2026−27 SEASON
SEPTEMBER 2026
OPENING NIGHT @ THE JAI
FRED HERSCH TRIO*
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 20, 2026 · 5 PM & 7:30 PM Concerts @ The JAI
LINDA MAY HAN OH TRIO
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2026 · 5:30 PM & 8 PM Concerts @ The JAI
OCTOBER 2026
OPENING NIGHT AT THE BAKER-BAUM
JOYCE DiDONATO & TIME FOR THREE
EMILY — NO PRISONER BE
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2026 · 7:30 PM ProtoStar Innovative Series
POIESIS QUARTET*
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2026 · 3 PM Discovery Series
GABRIELA MONTERO*, piano
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2026 · 7:30 PM Piano Series
4 PERFORMANCES
JOHN PIZZARELLI PRESENTS
“DEAR MR. BENNETT”
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2026 · 5:30 PM & 8 PM
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2026 · 5 PM & 7:30 PM Concerts @ The JAI
LILA DOWNS
DÍA DE MUERTOS
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2026 · 7:30 PM
Global Roots Series • Balboa Theatre
Todd R. Schultz, President & CEO | Leah Rosenthal, Artistic Director
JEAN-GUIHEN QUEYRAS*, cello & ALEXANDRE THARAUD*, piano
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2026 · 7:30 PM Recital Series
NOVEMBER 2026
NEMANJA RADULOVIĆ*& DOUBLE SENS*
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2026 · 7:30 PM
Revelle Chamber Music Series
LES ARTS FLORISSANTS
WILLIAM CHRISTIE, PAUL AGNEW, co-directors
THE MAGIC OF MONTEVERDI
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2026 · 7:30 PM
Revelle Chamber Music Series
MANUAL CINEMA*
LEONARDO!
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2026 · 3 PM
The ConRAD Kids Series
THE NAGHASH ENSEMBLE*
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2026 · 3 PM
Global Roots Series
DECEMBER 2026
MEOW MEOW
FELINE FESTIVE
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2026 · 7:30 PM
Special Event
CONNECT TO THE CONRAD
HILARY HAHN, violin;
MATTHIAS GOERNE, baritone;
YEKWON SUNWOO, piano
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2026 · 7:30 PM
Recital Series
EDMAR CASTAÑEDA QUARTET*
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2026
5:30 PM & 8 PM
Concerts @ The JAI
LUKAS STERNATH*, piano
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2026 · 3 PM
Discovery Series
THE HOT SARDINES
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2026 · 7:30 PM
Jazz Series
JANUARY 2027
EMANUEL AX, piano
FRIDAY, JANUARY 8, 2027 · 7:30 PM
Piano Series
MAGIC PIANO & THE CHOPIN SHORTS*
SATURDAY, JANUARY 23, 2027
10 AM & 11:30 AM
The ConRAD Kids Series • The JAI
CAMILLE THURMAN* WITH THE DARRELL GREEN QUARTET*
SUNDAY, JANUARY 24, 2027
5 PM & 7:30 PM
Concerts @ The JAI
ERIKA WOOLSEY*
DIVING IN THE GREAT BARRIER REEF
THURSDAY, JANUARY 28, 2027 · 7:30 PM
Speaker Series
KRONOS QUARTET
SATURDAY, JANUARY 30, 2027 · 7:30 PM
ProtoStar Innovative Series
ITZHAK PERLMAN
IN THE FIDDLER’S HOUSE
SUNDAY, JANUARY 31, 2027 · 7 PM
Global Roots Series • Jacobs Music Center
FEBRUARY 2027
JULIUS RODRIGUEZ* FROM THE BENCH TO THE THRONE
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2027
5:30 PM & 8 PM
Concerts @ The JAI
KODO ONE EARTH TOUR 2027 LUMINANCE
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2027 · 7:30 PM
Special Event • Balboa Theatre
ANGEL STANISLAV WANG*, piano
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2027 · 3 PM
Discovery Series
BLACK GRACE
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2027 · 7:30 PM
Dance Series • Balboa Theatre
ANAND VARMA*
EXPLORING NATURE’S HIDDEN WORLDS
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2027 · 7:30 PM
Speaker Series
CIRCA*
THE ART OF FUGUE
