Diego Epstein Family Amphitheater, attendees will now be able to bring in their own food and (non-alcoholic) beverages. Guests are also welcome to bring their own picnic spreads, with new grass-seating areas, and picnic music provided by Mainly Mozart Youth Orchestra ensembles throughout the venue.
2025 Soloists
Soloists for the 2025 festival include Clarinetist Boris Allakhverdyan and Bassoonist Whitney Crockett who will perform Richard Strauss’s Duet Concertino on June 20. Pianist Joyce Yang will bring her artistry to Saint-Saëns’s Piano Concerto No. 2 on June 21 and Beethoven’s Triple Concerto on June 28, where she will join Violinist Noah Bendix-Balgley and Cellist Robert DeMaine. Bendix-Balgely will also perform his Klezmer Concerto on June 26.
2025 Mainly Mozart All-Star Festival Program
Opening Night: New Mozart Work: Serenade in C Major; The Four Seasons
Wednesday, June 18, 2025 | The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center | 7:00 PM
This year’s festival opens with a must-hear performance of Mozart’s newly discovered Serenade in C Major. Found in a German library in Sept. 2024, this 250-year-old string trio—nicknamed "Ganz kleine Nachtmusik" or "A Very Little Night Music"—showcases a 10-13 year old Mozart’s remarkable talent and early mastery of musical form. Following this historic gem, the program continues with a melding of Vivaldi’s beloved The Four Seasons, a vivid celebration of nature’s changing moods, filled with virtuosic energy and timeless beauty and Piazzolla’s The Four Seasons of Buenos Aires, an electrifying and tango-infused homage to Vivaldi’s masterpiece that bridges the gap between Baroque elegance and modern passion. Performed together, these works promise an unforgettable musical journey across centuries and continents, with each of the eight solo parts performed by a concertmaster of a major US orchestra, including Philadelphia Orchestra Concertmaster David Kim, National Symphony Concertmaster Nurit-Bar Josef, and San Diego Symphony Concertmaster Jeff Thayer.
Program:
MOZART: Serenade in C Major
VIVALDI: The Four SeasonsPIAZZOLLA: The Four Seasons of Buenos Aires
Beethoven, Mozart, and Strauss
Friday, June 20, 2025 | The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center | 7:00 PM
The concert begins with Mozart’s sparkling Serenade No. 6 (Serenata Notturna), a delightful showcase of elegance and wit, then delves into Richard Strauss’s lyrical and introspective Duet Concertino, featuring clarinetist Boris Allakhverdyan and bassoonist Whitney Crockett. The night crescendos with Beethoven’s Symphony No. 2, a vibrant work brimming with youthful energy and humor, marking one of the composer’s early symphonic triumphs.
Program:
MOZART: Serenade No. 6 K. 239 in D Major (Serenata Notturna)
STRAUSS: Duet Concertino for Clarinet and Bassoon*
BEETHOVEN: Symphony No. 2 op. 36 in D Major
*Soloists: Boris Allakhverdyan (clarinet), Whitney Crockett (bassoon)
Mozart, Elgar, and Saint-Saëns
Saturday, June 21 | UC San Diego Epstein Family Amphitheater | 7:00 PM
Guests may bring food and drink (non-alcoholic) into the venue. Food and drink will be available to purchase inside the venue.
This outdoor concert under the stars at the Epstein Family Amphitheater blends brilliance and intensity, beginning with Elgar’s Introduction and Allegro, a thrilling interplay between string quartet and orchestra. Mozart’s deeply expressive Symphony No. 40 follows, a masterpiece filled with drama and poignancy. Pianist Joyce Yang concludes the program with Saint-Saëns’s Piano Concerto No. 2, a virtuosic tour de force that balances lyrical beauty with dazzling keyboard fireworks.
Program:
ELGAR: Introduction and Allegro
MOZART: Symphony No. 40 K. 550 in G minor
SAINT-SAËNS: Piano Concerto No. 2 op. 22 in G minor*
*Soloist: Joyce Yang (piano)
Baroque Brilliance
Tuesday, June 24 | The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center | 7:00 PM
Celebrate the vitality of the Baroque era with Stravinsky’s Concerto in E-flat (Dumbarton Oaks), a neoclassical homage bursting with charm and precision. The evening continues with Bach’s masterful Brandenburg Concertos Nos. 2 and 5, showcasing the inventiveness and brilliance of Baroque instrumentation. Concluding the night is Mozart’s Haffner Symphony, an exuberant work radiating energy and elegance.
Program:
STRAVINSKY: Concerto in E-flat (Dumbarton Oaks)
BACH: Brandenburg Concerto No. 2 BWV 1047 in F Major
BACH: Brandenburg Concerto No. 5 BWV 1050 in D Major
MOZART: Symphony No. 35 K. 385 in D Major (Haffner Symphony)
Mozart, Mendelssohn, and Klezmer
Thursday, June 26 | The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center | 7:00 PM
The program opens with Mozart’s lively overture to The Abduction from the Seraglio, brimming with Turkish-inspired flair. Composer and violinist Noah Bendix-Balgley brings his unique Klezmer Concerto to life, blending classical virtuosity with the soulful melodies and energetic dances of Jewish folk music. The evening closes with Mendelssohn’s majestic Reformation Symphony, a powerful testament to faith and renewal.
Program:
MOZART: Overture to Die Entführung aus dem Serail K. 384 (The Abduction from the Seraglio)
NOAH BENDIX-BALGLEY: A Klezmer Concerto*
FELIX MENDELSSOHN: Symphony No. 5 op. 107 in D Major (Reformation)
*Soloist: Noah Bendix-Balgley (violin)
Closing Night: Beethoven’s Triple Concerto
Saturday, June 28 | UC San Diego Epstein Family Amphitheater | 7:00 PM
Guests may bring food and drink (non-alcoholic) into the venue. Food and drink will be available to purchase inside the venue.
The festival’s grand finale begins with Mozart’s delightful overture to Così fan tutte, followed by Beethoven’s Triple Concerto, a rare gem that features the interplay of piano, violin, and cello performed by Joyce Yang, Noah Bendix-Balgely, and Robert DeMaine. The festival concludes with Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7, a work of sheer exhilaration and rhythmic drive, often called “the apotheosis of the dance.”
Program:
MOZART: Overture to Così fan tutte K. 588
BEETHOVEN: Triple Concerto op. 56 in C Major*
BEETHOVEN: Symphony No. 7 op. 92 in A Major
*Soloists: Joyce Yang (piano), Noah Bendix-Balgley (violin), Robert DeMaine (cello)
Dates
Wednesday, June 18 | 7:00pm|The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts CenterFriday, June 20 | 7:00pm| The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center
Saturday June 21 |7:00pm | UC San Diego Epstein Family Amphitheater
Tuesday, June 24 | 7:00pm| The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center
Thursday, June 26| 7:00pm| The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center
Saturday, June 28 | 7:00pm| UC San Diego Epstein Family Amphitheater
Venue Addresses
The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center | 7600 Fay Ave, La Jolla, CA 92037
UC San Diego’s Epstein Family Amphitheater | 9480 Innovation Ln, San Diego 92093Tickets:
Festival 6-concert, 4-concert, and 2-concert packages will be available for sale beginning Monday, Feb. 10 at https://www.mainlymozart.org/2025-fest-sales. Individual tickets will be available for sale at a date to be announced.Single tickets for individual concerts at The Conrad range from $65-$149.
Single tickets for individual concerts at Epstein Family Amphitheater range from $25 -$149.
