La Jolla Music Society SummerFest 2026 Single Ticket Brochure

FEST 2026

JULY 31–AUGUST 29 |

SUMMER FEST 2026

VIOLIN

Benjamin Beilman

Owen Dalby

James Ehnes

Karen Gomyo*

Randall Goosby*

Njioma Chinyere Grevious

Kathryn Hatmaker

Stefan Jackiw

Erin Keefe

Ela Kodžas*

Tessa Lark

Yura Lee

Cho-Liang Lin

Aisslinn Nosky

Simone Porter

Blake Pouliot

Wesley Precourt*

Edson Scheid*

Arnaud Sussmann

Jeffrey Thayer

Stephen Waarts

Andrew Wan

Yeung

Rebecca Albers

Hsin-Yun Huang

Ayane Kozasa*

Teng Li

Matthew Lipman

Daniel McCarthy*

Dimitri Murrath* Paul Neubauer

Milena Pajaro-van de Stadt

Timothy Ridout*

Masumi Rostad

Jonathan Vinocour

Ani Aznavoorian*

Efe Baltacigil

Nina Lee

Jonathan Swensen Alisa Weilerstein Paul Wiancko BASS Doug Balliett Timothy Cobb Mark Dresser Samuel Hager Jeremy Kurtz-Harris

George Li

Pedja Mužijević*

HARPSICHORD

David Belkovski*

ORGAN

Ruben Valenzuela

LUTE

Alejandro Jenné*

FLUTE

Emi Ferguson

Brandon Patrick George*

Rose Lombardo

CLARINET

Mark Dover

Graeme Steele Johnson*

Yoonah Kim*

Ricardo Morales

Osmo Vänskä

John Bruce Yeh

OBOE

Claire Brazeau

Mekhi Gladden*

Thomas Adès

Barnatan Jonathan Biss

Jeremy Denk Zoltán Fejérvári

Henry Kramer

Sarah Skuster*

BASSOON

Monica Ellis

Eleni Katz

TRUMPET

Brandon Ridenour

TROMBONE

Eric Starr

TUBA

Aaron McCalla*

HORN

Stefan Dohr

Kevin Newton*

Kaylet Torrez

SAXOPHONE

Steven Banks*

PERCUSSION

Sidney Hopson

Steven Schick

VOICE

Jennifer Johnson Cano

Kiera Duffy*

Reginald Mobley*

Robin Tritschler

HARP

Julie Smith Phillips

ACCORDION

Radu Rățoi*‡

CONDUCTOR

Thomas Adès

Inon Barnatan

Stephanie Childress*

COMPOSER-IN-RESIDENCE

Paul Wiancko

ENSEMBLES

Imani Winds

Brandon Patrick George, flute; Mekhi Gladden, oboe;

Mark Dover, clarinet; Kevin Newton; horn;

Monica Ellis, bassoon

Sullivan Fortner Trio

Sullivan Fortner, piano; Tyrone Allen, bass;

Kayvon Gordon, drums

Brad Mehldau*

Ride into the Sun−The Music of Elliott Smith

Chris Thile*, Blake Mills*

Matt Chamberlain* & John Davis*

FARFY FOUNDATION FELLOWSHIP ENSEMBLES

Prometheus Quartet*†

Roger Shao, Anthony Chan, violins; Brian Jennings, viola; Wilson Vanderslice, cello

Kairos Piano Quartet*†

Anthony Ratinov, piano; Elli Choi, violin;

Ayano Nakamura, viola; Eliana Razzino Yang, cello

FILMMAKER-IN-RESIDENCE

Tristan Cook

*SummerFest debut

† Farfy Foundation

Fellowship Artist

‡ Young Concert Artists (YCA) Artist-in-Residence

About the cover art: Richard Allen Morris’ work Untitled (1999) reflects a career-long exploration of materiality, wit, and the physical properties of paint, reflecting joy and verve. Richard Allen Morris, Untitled, 1999. Acrylic on canvas, 12 x 9 in. (30.5 x 22.9 cm). Collection Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego, Museum purchase, Elizabeth W. Russell Foundation, 2004.77. © Richard Allen Morris, Pablo Mason.

Welcome to La Jolla SummerFest 2026

For forty years, SummerFest has been a place where great artists, adventurous programming, and a spirit of curiosity come together in a way that feels unique to San Diego. Over those four decades, the festival has built its own history—through unforgettable performances, enduring musical friendships, and a growing sense of community that continues to deepen with each season. This year, as we celebrate that milestone anniversary, it feels especially fitting to gather around the theme “Making History”.

This summer’s programs invite us to listen across time: to the moments, movements, and imaginations that shaped the music we love, and to the ways these works continue to speak to us now. Throughout the season, we’ll explore music that changed the course of history, music that reflects the world from which it emerged, and music that still feels urgent and revealing today. Some programs revisit pivotal artistic moments; others recover lost worlds, uncover unexpected connections, or cast familiar works in a new light. In a year that also marks the 250th anniversary of the United States, the season’s invitation to reflect on history feels especially timely.