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2027 · 7:30 PM
ProtoStar Innovative Series
TYSHAWN SOREY TRIO
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2027
5 PM & 7:30 PM
Concerts @ The JAI
VÍKINGUR ÓLAFSSON*, piano
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2027 · 7:30 PM
Piano Series
JAZZ AT LINCOLN CENTER WITH WYNTON MARSALIS
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2027 · 7:30 PM
Jazz Series • Jacobs Music Center
MARCH 2027
SEONG-JIN CHO, piano
FRIDAY, MARCH 5, 2027 · 7:30 PM Piano Series
STANLEY CLARKE* AND HIROMI
ALONG WITH THE PUBLIQuartet
SATURDAY, MARCH 6, 2027 · 7:30 PM Jazz Series • Balboa Theatre
JAEMIN HAN, cello & DAVID FUNG*, piano
THURSDAY, MARCH 11, 2027 · 7:30 PM Recital Series
2 PERFORMANCES
CONNECT TO THE CONRAD ACADEMY OF ST MARTIN IN THE FIELDS
SATURDAY, MARCH 13, 2027 · 3 PM & 7:30 PM Revelle Chamber Music Series
GOITSE
SUNDAY, MARCH 14, 2027 · 5 PM & 7:30 PM Concerts @ The JAI
MARK MORRIS DANCE GROUP
SATURDAY, MARCH 20, 2027 · 7:30 PM Dance Series • Civic Theatre
INMO YANG*, violin
SUNDAY, MARCH 21, 2027 · 3 PM Discovery Series
JODI ROWLEY*
WEIRD WORLD OF FROGS
THURSDAY, MARCH 25, 2027 · 7:30 PM Speaker Series
APRIL 2027
WILDFLOWERS: KURT ELLING WITH CHRISTIAN SANDS
THURSDAY, APRIL 1, 2027 · 5:30 PM & 8 PM Concerts @ The JAI
AN EVENING WITH AUDRA McDONALD
FRIDAY, APRIL 2, 2027 · 8 PM
Special Event
WINTERFEST GALA
IL POMO D’ORO WITH MICHAEL SPYRES*, baritenor
SATURDAY APRIL 3, 2027 · 7:30 PM
Revelle Chamber Music Series
SONA JOBARTEH
THURSDAY, APRIL 8, 2027 · 7:30 PM
Global Roots Series
4 PERFORMANCES
DREAMERS’ CIRCUS
SATURDAY, APRIL 10, 2027 · 5:30 PM & 8 PM
SUNDAY, APRIL 11, 2027 · 5 PM & 7:30 PM
Concerts @ The JAI
2 PERFORMANCES
NOGRAVITY THEATRE*
SATURDAY, APRIL 17, 2027 · 3 PM & 7:30 PM Dance Series
STEVE WINTER*
THE RACE TO SAVE BIG CATS
THURSDAY, APRIL 22, 2027 · 7:30 PM
Speaker Series
YUJA WANG, piano
SATURDAY, APRIL 24, 2027 · 7:30 PM
Piano Series • Jacobs Music Center
MAY
2027
HIMARI*, violin & CHELSEA WANG*, piano
SUNDAY, MAY 2, 2027 · 3 PM
Discovery Series
JASON MORAN* PRESENTS THE MUSIC OF DUKE ELLINGTON: MY HEART SINGS
THURSDAY, MAY 6, 2027 · 7:30 PM
Jazz Series / JAZZ MINI-FESTIVAL
ARTEMIS*
FRIDAY, MAY 7, 2027 · 7:30 PM
Jazz Series / JAZZ MINI-FESTIVAL
JASON MORAN & THE HARLEM HELLFIGHTERS*
JAMES REESE EUROPE AND THE ABSENCE OF RUIN
SATURDAY, MAY 8, 2027 · 7:30 PM
ProtoStar Innovative Series / JAZZ MINI-FESTIVAL
LAKECIA BENJAMIN
FRIDAY, MAY 14, 2027 · 5:30 PM & 8 PM
Concerts @ The JAI / JAZZ MINI-FESTIVAL
ALONZO KING LINES BALLET
SATURDAY, MAY 15, 2027 · 7:30 PM
Dance Series / JAZZ MINI-FESTIVAL
Civic Theatre
NADINE SIERRA*, soprano
BRYAN WAGORN*, piano
SUNDAY, MAY 16, 2027 · 7 PM
Recital Series
ELENA MOON PARK AND FRIENDS*
SATURDAY, MAY 22, 2027
10 AM & 11:30 AM
The ConRAD Kids Series • The JAI
ENDEA OWENS & THE COOKOUT
THURSDAY, MAY 27, 2027 · 5:30 PM & 8 PM
Concerts @ The JAI
KODO
ACADEMY OF ST MARTIN IN THE FIELDS
LAKECIA BENJAMIN
MEOW MEOW FELINE FESTIVE
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2026
7:30 PM
THE BAKER-BAUM CONCERT HALL
SPECIAL E VENT S AS SERIES SUBSCRIBER, YOU HAVE FIRST ACCESS TO SEATS FOR SPECIAL EVENTS! SUBSCRIPTION PACKAGES ON SALE NOW SAVE 10% AND HAVE FIRST ACCESS TO THE BEST SEATS BY ORDERING NOW MANY CONCERTS SELL OUT— DON’T WAIT. VISIT THECONRAD.ORG OR CALL 858.459.3728
Joy. Mayhem. A live band. And absolutely no silent nights. Enter the gloriously off-kilter world of international chanteuse and comedic force of nature Meow Meow. Part cabaret, part concert, this festive evening travels from jazzy showbiz and witty Weimar-era tunes to French chanson, contemporary classics, and original surprises.