6-Concert Package:
Platinum Tickets for 4: $4150
Platinum Tickets for 2: $2200
Single Tickets
Tier AA $810
Tier A : $685
Tier B: $450
Tier C: $345
General Tier: $315
Epstein Family Amphitheater 2-Concert Package:
Platinum Table for 4: $2,000
Platinum Box for 2: $1,200
Single Tickets
Tier AA: $298
Tier A: $250
Tier B: $170
Tier C: $130
General Tier: $98
Back Lawn: $50
Conrad Prebys 4-Concert Package:
Tier AA: $596
Tier A: $500
Tier B: $340
General Tier: $260
About Mainly Mozart
Since 1988, Mainly Mozart has brought the San Diego community together to experience the finest in orchestral music, intimate concert experiences and extraordinary music education for young people. In that time, the famed Mainly Mozart All-Star Orchestra Festival has made its name as the largest gathering of Concertmasters and Principal Players in the United States, boasting top level players from the world’s greatest orchestras including the New York Philharmonic, Cleveland Orchestra, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Philadelphia Orchestra, Philharmonic and dozens more. Mainly Mozart’s mission is to enrich the lives of today and tomorrow’s passionate music lovers by connecting them to the genius and innovation of Mozart and the Masters, to world-class musicians and music-making, and to each other. For more information, visit www.mainlymozart.org. Keep up with news and announcements on social media: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube and TikTok.
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Experience three intimate “Salon Concerts” with top classical artists and “Meet the Concertmasters” of the acclaimed Mainly Mozart All-Star Orchestra Festival
Mainly Mozart, the San Diego nonprofit behind the internationally acclaimed Mainly Mozart All-Star Orchestra Festival, proudly presents the 2024/2025 season of Club Amadeus, a series of four exclusive events showcasing top-tier classical artists in private, elegant settings. The season opens Nov. 24, 2024, with San Diego Symphony Clarinetist Max Opferkuch.
Each Club Amadeus event will be hosted at a private residence and begin with a champagne reception and light appetizers at 2 p.m., followed by the concert at 3 p.m., and an intimate artist reception at 4 p.m. Club Amadeus membership is required for attendance. Membership is $1,000 per person and is fully tax-deductible. Membership information is available at www.mainlymozart.org/club-amadeus.
2024/2025 Club Amadeus Events
Sunday, Nov. 24, 2024 at 2 p.m. – Club Amadeus Salon Concert
Wind Trio featuring Max Opferkuch, San Diego Symphony Clarinetist
San Diego native Max Opferkuch is a rising clarinetist renowned for his dynamic artistry and expressive performances. Appointed Second Clarinet of the San Diego Symphony in 2022, Opferkuch has also performed with esteemed ensembles such as The Cleveland Orchestra, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Pacific Symphony, and the Tanglewood Music Center Orchestra. His chamber music collaborations are equally distinguished, including performances with the Colburn Chamber Music Society, Music from Angel Fire, Jacaranda Music, and alongside musicians from the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra and National Symphony Orchestra as well as the Mainly Mozart All-Star Orchestra Festival.
Recipient of the Grand Prize at the 2019 Pasadena Showcase House Instrumental Competition and winner of the USC Thornton Concerto Competition, Opferkuch has appeared as a soloist with the Thornton Symphony and was featured as a Young Artist in Residence on Performance Today. A graduate of USC’s Thornton School of Music and an alumnus of the Tanglewood Music Center, Opferkuch continues his advanced studies under Yehuda Gilad at the Colburn Conservatory of Music.
Sunday, April 27, 2025 at 2 p.m. – Club Amadeus Salon Concert
Principal Double Bassist Nate Farrington, Los Angeles Opera
Nathan Farrington is a distinguished double bassist whose artistry has captivated audiences around the world. A graduate of the Curtis Institute of Music, Farrington trained under the Philadelphia Orchestra's Principal Bassist, Hal Robinson, and legendary soloist Edgar Meyer. His impressive solo career includes performances with the Philadelphia Orchestra, Columbus Symphony, Aspen Music Festival Orchestra, and Minnesota Sinfonia.
An ardent chamber musician, Farrington is a seasoned participant at the prestigious Marlboro Music Festival and regularly performs with renowned ensembles like the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Philadelphia Orchestra, Baltimore Symphony, and East Coast Chamber Orchestra. Recognized with second place in the International Society of Bassists Solo Competition and winner of the Aspen Music Festival’s Low Strings Concerto Competition, Farrington has also charmed audiences on NPR's A Prairie Home Companion through his collaborations with Garrison Keillor.
Wednesday, June 25, 2025 at 1 p.m. – Meet the Concertmasters
Get to know the concertmasters of the biggest event in classical music, the critically acclaimed Mainly Mozart All-Star Orchestra Festival, the annual gathering of the top concertmasters and principal players in North America. Featuring musicians from orchestras including the New York Philharmonic, Chicago Symphony, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Cleveland Orchestra, Atlanta Symphony, Philadelphia Orchestra and more, Mainly Mozart’s All-Star Orchestra is the only orchestra of its kind in the country. The annual event returns to San Diego June 18-28, 2025. Club Amadeus members have the unique opportunity to meet the concertmasters for this year’s orchestra in person.
Sunday, Aug. 24, 2025 at 2 p.m. – Club Amadeus Salon ConcertLA Phil Principal Clarinetist Boris Allakhverdyan and Pianist Alin Allakhverdyan
Boris Allakhverdyan, appointed Principal Clarinet of the Los Angeles Philharmonic in 2016, is celebrated for his “inspired” and “gorgeous” performances, as described by The New York Times, while the Los Angeles Times lauds his “energetic, vibrant solos.” Previously Principal Clarinet of the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra and Associate Principal of the Kansas City Symphony, Allakhverdyan is also a founding member of the Prima Trio, the Grand Prize and Gold Medal recipient at the esteemed 2007 Fischoff National Chamber Music Competition.
A sought-after soloist, Allakhverdyan has appeared with symphonies across the U.S. and internationally, from Canada to South Korea, Dubai to Armenia. His festival performances span the Lucerne Festival Academy in Switzerland, Germany’s Mecklenburg-Vorpommen Festival, Italy’s Emilia Romagna Festival, and repeated appearances at the Mainly Mozart All-Star Orchestra Festival. A passionate chamber musician, Allakhverdyan has graced prestigious venues such as Carnegie Hall with the MET Chamber Ensemble, the Chicago Chamber Music Society, and festivals from La Jolla to Shenzhen.
Boris will perform with his wife Alin Allakhverdyan, an acclaimed pianist and prize-winning artist who began her musical journey at just four years old in Southern California. Currently serving as Music Director of the American Contemporary Gallery, she is celebrated for her collaborations with distinguished musicians and dancers across both contemporary and classical genres. Her nuanced artistry and versatility have made her a sought-after partner in innovative musical projects, enhancing each performance with depth and imagination.
About Mainly Mozart
Since 1988, Mainly Mozart has brought the San Diego community together to experience the finest in orchestral music, intimate concert experiences and extraordinary music education for young people. In that time, the famed Mainly Mozart All-Star Orchestra Festival has made its name as the largest gathering of Concertmasters and Principal Players in the United States, boasting top level players from the world's greatest orchestras including the New York Philharmonic, Cleveland Orchestra, LA Phil, Philadelphia Orchestra and dozens more. For more information, visit www.mainlymozart.org. Keep up with news and announcements on social media: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube and TikTok.
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October 13, 2024
New concert series pairs top sommeliers with the country's greatest concertmasters for a unique "taste what you hear" experience
Mainly Mozart – the San Diego nonprofit behind the highly acclaimed, annual Mainly Mozart All-Star Orchestra Festival – has announced an exciting new chamber music series, Sommelier Series: The Concertmasters, launching Fall 2024. Sponsored by Patricia & Christopher Weil, three intimate concerts, Nov. 17, Jan 11, and Feb 8, will take place at Fairbanks Ranch Country Club and feature concertmasters from the Philadelphia Orchestra, Dallas Symphony and Los Angeles Philharmonic, paired with top sommeliers who have chosen wines inspired by each concert's program. Tickets are on sale now for all three concerts in the series at www.mainlymozart.com/wine.