We begin with The Incomplete History of the World in Ten Pieces, a journey across centuries featuring an all-star cast of musicians—an opening night that sets the tone for a season of curiosity, breadth, and discovery. The event is part of our Synergy Initiative, which continues to place music in imaginative dialogue with other disciplines. Our second Synergy program is one of the season’s most ambitious: a meeting of the genre-defying jazz legend Brad Mehldau, mandolin virtuoso Chris Thile, a host of special guests, and full string orchestra.

Our Midweek Masterworks offer immersive, intermissionfree concerts designed for deep listening, followed by a shared drink and conversation in the courtyard.

This summer, we are especially pleased to feature Paul Wiancko as our Composer-in-Residence. A cellist with the legendary Kronos Quartet and one of the most original and compelling compositional voices of our time, he feels beautifully aligned with a season devoted to the living, evolving nature of musical history.

One of the pleasures of SummerFest is the way it brings together artists from different generations, backgrounds, and musical worlds. Some have been part of the festival’s story for years; others are joining us for the first time this summer. That exchange—between old friends and new collaborators, between tradition and fresh perspective— feels very much in keeping with this season’s theme.

Thank you for being part of this special anniversary season. As we celebrate forty years of SummerFest, I hope you’ll join us for a summer of insight, celebration, and unforgettable music—and become part of the festival’s continuing story.

Inon Barnatan Music Director

SUMMERFEST CELEBRATES

40 YEARS OF MAKING MUSIC …

and has never sounded better!

21 Concerts · 100 Artists

More than 50 Learning & Engagement Events

Music Director Inon Barnatan brings the world’s best classical musicians to San Diego for four weeks of unparalleled musical experiences at SummerFest. This milestone season explores music shaped by history, and the moments that reshaped music itself. From iconic masterpieces to intimate JAI performances, bold premières, and inspired collaborations, SummerFest continues to make history.

This celebratory year includes many opportunities to peek behind the scenes at open rehearsals, to dive deeper into the music with intriguing lectures, and to meet the stellar artists who travel from across the world to bring SummerFest to life.

Many SummerFest events book fast— don’t wait to take your place as we make music history!

“ A gem of a chamber music festival.” —Wall Street Journal “ …The most expansive and ambitious season in the event’s history” —San Diego Union-Tribune

All evening concerts in The Baker-Baum Concert Hall start at 7 PM!

IS ON SALE NOW July 31 – August 29, 2026

SYNERGY INITIATIVE

The Synergy Initiative brings top creators of music, dance, spoken word, and visual arts to collaborate across their different art forms. This series, co-produced by Inon Barnatan and Clara Wu Tsai, offers a contemporary and fascinating spin on the classical experience, which inspires audiences in unexpected and powerful ways.

MIDWEEK MASTERWORKS

Wednesdays just got a lot more fun! These popular intermission-less concerts feature at least one of the “greatest hits” from the chamber music repertoire and include a complimentary glass of sparkling wine in the Wu Tsai QRT.yrd after the performance. Join us for a midweek cheers! Buy early for the best seats and lowest prices. Save 10% when you order a package of 3 or more concerts!

OPENING NIGHT: The Incomplete History of the World in Ten Pieces

Friday, July 31 | 7 PM

The Baker-Baum Concert Hall

This boundary-crossing opening night blends music, storytelling, and theatrical narration in a fast-moving journey through history. Join festival artists for a vivid time-travel adventure—from medieval chant to modern revolution— where each piece becomes a portal to a defining moment in the story of music.

VON BINGEN O Virtus Sapientiae

MORLEY It was a Lover and His Lass

VIVALDI Presto from The Four Seasons: Summer

MOZART Overture from Don Giovanni

BEETHOVEN Cavatina from String Quartet No. 13 in B-Flat Major, Op. 130

LISZT La Campanella

WAGNER Prelude from Tristan und Isolde

STRAVINSKY Sacrificial Dance from The Rite of Spring

SHOSTAKOVICH Adagio from Piano Trio No. 2 in E Minor, Op. 67

BERNSTEIN America from West Side Story for Piano Four Hands

PETER HEIDRICH Happy Birthday Variations

Opening Night Artists:

Reginald Mobley, countertenor; Alejandro Jenné, lute;

Inon Barnatan, George Li, pianos; Anthony Chan†, Ellie Choi†, Randall Goosby, Karen Gomyo, Stefan Jackiw, Brian Jennings†, Blake Pouliot, Roger Shao†, violins; Ayano Nakamura†, Masumi Rostad, violas; Sterling Elliott, Alisa Weilerstein, Eliana Razzino Yang†, cellos; Jeremy Kurtz-Harris, bass

PRE-CONCERT PARTY!

5:30 PM | Wu Tsai Qrt.yrd

All Opening Night ticket holders can fête 40 years of SummerFest in a complimentary pre-show reception featuring sparkling wine and a tantalizing assortment of hors d’oeuvres.