KODO ONE EARTH TOUR 2027: LUMINANCE
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2027
7:30 PM
BALBOA THEATRE
Kodo’s “One Earth” journey has reached millions worldwide, sharing the unifying force of taiko. Luminance brings together the ensemble’s most celebrated works—the O-daiko drum solo, the climatic Yatai-bayashi finale, and a tribute to Ishii’s masterpiece Monochrome—with fresh creations in an unforgettable, high-energy experience.
WINTERFEST GAL A
AN EVENING WITH AUDRA McDONALD
FRIDAY, APRIL 2, 2027 • 8 PM
THE BAKER-BAUM CONCERT HALL
“
Audra McDonald stands as an unparalleled luminary”
— Stage and Cinema
Soprano Audra McDonald is the winner of a record-breaking six Tony Awards, two GRAMMY™ Awards, an Emmy Award, and the National Medal of Arts. She regularly appears in the world’s foremost venues, but in this singular evening, enjoy Audra’s resplendent talent in the intimate Baker-Baum Concert Hall as she shares songs from Broadway, the Great American Songbook, and beyond.
Series Subscribers who purchase non-Gala seats will be invited to the WinterFest Gala afterparty!
Gala WINTERFEST
For the ultimate experience, reserve seats as part of the WinterFest Gala. Join us and help raise vital funds that support our Learning & Engagement programs, bringing the joy of music and the arts in communities throughout San Diego.
Email Gala@TheConrad.org to learn more.
PIANO SERIES
GABRIELA MONTERO
FRIDAY OCTOBER 23, 2026 · 7:30 PM
THE BAKER-BAUM CONCERT HALL
The internationally acclaimed pianist Gabriela Montero returns to La Jolla Music Society with a richly expressive recital of Spanish and Spanish-inspired music. Her evocative program brings together beloved works by Isaac Albéniz, Enrique Granados, Liszt and others, alongside rarely heard miniatures by the legendary Alicia de Larrocha.
Repertoire to be announced
EMANUEL AX
FRIDAY, JANUARY 8, 2027 · 7:30 PM
THE BAKER-BAUM CONCERT HALL
SCHUMANN Papillons
SCHUBERT Four Impromptus, D.935
CHOPIN Barcarolle, Op. 60
Nocturnes, Op. 27, Nos. 1 & 2
Scherzo No. 2 in B-Flat Minor, Op. 31
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2027
7:30 PM
THE BAKER-BAUM CONCERT HALL
Víkingur Ólafsson, one of today’s most acclaimed classical artists, is a visionary pianist whose awardwinning recordings have reached over a billion streams. He is a GRAMMY ® Award winner and a Gramophone Artist of the Year. His captivating recital will lead audiences on a reflective journey through the music of Philip Glass, Claude Debussy, and Jean-Philippe Rameau.
Repertoire to be announced
SEONG-JIN CHO
FRIDAY, MARCH 5, 2027· 7:30 PM
THE BAKER-BAUM CONCERT HALL
JÖRG WIDMANN Sonatina facile
PROKOFIEV Ten Pieces from Romeo and Juliet, Op. 75
MOZART Fantasia in C Minor, K. 396
PROKOFIEV Piano Sonata No. 8 in B-Flat Major, Op. 84
PIANO SERIES
YUJA WANG
SATURDAY, APRIL 24, 2027
7:30 PM
JACOBS MUSIC CENTER
GRAMMY® Award-winning pianist and global icon Yuja Wang has performed with the world’s most venerated conductors, musicians, and ensembles. She is renowned for her virtuosity and spontaneity, famously telling the New York Times, “I firmly believe every program should have its own life, and be a representation of how I feel at the moment.” Called a “complete virtuoso” (Daily Mail) with “faultless fingers” (The Guardian), she is sure to deliver a transcendent evening.
Repertoire to be announced
REVELLE CHAMBER MUSIC SERIES
NEMANJA RADULOVIĆ, violin & DOUBLE SENS
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 2026
7:30 PM
THE BAKER-BAUM CONCERT HALL
Rising star Nemanja Radulović won the prestigious 2024 Opus Klassik Award for Concerto Recording of the Year for his acclaimed Beethoven Violin Concerto & Kreutzer Sonata recording. Expect an evening of emotional intensity and rhythmic vitality as he performs with his boundarybreaking ensemble Double Sens.
LES ARTS FLORISSANTS
WILLIAM CHRISTIE AND PAUL AGNEW, co-directors
THE MAGIC OF MONTEVERDI
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2026 · 7:30 PM
THE BAKER-BAUM CONCERT HALL
Join Baroque masters William Christie and Paul Agnew for a vivid program of Monteverdi’s finest madrigals for mixed voices, including a performance of the iconic Il combattimento di Tancredi e Clorinda. Christie will lead the continuo from the harpsichord, while Agnew will direct and sing with a vocal ensemble to reveal Monteverdi’s transformative power and enduring musical innovation.