Chef Claudia Sandoval, “MasterChef” winner and judge, who is also the Culinary Director and Executive Producer for Mainly Mozart’s “Culinary Concerto” Gala, is coordinating the sommeliers and wineries for the new series. Each concert will begin with an hour-long wine and appetizer reception at 6pm followed by a discussion with the sommelier, hosted by Chef Sandoval, preceding an intermission-free concert at 7pm. Wine will be poured between musical selections, and sommeliers and musicians will illustrate the connection of the wine to the pieces being performed.
November 16: Philadelphia Orchestra Concertmaster David Kim and Sommelier Rafael Peterson
Sommelier Series: The Concertmasters hosts its first event November 16 with Philadelphia Orchestra Concertmaster David Kim, performing with his orchestral colleagues Burchard Chang, viola and Priscilla Lee, cello. The concert will feature works by Beethoven, Handel and Dohnanyi. The wines for the concert will be curated by Sommelier Rafael Peterson of H Mercer Wine and Spirits, former Dining Room Captain at Addison and Wine Director of Born and Raised.
rogram:
E. Dohnanyi: Serenade for String Trio
Handel/Halvorsen: Passacaglia
Beethoven: String Trio in C minor No. 3
January 11: Dallas Symphony Concertmaster Alexander Kerr and Co-Concertmaster Nathan Olson with Sommelier Gabriela Gaeta-Ninet
The series continues January 11 with Dallas Symphony Concertmaster Alexander Kerr joined by Dallas Symphony Co-concertmaster Nathan Olson and Pianist Anton Nel. Mr. Nel, a Naumburg International Piano Competition winner and acclaimed Beethoven interpreter, was Mainly Mozart's first-ever featured soloist during its 1989 inaugural June festival. The wines for the evening will be curated by Sommelier Gabriela Gaeta-Ninet, the first person from Mexico to achieve the title of "French Wine Scholar with Highest Honors."
Program:
Brahms: Violin Sonata No. 3 in D minor
Mozart: Violin Sonata in B-flat major
Moszkowski: Suite for Two Violins and Piano in G Minor
February 8: Los Angeles Philharmonic Concertmaster Martin Chalifour with Wines Curated by Marino Monferrato
The third and final concert in the series is February 8 and will showcase Los Angeles Philharmonic Concertmaster and Mainly Mozart favorite Martin Chalifour, accompanied by Pianist Steven Vanhauwaert, in a program including works by Dvorak, Brahms and Ravel. The wines for the evening will be curated by Marino Monferrato - the official Maître D'hôtel of Chef Gordon Ramsay's hit Fox show "Hell's Kitchen."
Program:
Bach: Sonata in B flat major
Dvorak: Romantic Pieces op. 75
Lalo: Symphonie espagnole op. 21
Ravel: Pavane pour une infante défunte (arr. Kochanski)
Dvorak: Slavonic Dance in E minor No. 2
Brahms: Hungarian Dance in D minor No. 2
Seating will be at tables-of-four with a limited number of individual seats available, with tickets ranging from $125 to $500 per concert. The event will take place at the Fairbanks Ranch Country Club, 15150 San Dieguito Road, Rancho Santa Fe.
"We used the inspiration of March's Culinary Concerto gala which paired world-class music with fine wine and fare, in creating the Sommelier Series," said Nancy Laturno, Mainly Mozart co-founder and CEO. "There's such a rich history and depth of feeling that exists with classical music. It is a uniquely emotive art form and we believe that this will be a sensory experience that you'll never forget."
Tickets:
3-Concert Subscriptions for table-of-four:
Platinum Seating - $6,000
Gold Seating - $3,000
3-Concert Subscriptions - IndividualPlatinum Seating - $1,500/person
Gold Seating - $750/person
General Seating - $375/person
Single Concert - Table-of-Four
Platinum Seating - $2,000
Gold Seating - $1,000
Single Concert - Individual
Platinum Seating - $500
Gold Seating - $250
General Seating - $125
About Mainly MozartSince 1988, Mainly Mozart has brought the San Diego community together to experience the finest in orchestral music, intimate concert experiences and extraordinary music education for young people. In that time, the famed Mainly Mozart All-Star Orchestra Festival has made its name as the largest gathering of Concertmasters and Principal Players in the United States, boasting top level players from the world's greatest orchestras including the New York Philharmonic, Cleveland Orchestra, LA Phil, Philadelphia Orchestra and dozens more. For more information, visit www.mainlymozart.org. Keep up with news and announcements on social media: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube and TikTok.
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Concertmasters and principal musicians from 30 top North American orchestras come together for spectacular six-concert series at Epstein Family Amphitheater and The Conrad
Mainly Mozart is excited to announce the full orchestra roster the Mainly Mozart All-Star Orchestra Festival, the country’s largest gathering of concertmasters and principal players from the nation’s top orchestras, who come together each summer in San Diego for a week of remarkable performances of classical music’s finest scores. Tickets available now at www.mainlymozart.org/allstar.
The orchestra, led by Maestro Michael Francis, will perform six, unique concerts at two venues: the new Epstein Family Amphitheater and The Conrad, both located in La Jolla.
This year’s orchestra roster is a group of incredible concertmasters and principal players from 30 orchestras: Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Canadian Opera Company Orchestra, Cincinnati Symphony, The Cleveland Orchestra, Dallas Symphony Orchestra, Delaware Symphony, Detroit Symphony Orchestra, The Florida Orchestra, Fort Wayne Philharmonic, Hollywood Bowl Orchestra, Houston Symphony, Indianapolis Symphony, Kansas City Symphony, LA Opera Orchestra, LA Phil, Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra, Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, Naples Philharmonic, National Symphony Orchestra, Oregon Symphony, Pacific Symphony, The Philadelphia Orchestra, Royal Oaks Chamber Orchestra (ROCO), San Diego Symphony, San Francisco Symphony, Santa Barbara Symphony, Tucson Symphony Orchestra, Utah Symphony and Vancouver Symphony Orchestra.