VIVALDI The Four Seasons , Op.8 RIMSKY-KORSAKOV Scheherazade
Repertoire to be announced
ACADEMY OF ST MARTIN IN THE FIELDS
CONRAD TAO, piano
SATURDAY, MARCH 13, 2027 · 3 PM AND 7:30 PM
THE BAKER-BAUM CONCERT HALL
The Academy of St Martin in the Fields is one of the world’s finest orchestras, renowned for fresh, brilliant interpretations of the world’s greatest orchestral music. They will be joined by pianist Conrad Tao in two vibrant programs that blend tradition and innovation.
TWO UNIQUE PERFORMANCES IN THE BAKER-BAUM CONCERT HALL!
3 PM PROGRAM
MOZART Piano Concerto No.23 in A Major, K. 488
COPLAND Appalachian Spring
7:30 PM PROGRAM
STRAVINSKY Concerto in E-flat Major “Dumbarton Oaks”
J.S. BACH/STRAVINSKY Four Preludes and Fugues from The Well-Tempered Clavier
J.S. BACH Piano Concerto No.4 in A Major, BWV 1055
CONRAD TAO New Work for Strings
COPLAND Appalachian Spring
REVELLE CHAMBER MUSIC SERIES
IL POMO D’ORO WITH MICHAEL SPYRES, baritenor TENORE ASSOLUTO
SATURDAY, APRIL 3, 2027 · 7:30 PM
THE BAKER-BAUM CONCERT HALL
Internationally acclaimed baritenor Michael Spyres partners with the celebrated period ensemble il Pomo d’Oro for an evening of Baroque treasures from Handel, Vivaldi, and Rameau and overlooked works by Galuppi, Sarri, and A. Mazzoni in a journey through the golden age of opera.
Repertoire to be announced
RECITAL SERIES
JEAN-GUIHEN QUEYRAS, cello & ALEXANDRE THARAUD, piano
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2026 · 7:30 PM
THE BAKER-BAUM CONCERT HALL
Two of France’s most beloved musicians mark three decades together with a repertoire from Renaissance inspirations to modernism. The first half of this memorable concert will conclude with the gorgeous Brahms Cello Sonata in E Minor, Op. 38, while the second half journeys through works by Schubert, Britten, Fauré, Debussy, Brahms, and more.
Repertoire to be announced
HILARY HAHN, violin
MATTHIAS GOERNE, baritone
YEKWON SUNWOO , piano
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2026 · 7:30 PM
THE BAKER-BAUM CONCERT HALL
THREE POWERHOUSE ARTISTS ON THE BAKER-BAUM STAGE!
A Met Opera superstar joins a three-time GRAMMY®-winning violinist and a Van Cliburn Gold Medal winner on stage. Baritone Matthias Goerne’s profound expressive power couples with Hilary Hahn’s trailblazing virtuosity in an unforgettable evening. Joined by acclaimed pianist Yekwon Sunwoo, they will illuminate the classical repertoire as well as a new Reena Esmail work with emotional depth and technical brilliance.
Repertoire to be announced
JAEMIN HAN, cello & DAVID FUNG, piano
THURSDAY, MARCH 11, 2027 · 7:30 PM
THE BAKER-BAUM CONCERT HALL
After a stellar debut on our Discovery Series in 2025, cellist Jaemin Han returns to The Conrad. Han gained international recognition in 2021 as the youngestever winner of the Grand Prix at the prestigious George Enescu International Competition. In this concert, he will be joined by pianist David Fung, praised for his “ravishing and simply gorgeous” performances in The Washington Post.
RACHMANINOFF Vocalise
SHOSTAKOVICH Cello Sonata in D Minor, Op. 40
MILHAUD Élégie
CHOPIN Cello Sonata in G Minor, Op. 65
RECITAL SERIES
NADINE SIERRA, soprano & BRYAN WAGORN, piano
SUNDAY, MAY 16, 2027 · 7 PM
THE BAKER-BAUM CONCERT HALL
A dazzling evening with superstar soprano Nadine Sierra—leading voice of the Met, La Scala, and Paris Opera. She’ll ignite iconic arias with special selections such as “I Could Have Danced All Night” from My Fair Lady to “Casta diva” from Bellini’s Norma, bringing Gershwin, Puccini, Bellini, Bernstein, Villa-Lobos, and Giménez to electrifying life.
Repertoire to be announced
PROTOSTAR INNOVAT IVE SERIES
OPENING NIGHT AT THE BAKER-BAUM
EDUCATION AMBASSADOR-IN-RESIDENCE
JOYCE D i DONATO AND TIME FOR THREE
EMILY—NO PRISONER BE
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2026 · 7:30 PM
THE BAKER-BAUM CONCERT HALL
Emily—No Prisoner Be unites Emily Dickinson’s poetry with Pulitzer Prize-winner Kevin Puts’ luminous 24-part song cycle, created for GRAMMY™ Award-winning artist Joyce DiDonato and genre-defying ensemble Time for Three. With music which feels at once familiar and new, Emily Dickinson’s poetry and Puts’ music feel as if they have always belonged together.