Mainly Mozart All-Star Orchestra Festival 2024 Orchestra Roster
ViolinNurit Bar-Josef: National Symphony Orchestra, Concertmaster
Marie Berard: Canadian Opera Company Orchestra, Concertmaster
Robyn Bollinger, Detroit Symphony Orchestra, Concertmaster
Justin Bruns: Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Associate Concertmaster
Roberto Cani: LA Opera Orchestra, Concertmaster
Zachary DePue: Naples Philharmonic, Concertmaster
Jun Iwasaki: Kansas City Symphony, Concertmaster
Dennis Kim: Pacific Symphony, Concertmaster
Sarah Kwak: Oregon Symphony, Concertmaster
Kevin Lin: Indianapolis Symphony, Concertmaster
Missy Lukin: San Diego Symphony
Jeffrey Multer: The Florida Orchestra, Concertmaster
Vali Phillips: Oregon Symphony
Wes Precourt: San Diego Symphony, Associate Concertmaster
Lauren Roth: Tucson Symphony Orchestra, Concertmaster
Robert Schumitzky: Pacific Symphony
Michael Seiss: Pacific Symphony
Yoomin Seo: Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, Concertmaster
Wenyi Shih: San Francisco Ballet Orchestra
Hanah Stuart: San Diego Symphony
Jeff Thayer: San Diego Symphony, Concertmaster
Nicholas Wright: Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, Concertmaster
Jisun Yang: San Diego Symphony, Assistant Concertmaster
Natalie Yu: The Florida Orchestra
ViolaJenny Anschel
Brant Bayless: Utah Symphony, Principal
Joan DerHovsepian: Houston Symphony, Principal
Aloysia Friedmann: Royal Oaks Chamber Orchestra (ROCO), Concertmaster
Erik Rynearson: Hollywood Bowl Orchestra, Principal
Zhenwei Shi: Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Principal
Cello
Robert deMaine: LA Phil, Principal
Karen Freer: Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Acting Assistant Principal
Barry Gold: LA Phil
Dahae Kim: LA Phil, Assistant Principal
Anne Richardson: San Francisco Symphony, Associate Principal
Eric Sung: San Francisco Ballet Orchestra, Principal
Bass
Scott Pingel: San Francisco Symphony, Principal
Michael Franz: The Philadelphia Orchestra
Kevin Gobetz: San Diego Symphony
Jufang Liu: Indianapolis Symphony, Principal
Susan Wulff: San Diego Symphony, Associate Principal
Flute
Clay Ellerbroek: The Florida Orchestra, Principal
Jeffrey Khaner: The Philadelphia Orchestra, Principal
Piccolo
Rose Lombardo: San Diego Symphony, Principal
Sandy Hughes: Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra
Oboe
Erin Hannigan: Dallas Symphony Orchestra, Principal
Dwight Parry: Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, Principal
Orion Rapp: Fort Wayne Philharmonic, Principal
Frank Rosenwein: The Cleveland Orchestra, Principal
Clarinet
Boris Allakhverdyan: LA Phil, Principal
Christopher Pell: Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, Principal
Frank Renk: San Diego Symphony
Basset Horn
Josh Ranz: Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra, Principal
Max Opferkuch: San Diego Symphony
Bassoon
Whitney Crockett: LA Phil, Principal
Erik Holtje: Delaware Symphony, Principal
French Horn
David Cooper: LA Phil, Assoc. Principal
Haley Hoops: Dallas Symphony Orchestra
Elizabeth Linares: LA Phil
Kaylet Torrez: Pacific Symphony, Assistant Principal
Trumpet
Anthony Limoncelli: Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, Principal
Ansel Norris: The Florida Orchestra, Asst. Principal
Trombone
Kyle Covington: San Diego Symphony, Principal
John Lofton: LA Phil
Steve Peterson: Fort Worth Symphony, Acting Principal
Joel Vaisse: The Florida Orchestra, Principal
TubaMason Soria: LA Phil, Principal
PercussionGregory Cohen: San Diego Symphony, Principal
Jauvon Gilliam: National Symphony, Principal
Eduardo Meneses: Santa Barbara Symphony, Principal
David Riccobono: LA Phil, Assistant Principal, Timpani
Wesley Sumpter: LA Phil
Harpsichord
Allison Leudecke
Organ
Nicholas Halbert
Harp
Julie Phillips
Soloists
The opening concert June 20 features internationally acclaimed pianist Georgi Li performing Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 21. The June 22 concert features the San Diego Master Chorale joined by soloists Erica Petrocelli from the LA Opera and acclaimed opera singer Babatunde Akinboboye. The June 27 performance features Robert DeMaine, principal cellist of the LA Phil, on Concerto for Cello and Wind Orchestra by Gulda. The closing night performance on June 29 features one of America’s foremost violinists, Stefan Jackiw.
When:
Thursday, June 20 | 7:30pm - 9pm| UC San Diego Epstein Family AmphitheaterSaturday, June 22 | 7:30pm - 9pm| UC San Diego Epstein Family Amphitheater
Sunday, June 23 | 3:00pm - 4:00pm | The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center
Tuesday, June 25 | 7:30pm - 9pm| The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center
Thursday, June 27| 7:30pm - 9pm| UC San Diego Epstein Family Amphitheater
Saturday, June 29 | 7:30pm - 9pm| UC San Diego Epstein Family Amphitheater
Where:
June 23 and 25: The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center | 7600 Fay Ave, La Jolla, CA 92037
June 20, 22, 27 and 29: UC San Diego’s Epstein Family Amphitheater | 9500 Gilman Dr, San Diego, CA 92093Tickets:
Tickets may be purchased online at www.mainlymozart.org/allstar or by calling the box office at (619) 955-8273 Monday - Friday from 8am to 5pm. -
Free community concert May 5 at UC San Diego’s Epstein Family Amphitheater aims to promote ocean conservation and importance of Cali-Baja Coast
Today, Mainly Mozart — organizer of the renowned Mainly Mozart All-Star Orchestra Festival – and Tijuana community-based organization Promotora De Las Bellas Artes announced a bi-national project to raise awareness for ocean conservation and the care and importance of our shared Cali-Baja Coast. Part of this program is a free community concert, “The Sea Unites Us,” May 5 at 5pm at the UC San Diego Epstein Family Amphitheater. The concert is sponsored by The San Diego Foundation, The International Community Foundation, Resilient Cities Catalyst and San Diego Regional Climate Collaborative.
The concert will feature new music from renowned Mexico City singer, conductor and composer Jorge Cózatl whose piece was inspired by research provided by the Walter Munk Foundation for the Oceans (WMFO) as well as the environmental learning and experiences of the students of Promotora de las Bellas Artes choir. In addition, the song's lyrics are co-authored by Tijuana rapper “Danger.”
Cózatl’s composition, along with other newly composed works inspired by ocean conservation, will be performed by the Mainly Mozart Youth Orchestra, Promotora de las Bellas Artes “Sterlings” Children’s Choir, San Diego Children’s Choir and the San Diego State University Choir.
“This free community concert with our wonderful long-term partners at Promotora De Las Bellas Artes in Tijuana will present new music from composers, all inspired by ocean conservation. We encourage our friends from both sides of the border to bring their families to this wonderful, free outdoor concert featuring our own Mainly Mozart Youth Orchestra who will accompany the San Diego Children’s Choir, the SDSU Choir and of course the Promotora de las Bellas Artes Children’s Choir,” said Mainly Mozart CEO Nancy Laturno. “I want to thank The San Diego Foundation for the grant it awarded Mainly Mozart to help build awareness and support for their bi-coastal ocean conservation initiative. We hope this concert inspires everyone to see how they can take steps to conserve our shared Cali-Baja coast and the beautiful ocean that we love so much.”
Alida Guajardo, President and Founder of Promotora de las Bellas Artes, added, "We are very proud that our choir will cross to San Diego for the first time to collaborate with the Mainly Mozart Youth Orchestra and other talented local choirs. This exciting concert transcends borders, bringing a message of love and unity and emphasizing the sea as an element that unites both cities. This project proves that cultural connection goes beyond borders."
This program is supported by community partners, including UC San Diego’s Epstein Family Amphitheater, Kilometro Uno, Walter Munk Foundation for the Oceans, USC Thornton School of Music, SDSU and the San Diego Children’s Choir. It’s also part of the calendar of World Design Capital San Diego Tijuana 2024, which aims to showcase our region as a global hub for design, innovation, arts, and culture.
When: Sunday, May 5, 2024
Time: 5pm
Where: UC San Diego Epstein Family Amphitheater |
9480 Innovation Ln, La Jolla, CA 92093
Cost: Free
Tickets: Tickets are first come, first serve. Visit mainlymozart.org to reserve your tickets.
About Mainly Mozart
For more than 30 years, Mainly Mozart has taken its programs south of the border as “Mozart Binacional.” In Tijuana and other municipalities of Baja California, Mainly Mozart has a close partnership with Promotora de las Bellas Artes and has collaborated on cross-border music camps and master classes for Mexican student musicians, art competitions for youth, and in-school music assemblies for thousands of children. For the 2023/2024 Season, Mainly Mozart will co-present and collaborate multiple concerts and events with our binational partners. For more information visit www.mainlymozart.org.
About Promotora de las Bellas Artes
Promotora de las Bellas Artes’ (PBA) actions and programs are designed for children and youth who live in priority areas of attention in Tijuana. Our artistic programs promote resilience, creativity and self-confidence. At PBA we work to provide our youth the opportunity to participate in music through our choral programs, while also helping to build socio-emotional skills such as empathy, collective work and civic values. For more information visit www.promotoradelasbellasartes.org.