KRONOS QUARTET
PHILIP GLASS AT 90: A BIRTHDAY TRIBUTE
SATURDAY, JANUARY 30, 2027 • 7:30 PM
THE BAKER-BAUM CONCERT HALL
To celebrate the 90th birthday of the legendary composer Philip Glass, Kronos Quartet journeys through the composer’s iconic string quartets, evocative film scores for Mishima and Dracula, and the powerful Quartet Satz from 50 for the Future.
CIRCA: THE ART OF FUGUE
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2027 · 7:30 PM
THE BAKER-BAUM CONCERT HALL
Dive into Circa, where the meticulous intellect of Johann Sebastian Bach’s The Art of Fugue meets the breathtaking physicality of contemporary acrobatics. Eight acrobats will be joined by 2025 Van Cliburn Silver Medalist Vitaly Starikov in a celebration of human potential, pushing the limits of both mind and body.
PROTOSTAR INNOVATIVE SERIES
ARTIST-IN-RESIDENCE
JASON MORAN AND THE HARLEM HELLFIGHTERS JAMES REESE EUROPE AND THE ABSENCE OF RUIN
JAZZ MINI-FESTIVAL
SATURDAY, MAY 8, 2027 · 7:30 PM
THE BAKER-BAUM CONCERT HALL
Jazz pianist Jason Moran will be joined by a 10-piece ensemble including a rhythm and horn section in a moving tribute to ragtime and jazz pioneer James Reese Europe. Europe commanded the African American WWI Harlem Hellfighters regiment who brought the vibrant new sound of jazz to a war-torn France. Europe’s distinctly American story unfolds through his music, paired with visuals by Oscar-nominated cinematographer Bradford Young, creating a poetic meditation on a remarkable hero.
DISCOVERY SERIES
POIESIS QUARTET
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2026 · 3 PM
THE BAKER-BAUM CONCERT HALL
First Prize of the 2025 Banff International String Quartet Competition
PROKOFIEV String Quartet No. 1 in B Minor, Op. 50
JEFF SCOTT Tapestry of the Beloved Beatified (2026)
SKY MACKLAY Many Many Cadences
BEETHOVEN String Quartet No. 16 in F Major, Op. 135
LUKAS STERNATH, piano
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2026 · 3 PM
THE BAKER-BAUM CONCERT HALL
First Prize of the 2022 International ARD Music Competition
SCHUBERT Piano Sonata No. 18 in G Major, D 894
BEETHOVEN Diabelli Variations, Op. 120
INMO YANG, violin
SUNDAY, MARCH 21, 2027 · 3 PM
THE BAKER-BAUM CONCERT HALL
First Prize Winner of the Sibelius Competition
ANGEL STANISLAV WANG, piano
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2027 · 3 PM
THE BAKER-BAUM CONCERT HALL
First Prize at the 2020 International Rachmaninoff Piano Competition
A Sunday afternoon of Liszt and Rachmaninoff! Featuring some of the composers’ most beloved pieces like Selections from Liszt’s Années de pèlerinage and Rachmaninoff’s Piano Sonata No.2, Op.36.
Repertoire to be announced
HIMARI, violin & CHELSEA WANG, piano
SUNDAY, MAY 2, 2027 · 3 PM
THE BAKER-BAUM CONCERT HALL
First prize at the 12th Arthur Grumiaux International Violin Competition in Belgium
SCHUBERT Violin Sonata in A Major, D.574 “Grand Duo”
GRIEG Sonata for Violin and Piano No. 3 in C Minor, Op. 45
MESSIAEN Fantaisie for Violin and Piano
KREISLER Viennese Rhapsodic Fantasietta
RAVEL Tzigane, M.76
MESSIAEN Theme and Variations
RAVEL Sonata for Violin and Piano No. 1, M.12
STRAUSS Sonata for Violin and Piano, Op. 18
More repertoire to be announced
LILA DOWNS DÍA DE MUERTOS
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2026 · 7:30 PM
Balboa Theatre
Come dressed in imaginative Día de Muertos attire to share in the celebration!
Celebrate Día de Muertos with GRAMMY™- and Latin GRAMMY™–winning Mexican American artist Lila Downs in a program of deeply personal rancheras and original songs. Downs shares the emotions of love, loss, reconnection, and joy that define Day of the Dead traditions on both sides of the border.
THE NAGHASH ENSEMBLE
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2026 · 3 PM THE BAKER-BAUM CONCERT HALL
The Naghash Ensemble combines the earthy spirituality of Armenian folk song with contemporary music. Three brilliant vocalists and some of Armenia’s finest instrumentalists on duduk, oud, dhol, and piano play new music based on sacred texts by the medieval Armenian mystic poet and priest Mkrtich Naghash.
ITZHAK PERLMAN IN THE FIDDLER’S HOUSE
SUNDAY, JANUARY 31, 2027 · 7 PM
JACOBS MUSIC CENTER
Itzhak Perlman leads a large all-star klezmer ensemble in a deeply personal project that is a heartfelt tribute to the sounds of Perlman’s Yiddishspeaking childhood and the enduring spirit of his musical heritage.
SONA JOBARTEH
THURSDAY, APRIL 8, 2027 · 7:30 PM
THE BAKER-BAUM CONCERT HALL
Back by popular demand! Sona Jobarteh is the first woman to achieve international recognition as a virtuoso on the kora. Blending deep cultural roots with a contemporary voice, Jobarteh alongside her band creates music that is both timeless and strikingly relevant.
JAZZ SERIES: IN TRIBUTE
THE HOT SARDINES
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2026
7:30 PM
THE BAKER-BAUM CONCERT HALL
Step into the golden age of jazz with The Hot Sardines, the genre-defying ensemble that brings the spirit of New York speakeasies roaring back to life. With brassy horns, rollicking piano, and irresistible vocals, this evening of vintage jazz, with a few holiday numbers sprinkled throughout, will have you clapping, laughing, and dancing in your seat.
JAZZ AT LINCOLN
CENTER WITH WYNTON MARSALIS
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2027
7:30 PM
JACOBS MUSIC CENTER
Wynton Marsalis returns to San Diego in a landmark moment: his final season as Artistic Director of Jazz at Lincoln Center and
Music Director of its legendary orchestra.
This is a rare chance to experience Marsalis and the JLCO together—an electrifying, history-making concert from America’s most celebrated jazz institution.
STANLEY CLARKE AND HIROMI
ALONG WITH THE PUBLIQuartet A CELEBRATION OF THE MUSIC OF CHICK COREA AND BEYOND SATURDAY MARCH 6, 2027 · 7:30 PM
BALBOA THEATRE
NEA Jazz Master and four-time GRAMMY™ winning bassist Stanley Clarke joins forces with piano innovator Hiromi for a high-voltage tribute to Chick Corea. Their explosive chemistry fuels a night of dazzling virtuosity, new works inspired by Corea’s genius, and the fearless improvisation that defined one of jazz’s most visionary voices.
ARTIST-IN-RESIDENCE
JAZZ SERIES: IN TRIBUTE
ARTEMIS JAZZ MINI-FESTIVAL
FRIDAY, MAY 7, 2027· 7:30 PM
THE BAKER-BAUM CONCERT HALL
ARTEMIS—founded by pianist-composer Renee Rosnes and honored as DownBeat’s Jazz Group of the Year for three consecutive years—unites five powerhouse bandleaders in one electrifying ensemble. This multinational collective of virtuosos brings bold originals, inspired arrangements, and a radiant, cliché-free spirit to a performance that celebrates the full brilliance of modern jazz.
JAZZ MINI-FESTIVAL
THURSDAY, MAY 6, 2027
7:30 PM
THE BAKER-BAUM CONCERT HALL
“ Jason Moran [is] shaping up to be the most provocative thinker in current jazz.”
— Rolling Stone
MacArthur “Genius Grant” winner Jason Moran is a visionary pianist and one of jazz’s most daring storytellers. He pays tribute to the timeless genius of Duke Ellington by brilliantly reimaging Ellington’s great canon, bringing his own deep artistry and historical insight to illuminate the composer’s elegance, swing, and emotional resonance.
JAZZ MINI-FESTIVAL • MAY 6–15, 2027
OTHER JAZZ MINI-FESTIVAL EVENTS INCLUDE
JASON MORAN AND THE HARLEM HELLFIGHTERS (page 13)
ALONZO KING LINES BALLET (page 19)
LAKECIA BENJAMIN (page 23)
DANCE SERIES
ARTIST-IN-RESIDENCE BLACK GRACE
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2027 • 7:30 PM
BALBOA THEATRE
New Zealand’s leading contemporary dance company
Founded by visionary choreographer Neil Ieremia, Black Grace channels the physicality and storytelling traditions of Samoan and New Zealand heritage into dance of striking beauty and power. This internationally acclaimed company will perform Ieremia’s signature works Handgame, Kiona and the Little Bird Suite, and Paradise Rumour along with Paul Taylor’s seminal work, Esplanade. These highly physical works, rich in the storytelling traditions of the South Pacific, shape an evening of unique beauty and cultural resonance.
MARK MORRIS DANCE GROUP
SATURDAY, MARCH 20, 2027 · 7:30 PM
CIVIC THEATRE
The Mark Morris Dance Group returns with V and Via Dolorosa. In V, Morris’ life-affirming classic with live musicians, Schumann’s soaring Piano Quintet is matched by buoyant, intricate choreography. Via Dolorosa unfolds to haunting solo harp music, evoking the 14 Stations of the Cross, framed by Howard Hodgkin’s vivid, emotionally resonant set.