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Six unique performances take place at The Conrad in La Jolla and the Epstein Family Amphitheater at UC San Diego
The biggest event in classical music returns to San Diego June 20-29. The Mainly Mozart All-Star Orchestra Festival, led by Maestro Michael Francis, is the largest gathering of concertmasters and principal players from the nation’s top orchestras, who come together in San Diego every summer to form one remarkable orchestra for a limited six-concert series. This year, the orchestra will return to two La Jolla venues where it first held performances in 2023: the UC San Diego Epstein Family Amphitheater and The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center.
“We are delighted to return to these two outstanding venues,” said Michael Francis, music director and conductor of the All-Star Orchestra. “Last year's concerts at UC San Diego’s Epstein Family Amphitheater were a real highlight for all of us and The Conrad has truly earned its reputation as one of the country’s great chamber music halls.”
Featuring musicians from top U.S. orchestras including the New York Philharmonic, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Chicago Symphony, Cleveland Orchestra, Philadelphia Orchestra and more, Mainly Mozart’s All-Star Orchestra is the only orchestra of its kind in the country.
The 2024 Mainly Mozart All-Star Orchestra Festival Program
Mozart Piano Concerto 21 & Beethoven 6
Thursday, June 20, 2024 | 7:30PM
UCSD Amphitheatre (Outdoor)MOZART: Piano Concerto No. 21
BEETHOVEN: Symphony No. 6Soloist: George Li, piano
Mozart Symphony 31
Saturday, June 22, 2024 | 7:30PM
UCSD Amphitheatre (Outdoor)MOZART: Symphony No. 31
SAINT-SAËNS: Danse Macabre
GABRIEL FAURÉ: Fauré RequiemFeaturing: San Diego Master Chorale | Erica Petrocelli, soprano
Gran Partita Matinee
Sunday, June 23, 2024 | 3:00PM
The Conrad, La Jolla (Indoor)MOZART: Serenade No. 10 “Gran Partita”
Tchaikovsky's SerenadeTuesday, June 25, 2024 | 7:30PM
The Conrad, La Jolla (Indoor)BRITTEN: Variations on a Theme of Frank Bridge, Op. 10
TCHAIKOVSKY: Serenade, Op. 48
Mozart & GuldaThursday, June 27, 2024 | 7:30PM
UCSD Amphitheatre (Outdoor)MOZART: Symphony No. 38 in D Major
GULDA: Concerto for Cello and Wind OrchestraSoloist: Robert DeMaine, cello
Closing Night
Saturday, June 29, 2024 | 7:30PM
UCSD Amphitheatre (Outdoor)
BRUCH: Scottish Fantasy
MENDELSSOHN: Symphony No. 3Soloist: Stefan Jackiw, violin
When:
Thursday, June 20 | 7:30pm - 9pm| UC San Diego Epstein Family AmphitheaterSaturday, June 22 | 7:30pm - 9pm| UC San Diego Epstein Family Amphitheater
Sunday, June 23 | 3:00pm - 4:00pm | The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center
Tuesday, June 25 | 7:30pm - 9pm| The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center
Thursday, June 27| 7:30pm - 9pm| UC San Diego Epstein Family Amphitheater
Saturday, June 29 | 7:30pm - 9pm| UC San Diego Epstein Family Amphitheater
Where:
June 23 and 25: The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center | 7600 Fay Ave, La Jolla, CA 92037
June 20, 22, 27 and 29: UC San Diego’s Epstein Family Amphitheater | 9500 Gilman Dr, San Diego, CA 92093Tickets:
Individual tickets as well as Festival 6-concert, 4-concert, 3-concert and 2-concert packages on sale at https://www.mainlymozart.org/2024-fest-sales.Single tickets: $25 – $149
6-Concert Package: $216 – $805
Epstein 4-Concert Package: $144 – $536
Conrad 2-Concert Package: $72 – $268
3-Concert Weekend Package: $108 – $402
About Mainly Mozart
Since 1988, Mainly Mozart has brought the San Diego community together to experience the finest in orchestral music, intimate concert experiences and extraordinary music education for young people. In that time, the famed Mainly Mozart All-Star Orchestra Festival has made its name as the largest gathering of Concertmasters and Principal Players in the United States, boasting top level players from the world’s greatest orchestras including the New York Philharmonic, Cleveland Orchestra, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Philadelphia Orchestra, Philharmonic and dozens more. Mainly Mozart’s mission is to enrich the lives of today and tomorrow’s passionate music lovers by connecting them to the genius and innovation of Mozart and the Masters, to world-class musicians and music-making, and to each other. For more information, visit www.mainlymozart.org. Keep up with news and announcements on social media: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube and TikTok.
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2024 All-Star Orchestra Festival Photos
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June 20 Photos | Ken Jacques Photography
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June 20 Photos | J. Kat Photography
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June 22 Photos | Ken Jacques Photography
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June 23 Photos | Ken Jacques Photography
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June 23 Photos | J. Kat Photography
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June 25 Photos | Ken Jacques Photography
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June 25 Photos | J. Kat Photography
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June 27 Photos | Ken Jacques Photography
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June 29 Photos | Ken Jacques Photography
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June 29 Photos | J. Kat Photography
2023
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Donor celebration to feature top classical and crossover musicians, including 2009 Eurovision Winner Alexander Rybak, Jazz Saxophonist Grace Kelly, Cellist SUUVI and LA Opera Orchestra’s Nathan Farrington
Mainly Mozart – organizer of the renowned Mainly Mozart All-Star Orchestra Festival – announces this year’s musical guests for its Fall blowout party. This year’s theme is “The Mosaic,” and will be held Friday, Nov. 3 from 6:30 p.m - 11 p.m. at a private residence in Rancho Santa Fe. Sponsored by Vosalus Ventures, the annual donor celebration will feature mainstage and roaming pop-up performances by top classical and crossover musicians, art exhibitions and dance performances from Mainly Mozart partners, gourmet bites from top local restaurants, tequila and whiskey tastings, craft cocktails and other surprises.
This year’s performance lineup features top classical and crossover musicians, including the 2009 Eurovision Winner, violinist and vocalist Alexander Rybak; Jazz saxophonist, vocalist and former member of the house band for “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” Grace Kelly; World-renowned cellist SUUVI who recently toured as the solo cellist in Hans Zimmer’s “World of Hans Zimmer;” and the Los Angeles Opera Orchestra’s Principal Bass Nathan Farrington. The feature performers will be joined by other pop-up performances from local artists and dancers, providing attendees with a stimulating and imaginative “mosaic” experience.
Attendance is open to anyone at the $500 giving level and above, including new donors. For more information visit www.mainlymozart.org/mosaic.
“We have incredible supporters who have made the Mainly Mozart All-Star Orchestra possible over the last 35 years,” said Mainly Mozart CEO Nancy Laturno. “The Mosaic will be a fun opportunity to celebrate with our donors and treat them to an evening of music, as well as food by top San Diego chefs, cocktail tastings and surprise pop-up performances from musicians, artists and dancers. We are thrilled to have had 63% new attendees at this year’s All-Star Orchestra festival, with many of them younger music lovers. So this year, we’re inviting anyone who donates at the $500 level and above, to join us on Friday, Nov. 3. It’s going to be a spectacular event and we look forward to seeing our longtime friends as well as new faces!”
MUSICAL GUESTS:
Alexander Rybak, Violin/Vocals
Ryback is the youngest male solo winner of the EuroVision contest. He went on to the 54th Eurovision Song Contest in Moscow in May 2009 and won with a landslide victory. His winning song “Fairytale” has been viewed over 100 million times on YouTube. “Fairytale” became a major hit in Europe and was #1 on most European iTunes charts the following week. It also reached top 3 on the European chart, #1 in Belgium, Denmark, Greece, Iceland, Norway, Sweden and Russia and #2 in Ireland, Finland and the Netherlands.
Grace Kelly, Saxophone/Vocals
Kelly has rocked the jazz world with a resume that includes performing at the Hollywood Bowl as well as being part of the house band for “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” – all before reaching her mid-20s. As of October 2022 she is the youngest member of the Board of Trustees of Berklee College of Music. Kelly’s early career featured performances at Barack Obama’s 2009 inauguration at age 16 and at age 14 she was a soloist with the Boston Pops playing an original composition arranged for the legendary orchestra.
SUUVI, Cello/Electric Cello
SUUVI’s performances and work are acclaimed for their expressivity and disruptive, exploratory spirit. She has played at Carnegie Hall, La Fondation Louis Vuitton, The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA NY), and many other renowned concert halls worldwide. As a speaker, writer and artist, she has created content, performed, and hosted broadcasts for Amazon Prime, Twitch, Live Nation and many more. She recently toured as the solo cellist in Hans Zimmer’s “World of Hans Zimmer.”
Nate Farrington, Double Bass
Farrington currently serves as Principal Bass of the Los Angeles Opera Orchestra and performs often with the Mainly Mozart All-Star Orchestra. He has played in the bass sections of many of the world's finest orchestras including Philadelphia, New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Cincinnati and Baltimore.
About Mainly Mozart
Since 1988, Mainly Mozart has brought the San Diego community together to experience the finest in orchestral music, intimate concert experiences and extraordinary music education for young people. In that time, the famed Mainly Mozart All-Star Orchestra Festival has made its name as the largest gathering of Concertmasters and Principal Players in the United States, boasting top level players from the world’s greatest orchestras including the New York Philharmonic, Cleveland Orchestra, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Philadelphia Orchestra, Atlanta Symphony and dozens more. Mainly Mozart’s mission is to enrich the lives of today and tomorrow’s passionate music lovers by connecting them to the genius and innovation of Mozart and the Masters, to world-class musicians and music-making, and to each other. For more information, visit www.mainlymozart.org. Keep up with news and announcements on social media: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube and TikTok.
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Three nights celebrating San Diego innovation and “genius in the spirit of Mozart” with world premiere performances of new music and a special evening celebrating 2023 San Diego Genius Honoree Dr. David Brenner
Mainly Mozart – organizer of the renowned Mainly Mozart All-Star Orchestra Festival -- announces dates and programming for its 2023 “Genius Week.” Hosted at The Conrad in La Jolla, this year’s celebration of innovation and “genius in the spirit of Mozart within San Diego” will take place Nov. 14, 17 and 18. World premiere performances Nov. 14 and 18 are part of the inaugural California Festival, a two-week celebration of new music with 95 participating arts organizations across the state.
Nov. 14 features a world-premier piano quartet composed by 17-year-old Mainly Mozart Youth Orchestra trombonist Edric Saphire and performed by members from the San Diego Symphony and renowned pianist Anne-Marie McDermott. Night two of Genius Week is a celebration of 2023 San Diego Genius Honoree Dr. David Brenner, president/CEO of Sanford Burnham Prebys. Night three features the Mainly Mozart-commissioned world premiere of “Tapestry” by acclaimed composer Clarice Assad.
Tickets for the Wednesday and Saturday concerts will be available for purchase at www.mainlymozart.org beginning August 28, 2023. The San Diego Genius Night Celebration and the Saturday post-concert after party are available exclusively to Genius Week Patrons.
2023 Genius Week Program
Tuesday, Nov. 14 | 7PM: Piano Quartet/Edric Saphire World Premiere
An intimate evening of chamber music with works by Mozart and the world premiere of an original work by Mainly Mozart Youth Orchestra member Edric Saphire, performed by internationally renowned pianist Anne-Marie McDermott, San Diego Symphony (SDSO) concertmaster Jeff Thayer, SDSO principal viola Chi-Yuan Chen and SDSO principal cello Yao Zhao.
Friday, Nov 17 | 7pm: San Diego Genius Award Dinner
Private dinner honoring the 2023 San Diego Genius Award winner, Dr. David Brenner (President/CEO Sanford Burnham Prebys) with a performance by vocalist Clarice Assad and pianist Anne-Marie McDermott in the JAI at The Conrad.
Saturday, Nov. 18, 2023 | 6PM: Mainly Mozart Commissions World Premiere: Tapestry
From the mind of acclaimed composer Clarice Assad comes TAPESTRY, an amalgamation of the ideas of 50 female musicians and composers from across the globe, built as a celebration of women. Performed with pianist Anne-Marie McDermott and more.
Program:
Piano Trio - Ellen Zwillich
World Premiere of “Tapestry” for Piano Quintet - Clarice Assad
Piano Quintet - Amy BeachPost-Concert dinner with the artists for Genius Week Patrons
About Mainly Mozart
Since 1988, Mainly Mozart has brought the San Diego community together to experience the finest in orchestral music, intimate concert experiences and extraordinary music education for young people. In that time, the famed Mainly Mozart All-Star Orchestra Festival has made its name as the largest gathering of Concertmasters and Principal Players in the United States, boasting top level players from the world’s greatest orchestras including the New York Philharmonic, Cleveland Orchestra, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Philadelphia Orchestra, Philharmonic and dozens more. Mainly Mozart’s mission is to enrich the lives of today and tomorrow’s passionate music lovers by connecting them to the genius and innovation of Mozart and the Masters, to world-class musicians and music-making, and to each other. For more information, visit www.mainlymozart.org. Keep up with news and announcements on social media: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube and TikTok.
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35th Anniversary Festival Features Top Musicians from 27 Orchestras across the US and Canada for Six Special Performances June 15-24
Mainly Mozart is excited to announce the full orchestra roster for the 35th anniversary of the Mainly Mozart All-Star Orchestra Festival, the country’s largest gathering of concertmasters and principal players from the nation’s top orchestras, who come together each summer in San Diego for a week of remarkable performances of classical music’s finest scores.
Celebrating its 35th year, the orchestra, led by Maestro Michael Francis, will return to its popular outdoor venue on the lawn of the Del Mar Surf Sports Park for its opening night June 15 followed by two additional performances June 17 and 18. The orchestra then heads to La Jolla, performing Mahler 4 at The Conrad on June 20 then heading to the highly acclaimed new Epstein Family Amphitheater for two nights of performances, June 22 and 24.
This year’s orchestra roster is a group of incredible concertmasters and principal players from 27 orchestras: Atlanta Symphony, Canadian Opera Orchestra, Cincinnati Symphony, Cleveland Orchestra, Dallas Symphony, Delaware Symphony, Detroit Symphony, Florida Orchestra, Houston Symphony, Indianapolis Symphony, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Los Angeles Opera, Milwaukee Symphony, Minnesota Orchestra, Naples Symphony, National Symphony, Pacific Symphony, Philadelphia Orchestra, River Oaks Chamber Orchestra, San Diego Symphony, San Francisco Symphony, Seattle Symphony, Toronto Symphony, Tucson Symphony, Utah Symphony and Vancouver Symphony.
Mainly Mozart All-Star Orchestra Festival 2023 Full Orchestra Roster
Concertmasters:
Los Angeles Philharmonic Concertmaster Martin Chalifour (June 15, 18, 20, 22), Newly-appointed Cleveland Orchestra Concertmaster David Radzynski (June 17)
Dallas Symphony Orchestra Concertmaster Alexander Kerr (June 24)
*Mainly Mozart All-Star Orchestra Principal players noted in bold.