NOGRAVITY THEATRE
SATURDAY, APRIL 17, 2027
3 PM & 7:30 PM
THE BAKER-BAUM CONCERT HALL TWO PERFORMANCES
The stage becomes a canvas for the impossible! Dancers transform Dante’s epic into a breathtaking world of illusion, aerial movement, and sculptural choreography. Drawing inspiration from the splendor of the Italian Renaissance and Baroque eras, this striking reimagining of The Divine Comedy transforms a timeless masterpiece into an ethereal, dramatic performance.
45 TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR
DANCE SERIES
ALONZO KING LINES BALLET
JAZZ MINI-FESTIVAL
SATURDAY, MAY 15, 2027 • 7:30 PM
CIVIC THEATRE
Dance joins the Jazz Mini-Festival with a powerful homage to jazz legend Alice Coltrane!
Celebrating its 45th anniversary, Alonzo King LINES Ballet returns with two programs that display their signature blend of sculptural beauty and raw emotional depth.
Visionary choreographer Alonzo King sets Maurice Ravel’s enchanting Mother Goose alongside Ode to Alice, inspired by the transcendent artistry of Alice Coltrane.
SPEAKER SERIES
ERIKA WOOLSEY
DIVING IN THE GREAT BARRIER REEF
THURSDAY, JANUARY 28, 2027 · 7:30 PM
THE BAKER-BAUM CONCERT HALL
The Great Barrier Reef is under attack from warming oceans. But there is still plenty to see and plenty to save. Go on assignment with marine biologist Erika Woolsey to meet the most colorful residents of this underwater jungle.
JODI ROWLEY
WEIRD WORLD OF FROGS
THURSDAY, MARCH 25, 2027 · 7:30 PM
THE BAKER-BAUM CONCERT HALL
Frogs can turn nearly invisible, leap more than 20 times their body length, and defend themselves with poison. We go on assignment with conservation biologist Jodi Rowley to discover all kinds of incredible abilities and springy biodiversity.
ANAND VARMA EXPLORING NATURE’S HIDDEN WORLDS
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2027 · 7:30 PM
THE BAKER-BAUM CONCERT HALL
Anand Varma shares the science behind the things the naked eye cannot perceive— everything from honeybee growth inside a colony, to the mechanics of hummingbird flight, to the mating practices of jellyfish, to hunting habits of vampire bats in the Yucatan rainforest.
STEVE WINTER THE RACE TO SAVE BIG CATS
THURSDAY, APRIL 22, 2027 · 7:30 PM
THE BAKER-BAUM CONCERT HALL
Steve Winter photographs big cats in some of the world’s most challenging environments. From tigers in India to mountain lions in Los Angeles, his work reveals the beauty, power, and fragile coexistence between wildlife and the human world.
MANUAL
CINEMA’S LEONARDO! A WONDERFUL SHOW ABOUT A TERRIBLE MONSTER
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2026 · 3 PM
THE BAKER-BAUM CONCERT HALL
Leonardo is a terrible monster. He tries so hard to be scary, but he just … isn’t. Beloved children’s book author Mo Willems’ delightful characters come to life in this imaginative show featuring live music, colorful puppets, and on-stage moviemaking.
Ages 3 and up • 45-minute concert
There are some loud sounds, flashing lights, and furry monster puppets in this show!
MAGIC PIANO & THE CHOPIN SHORTS
FEATURING
DEREK WANG, piano
SATURDAY, JANUARY 23, 2027
10 AM & 11:30 AM
The JAI
An introduction to classical music through a lively animated concert featuring live piano. Follow Anna and Chip-Chip’s magical flying piano adventure and enjoy charming short films set to Chopin’s music.
Ages 3 and up • 45-minute concert
ELENA MOON PARK AND FRIENDS
SATURDAY, MAY 22, 2027
10 AM & 11:30 AM
The JAI
Global folk and children’s music come to life in this performance blending languages and stories from around the world, including East and Southeast Asian traditions, Tibetan rhymes, and Spanish dance hits.