Violin
Nurit Bar-Josef, Principle Second: National Symphony, Concertmaster
Marie Berard: Canadian Opera Orchestra, Concertmaster
Justin Bruns: Atlanta Symphony, Associate Concertmaster
Zachary DePue: Naples Symphony, Concertmaster
Aloysia Friedman: River Oaks Chamber Orchestra, Co-Concertmaster
Angela Fuller: Dallas Symphony, Principal 2nd
Jeffrey Multer: Florida Orchestra, Concertmaster
Wes Precourt: San Diego Symphony, Associate Concertmaster
Lauren Roth: Tucson Symphony, Concertmaster
Jeanne Skrocki: Pacific Symphony, Assistant Concertmaster
Lisa Sutton: Los Angeles Opera, Assistant Concertmaster
Jeff Thayer: San Diego Symphony, Concertmaster
Nicholas Wright: Vancouver Symphony, Concertmaster
Viola
Brant Bayless, Principal: Utah Symphony, Principal
Michael Casimir, Principal: Toronto Symphony, Principal
Joan DerHovsepian, Principal: Houston Symphony, Principal
Derek Mosloff: Florida Orchestra, Principal
Jay Liu: San Francisco Symphony, Associate Principal
Remi Pellitier: Toronto Symphony, Associate Principal
Cello
Robert deMaine, Principal: Los Angeles Philharmonic, Principal
Karen Freer: Atlanta Symphony, Assistant Principal
Barry Gold: Los Angeles Philharmonic
Austin Huntington: Indianapolis Symphony, Principal
Jason Lippmann: Los Angeles Philharmonic
Una O’Riordan: Detroit Symphony
Brinton Smith: Houston Symphony, Principal
Bass
Nate Farrington, Principal: Los Angeles Opera, Principal
Scott Pingel, Principal: San Francisco Symphony, Principal
Robin Kesselman: Houston Symphony, Principal
David Allen Moore: Los Angeles Philharmonic
Flute
Jeffrey Khaner: Philadelphia Orchestra, Principal
Clay Ellerbroek: Florida Orchestra, Principal
Demarre McGill: Seattle Symphony, Principal
Diana Morgan: San Diego Symphony, Acting Piccolo
Oboe
Frank Rosenwein, Principal: Cleveland Orchestra, Principal
Andrea Overturf, Principal: San Diego Symphony, Principal (Eng. Horn)Anne Marie Gabriele: Los Angeles Philharmonic
Kevin Pearl: Milwaukee Symphony, Assistant Principal
Clarinet
Boris Allakhverdyan, Principal: Los Angeles Philharmonic, Principal
Christopher Pell, Principal: Cincinnati Symphony, Principal
Frank Renk: San Diego Symphony
Bassoon
Ted Soluri: Dallas Symphony, Principal
Catherine Van Handel: Milwaukee Symphony, Principal
Erik Holtje: Delaware Symphony
Leyla Zamora: San Diego Symphony (Contrabassoon)
French Horn
Abel Pereira, Principal: National Symphony, Principal
Jaclyn Rainey, Principal: Minnesota Orchestra, Acting Associate Principal
Elizabeth Linares: Los Angeles Philharmonic
Gregory Roosa: Los Angeles PhilharmonicKaylet Torrez: Pacific Symphony, Associate Principal
Trumpet
Ryan Darke: Los Angeles Opera, Principal
Jonah Levy: San Diego Symphony
Frank Glasson: Pacific Symphony
Trombone
David Rejano Contero: Los Angeles Philharmonic, Principal
James Miller: Los Angeles Philharmonic, Associate Principal
John Lofton: Los Angeles Philharmonic (Bass Trombone)
Percussion
Daniel Chavarin, Principal Percussion: San Diego Symphony
Jauvon Gilliam, Principal Timpani: National Symphony, PrincipalWesley Sumpter, Principal: Los Angeles Philharmonic
Mika Nakamura: San Francisco Symphony
Keyboard
Nicholas Halbert (Harmonium)
Joanne Pearce Martin: Los Angeles Philharmonic (piano)
Soloists
The festival opens its ‘Del Mar Week’ Thursday, June 15, at the open-air Del Mar Surf Sports Park. The opening night performance features LA Philharmonic Principal Whitney Crockett performing Mozart’s Bassoon Concerto in a program that also includes works by Gossec and Beethoven. Saturday, June 17, acclaimed Pianist Anne-Marie McDermott joins the All-Star Orchestra to perform Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 25. Works by Beethoven and Michael Abels round out the program. Father’s Day, Sunday, June 18, Violinist Karen Gomyo, hailed by the New York Times as “extraordinary,” performs Brahms’ Violin Concerto in a program also featuring Mozart’s Grande Fantaisie in C minor.
On Thursday, June 22 the new, open-air Epstein Family Amphitheater at UC San Diego hosts the Orchestra for Mozart’s beloved Marriage of Figaro and Magic Flute Overtures, Saint-Saëns Introduction and Rondo Capriccioso featuring Martin Chalifour, violin, and the Shostakovich Piano Concerto No. 2 with Soloist Chelsea Guo. The festival closes on June 22 with Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 featuring the San Diego Master Chorale.
When:
June 15, 17, 18, 20, 22, 24 | 7:30PM-9:00PM
Where:
June 15-18: Del Mar Surf Sports Park | 14989 Via de la Valle, Del Mar
June 20: The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center | 7600 Fay Ave, La Jolla, CA 92037
June 22-24: UC San Diego’s Epstein Family Amphitheater | 9500 Gilman Dr, San Diego, CA 92093Tickets:
Tickets may be purchased online at www.mainlymozart.org/allstar or by calling the box office at (619) 955-8273 Monday - Friday from 8am to 5pm.###
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Spring auditions for the Mainly Mozart Youth Orchestra ensembles, including Beginning Strings, Intermediate Strings, Concert Band, Intermediate Orchestra and Advanced Orchestra, take place April 13-15. Students should submit their audition material via video through the link on the Mainly Mozart Youth Orchestra website, www.mmyo.org, which will be active only during this window. All audition materials and instructions are available on the MMYO website. Ages are as follows: Beginning Strings: 6-10, Intermediate Strings: 10-12, Intermediate Orchestra/Concert Band: 11/12-15/16, Advanced Orchestra: 13-18.
No-audition is required for Suzuki Stars (kindergarten - third grade) which will begin registration April 13th. We will continue accepting students until the group fills up. Suzuki Stars provides group class instruction for beginner violin, viola and cello students. Students will learn the basics of holding and playing their instrument to prepare for advancement to Suzuki Comets. Daily home practice assignments will be given. Suzuki Stars perform on stage in MMYO all-ensemble concerts. Parent attendance is required at all Suzuki Stars rehearsals and concerts.
Mainly Mozart Youth Orchestra ensembles currently serve over 250 students ages 5-19, hailing from all over San Diego County. Mainly Mozart Youth Orchestra students regularly participate in regional and national music programs such as NYO-USA, Tanglewood, National Symphony Orchestra Summer Music Institute, Idyllwild and more, and many alumni have gone on to pursue college careers in music.
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Returning to the Del Mar Surf Sports Park, the orchestra will also perform at two new festival venues: The Conrad in La Jolla and the Epstein Family Amphitheater at UC San Diego
Concertmasters and principal players from the nation’s top orchestras will come together in San Diego June 15-24 under the baton of Maestro Michael Francis as the Mainly Mozart All-Star Orchestra Festival celebrates 35 years. The festival returns to the Del Mar Surf Sports Park and will expand to two new festival venues: the Conrad in La Jolla and UC San Diego’s Epstein Family Amphitheater. Three-and six-concert subscriptions now on sale. All tickets go on sale March 29 at special early bird pricing, which ends April 13.
Featuring musicians from top U.S. orchestras including the New York Philharmonic, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Chicago Symphony, Cleveland Orchestra, Philadelphia Orchestra and more, Mainly Mozart’s All-Star Orchestra is the only orchestra of its kind in the country.
Concertmasters for the 2023 festival include Los Angeles Philharmonic Concertmaster Martin Chalifour (June 15, 18, 20, 22), newly-appointed Cleveland Orchestra Concertmaster David Radzynski (June 17) and Dallas Symphony Orchestra Concertmaster Alexander Kerr (June 24).
“Our 35th anniversary festival has a great balance of the familiar, the intriguing and the new. Featuring an incredible group of soloists alongside our amazing orchestra, there will be absolute fireworks throughout,” said Mainly Mozart Music Director Michael Francis. “Crowning our first major concerts at UC San Diego we have Mozart’s Magic Flute and Marriage of Figaro, Shostakovich, Saint-Sainz and we’ll close out the festival with Beethoven’s 9th Symphony with the San Diego Master Chorale.”
Del Mar Week - June 15 -18
The festival opens its ‘Del Mar Week’ Friday, June 15, at the open-air Del Mar Surf Sports Park. The opening night performance features LA Philharmonic Principal Whitney Crockett performing Mozart’s Bassoon Concerto in a program that also includes works by Gossec and Beethoven. Saturday, June 16, acclaimed Pianist Anne-Marie McDermott joins the All-Star Orchestra to perform Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 25. Works by Beethoven and Michael Abels round out the program. The following night, Father’s Day, Sunday, June 18, Violinist Karen Gomyo, hailed by the New York Times as “extraordinary,” performs Brahms’ Violin Concerto in a program also featuring Mozart’s Grande Fantaisie in C minor.
La Jolla Week - June 20-24
Tuesday, June 20, the Orchestra moves indoors for an intimate chamber orchestra performance of Mahler’s Symphony No. 4 at The Conrad’s Baker-Baum Concert Hall in La Jolla. On Thursday, June 22 the new, open-air Epstein Family Amphitheater at UC San Diego hosts the Orchestra for Mozart’s beloved Marriage of Figaro and Magic Flute Overtures, Saint-Saëns Introduction and Rondo Capriccioso featuring Martin Chalifour, violin, and the Shostakovich Piano Concerto No. 2 with Soloist Chelsea Guo. The 35th Annual Mainly Mozart All-Star Festival closes Saturday, June 24 with Beethoven’s beloved 9th Symphony performed with the San Diego Master Chorale.
“San Diegans have the unique experience of hearing classical music’s finest scores played by the country’s top orchestral musicians as they come together as the Mainly Mozart All-Star Orchestra for six remarkable concerts this June,” said Mainly Mozart CEO Nancy Laturno. “We invite San Diegans to bring their family and friends to experience the magic of these concerts as we celebrate a very special 35th anniversary.”
When:
June 15, 17, 18, 20, 22, 24 | 7:30PM-9:00PM
Where:
June 15-18: Del Mar Surf Sports Park | 14989 Via de la Valle, Del Mar
June 20: The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center | 7600 Fay Ave, La Jolla, CA 92037
June 22-24: UC San Diego’s Epstein Family Amphitheater | 9500 Gilman Dr, San Diego, CA 92093Tickets:
Three-and six-concert packages start at $65 and $150 and are on sale now. All other tickets go on sale March 29 at Early Bird Pricing, which ends April 13. Early Bird Prices for the Del Mar Surf Sports Park concerts start at $25 per person for general admission Tier B seating, $80-$110 per person for Tier A personal viewing pods, $110-$140 for two-person pods, $140-$170 for three-person pods and $170-$200 for four-person pods. Table seating ranges from $300 for two people to $500 for four people, with VIP tables ranging from $600 for two people to $1,000 for four people. Early Bird Pricing for the two Epstein Family Amphitheater concerts range from $25 to $160, per person. Early Bird Pricing for the Baker-Baum Concert Hall performance range from $30 to $120. Prices increase April 14.Box Office:
(619) 955-8273
Online: mainlymozart.org///
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The Mainly Mozart Youth Orchestra presents its winter concert Saturday, Feb. 4. San Diego Symphony clarinetist and MMYO alumnus Max Opferkuch will perform Krommer’s Clarinet Concerto with the Advanced Orchestra. The concert also features MMYO Chamber Players and a world premiere by current MMYO student and Advanced Orchestra trombonist Edric Saphire.
The Mainly Mozart Youth Orchestra recruits the best young San Diego student musicians to audition each May for a place in MMYO’s Intermediate and Advanced Orchestras, Intermediate Strings and Concert Band. Featuring top instructors with decades of experience, MMYO provides its students with solo, chamber, and orchestral performance opportunities all throughout San Diego. MMYO members also receive a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to rehearse and perform side-by-side with the Mainly Mozart Festival Orchestra, the largest gathering of concertmasters and principal players from major orchestras across the country, which takes place each June. For more information visit www.mainlymozart.org.
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The Mainly Mozart Youth Orchestra Chamber Players perform the "Brandenburg Concertos" Sunday, March 12. About the Brandenburg Concertos…
The Mainly Mozart Youth Orchestra Chamber Players are a smaller group of MMYO musicians who perform classical music composed for fewer instruments than a full orchestra, typically chamber groups range from 5 members to 25.
The Mainly Mozart Youth Orchestra recruits the best young San Diego student musicians to audition each May for a place in MMYO’s Intermediate and Advanced Orchestras, Intermediate Strings and Concert Band. Featuring top instructors with decades of experience, MMYO provides its students with solo, chamber, and orchestral performance opportunities all throughout San Diego. MMYO members also receive a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to rehearse and perform side-by-side with the Mainly Mozart Festival Orchestra, the largest gathering of concertmasters and principal players from major orchestras across the country, which takes place each June. For more information visit www.mainlymozart.org.
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MMYO will perform the Brandenburg Concertos during the showcase June 11 in the Great Hall at St. Paul’s Cathedral
San Diego’s premier orchestra for young student musicians, the Mainly Mozart Youth Orchestra (MMYO), announces its partnership with the San Diego Early Music Society (SDEMS) to bring its “Intro to Early Music” class to MMYOs players. In addition to the class, MMYO will participate in the San Diego Early Early Music Showcase June 11, performing Bach’s Brandenburg Concertos. The performance will take place in the acoustically acclaimed Great Hall at St. Paul’s Cathedral on Sixth Street in downtown San Diego.
The “Intro to Early Music,” presented by members of the San Diego Early Music Society, will educate the young musicians on early music, defined as music of the medieval, renaissance and baroque periods, including its repertoire and composers, as well as introducing them to period instruments through live demonstrations.
“This is a wonderful opportunity for our young musicians to learn about early music and period instruments through demonstrations by the extremely knowledgeable San Diego Early Music Society,” said MMYO director xxxx. “To then offer an opportunity for our musicians to perform a baroque-era composition in a setting such as St. Paul’s, with its unique acoustics ideally suited to the Brandenburg, is something that will leave a lasting impression on our orchestra members.”
Tickets for the June 11 San Diego Early Music Showcase will be available on the San Diego Early Music Society website: www.sdems.org.
About the San Diego Early Music Society
Founded in 1981, the San Diego Early Music Society was founded to showcase the musical treasures of the Middle Ages, Renaissance, and Baroque eras, as performed on period instruments and in accordance with historical practice. The Society seeks to foster an appreciation for this repertoire through concerts in churches, small halls, museums, and homes—settings for which the music was composed – and to diversify and enhance cultural life in our community by presenting internationally recognized musicians on our local stages. For more information, visit www.sdems.org.
About Mainly Mozart Youth Orchestra
The Mainly Mozart Youth Orchestra, www.mainlymozartyo.org, recruits the best young San Diego student musicians to audition each Spring and Fall for a place in MMYO’s Intermediate and Advanced Orchestras, Intermediate Strings and Concert Band. Mainly Mozart also offers Suzuki Strings programs for beginners, with no audition required. Featuring top instructors with decades of experience, MMYO provides its students with solo and orchestral performance opportunities throughout San Diego. MMYO members also receive a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to rehearse and perform side-by-side with the Mainly Mozart All-Star Orchestra, the largest gathering of concertmasters and principal players from major orchestras across the country, which celebrates its 35th season June 15-24.
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