All ages • 45-minute concert
CONCERTS @ THE JAI
FRED HERSCH TRIO
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 20, 2026
5 PM · 7:30 PM
Legendary member of jazz’s piano pantheon
EDMAR CASTAÑEDA QUARTET
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2026
5:30 PM · 8 PM
Columbian harpist
recognized as one of the most original voices in contemporary Latin jazz
LINDA
MAY HAN OH TRIO
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2026
5:30 PM · 8 PM
Striking, rhythmically exhilarating jazz
CAMILLE THURMAN WITH THE DARRELL GREEN QUARTET
SUNDAY, JANUARY 24, 2027
5 PM · 7:30 PM
Tenor saxophone and highly inventive vocalist
JOHN PIZZARELLI PRESENTS “DEAR MR. BENNETT”
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2026
5:30 PM · 8 PM
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2026
5 PM · 7:30 PM
GRAMMY™-winning guitarist and vocalist celebrates iconic singer Tony Bennett
JULIUS RODRIGUEZ FROM THE BENCH TO THE THRONE
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2027
5:30 PM · 8 PM
American jazz pianist and drummer creates two trios in one evening
TYSHAWN SOREY TRIO
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2027
5 PM · 7:30 PM
Original works and reimagined American Songbook classics from Pulitzer Prize-winning multi-instrumentalist
DREAMERS’ CIRCUS
SATURDAY APRIL 10, 2027
5:30 PM · 8 PM
SUNDAY, APRIL 11, 2027
5 PM · 7:30 PM
The preeminent international band in Nordic folk and traditional music
GOITSE
SUNDAY, MARCH 14, 2027
5 PM · 7:30 PM
One of Ireland’s most dynamic and celebrated traditional ensembles
LAKECIA BENJAMIN
JAZZ MINI-FESTIVAL FRIDAY, MAY 14, 2027
5:30 PM · 8 PM
High-energy alto saxophonist blends jazz, funk, and R&B
CONCERTS @ THE JAI
WILDFLOWERS: KURT ELLING WITH CHRISTIAN SANDS
THURSDAY, APRIL 1, 2027
5:30 PM · 8 PM
Inventive GRAMMY™ Award-winning jazz vocalist and virtuosic jazz pianist
ENDEA OWENS & THE COOKOUT
THURSDAY, MAY 27, 2027
5:30 PM · 8 PM
Vibrant sextet led by GRAMMY™ , EMMY, Peabody Award-winning bassist
Home of La Jolla Music Society
Photo Credits: Cover: Y. Wang © Julia Wesely; P.3: Academy of St Martin in the Fields © Richard Lea-Hair, KODO courtesy of artists, L. Benjamin © Elizabeth Leitzell; P.4-5: Paramount Quartet © Ken Jacques, Meow Meow © Magnus Hastings, KODO courtesy of artists, A. McDonald © Allison Michael Orenstein; P.6-7: G. Montero © Anders Brogaard, E. Ax © Lisa Marie Mazzucco, S. Cho © Stephan Rabold, V. Olafsson © Ÿari Magg, Y. Wang © BBC Studios; P.8-9: N. Radulović © Misha Obradovic, Double Sens © Edourard Brane, Les Arts Florissants, W. Christie, P. Agnew © J. Gazeau, Academy of St Martin in the Fields © Matthew Johnson, C. Tao © Brantley Gutierrez, il Pomo d’Oro courtesy of artists, M. Spyres © Marco Borelli; P.10-11: J. Queyras, A. Tharaud © Marco Borggreve, H. Hahn © Chris Lee, M. Goerne © Marie Staggat, Y. Sunwoo © Roh Seung Hwan, J. Han courtesy of artist, D. Fung © Garibaldi, N. Sierra © Gregor Hohenberg; P.12-13: J. DiDonato, Time for Three © Shervin Lainez, CIRCA © Laura Manariti, V. Starikov © Lisa Marie Mazzuco, Kronos Quartet © Ali Karakas, J. Moran & The Harlem Hellfighters © Camille Blake; P.14-15: Poiesis Quartet © Lisa Marie Mazzucco, A. Wang courtesy of artist, L. Sternath © Peter Rigaud, Himari courtesy of artists, I. Yang © Sangwook Lee, L. Downs © Enrique Leyva, Naghash Ensemble © David Galstyan, I. Perlman © Drew Gurian, S. Jobarteh © Rob O’Connor; 16-17: The Hot Sardines © Shervin Lainez, W. Marsalis © Lawrence Sumulong, Hiromi & S. Clarke © Rick Swig, J. Moran © Bolade Banjo, ARTEMIS © John Abbot; 18-19: Black Grace © Duncan Cole, Mark Morris Dance Group © Richard Termine, NoGravity Theatre courtesy of artist, Alonzo King LINES Ballet © RJ Muna; P.20-21: Great Barrier Reef © National Geographic Image Collection, Frog © Guy Edwardes, Jellyfish courtesy of Anand Varma, Leopard © Steve Winter, Manual Cinema courtesy of artist, Magic Piano courtesy of artists, E. Park © Jesus Gutierrez; P.22-23: F. Hersch courtesy of artist, L. Oh courtesy of artist, E. Castañeda © Diana Bejarano, C. Thurman courtesy of artist, J. Pizzarelli courtesy of artist, J. Rodriguez © Attiba Jefferson, T. Sorrey © Jason Williams, Goitse courtesy of artists, K. Elling © Corey Dewald, C. Sands courtesy of artist, Dreamers’ Circus courtesy of artists, L. Benjamin © Elizabeth Leitzell, E. Owens © Lawrence Sumulong
LA JOLLA MUSIC SOCIETY
THE CONRAD PREBYS PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 7600 FAY AVENUE, LA JOLLA, CA 92037