VIENNA 1900

Saturday, August 1 | 7 PM

The Baker-Baum Concert Hall

At the turn of the 20th century, Vienna stood at the very center of musical life, shaping the sound of an era while standing on the edge of profound change. This concert captures a city at a golden age and a world in transformation, tradition morphing into a new age.

J. STRAUSS Kaiser-Walzer, Op. 437 (arr. Schoenberg)

Rose Lombardo, flute; Yoonah Kim, clarinet

Randall Goosby, Elli Choi†, violins;

Dimitri Murrath, viola; Sterling Elliott, cello Inon Barnatan, piano

R. STRAUSS Violin Sonata, Op. 18

Stefan Jackiw, violin; George Li, piano

BERG Sieben Frühe Lieder (Seven Early Songs

Kiera Duffy, soprano; Inon Barnatan, piano

SCHOENBERG Verklärte Nacht (Transfigured Night)

Blake Pouliot, Karen Gomyo, violins;

Masumi Rostad, Dimitri Murrath, violas; Alisa Weilerstein, Sterling Elliott, cellos

PRELUDE

6 PM

The JAI Lecture by Kristi

WHAT IF?

Sunday, August 2 · 3 PM

The Baker-Baum Concert Hall

Pergolesi’s Stabat Mater—one of the most enduring sacred works ever written—was composed by a 26-yearold in the final months of his life. Taking that astonishing fact as its point of departure, this concert brings together masterpieces shaped by youth, urgency, and historical circumstance, inviting us to hear how indelible music can emerge in the shadow of time.

BOULANGER Two Pieces for Violin and Piano

Karen Gomyo, violin; Inon Barnatan, piano

ULLMANN String Quartet No. 3, Op. 46

Blake Pouliot, Stefan Jackiw, violins; Masumi Rostad, viola; Alisa Weilerstein; cello

GERSHWIN Transcriptions from Porgy and Bess (arr. Heifetz)

Randall Goosby, violin; George Li, piano

PERGOLESI Stabat Mater

Kiera Duffy, soprano; Reginald Mobley, countertenor; Stefan Jackiw, Karen Gomyo, Randall Goosby, Roger Shao†, violins; Dimitri Murrath, viola;

Sterling Elliott, cello; Timothy Cobb, bass; Ruben Valenzuela, organ

PRELUDE 2 PM

The JAI Lecture by Kristi

RESHAPING THE PAST

Wednesday, August 5 · 7 PM

The Baker-Baum Concert Hall

Musical history moves forward through dialogue with the past. From Stravinsky’s reimagining of baroque styles to Schubert’s epic Octet—written in the shadow of Beethoven—this program explores how composers absorb, reshape, and transform what came before, creating works that honor tradition while forging new paths.

STRAVINSKY Suite Italienne

Sterling Elliott, cello; Radu Rățoi‡, accordion

SCHUBERT Octet in F Major, D. 803

Andrew Wan, Karen Gomyo, violins; Milena Pajaro-van de Stadt, viola;

Alisa Weilerstein, cello; Timothy Cobb, bass; Ricardo Morales, clarinet;

Eleni Katz, bassoon; Stefan Dohr, horn

Following these intermission-less concerts, attendees are invited to the Wu Tsai QRT.yrd for a complimentary glass of sparkling wine!

EASTERN VISIONS

Friday, August 7 · 7 PM

The Baker-Baum Concert Hall

Encounters with Eastern music left a lasting mark on Western composers, from the sounds of gamelan heard by Debussy at the World Fair to Lou Harrison and John Cage’s lifelong fascination with Javanese and Indian sounds, culminating in a newly created chamber work based on Rimsky-Korsakov’s Scheherazade.

DEBUSSY Sonata for Flute, Viola and Harp

Rose Lombardo, flute; Matthew Lipman, viola;

Julie Smith Phillips, harp

HARRISON Varied Trio

Pedja Mužijević, piano; Blake Pouliot, violin;

Steven Schick, percussion

RAVEL Tzigane

Tessa Lark, violin; Inon Barnatan, piano

CAGE

Selected Sonatas for Prepared Piano

Pedja Mužijević, piano

RIMSKY-KORSAKOV/ Fantasy on Scheherazade

IAIN FARRINGTON Andrew Wan, Erin Keefe, violins;

Milena Pajaro-van de Stadt, viola;

Efe Baltacigil, cello; Sam Hager, bass;

Rose Lombardo, flute;

Graeme Steele Johnson, clarinet;

Stefan Dohr, horn;

Julie Smith Phillips, harp

MUSICAL PRELUDE 6 PM

The Baker-Baum Concert Hall

Performance by Prometheus Quartet †

ROOTS

Saturday, August 8 · 7 PM

The Baker-Baum Concert Hall

Feel the pulse of Eastern Europe in music drawn from village dances, folk songs, and centuries-old traditions. Composers channel the raw vitality of these sounds into works of sweeping drama and rhythmic fire— music that carries the spirit of the countryside onto the concert stage.

TAJČEVIĆ Seven Balkan Dances

Pedja Mužijević, piano

DVOŘÁK Piano Trio No. 4 in E Minor “Dumky”

Tessa Lark, violin; Efe Baltacigil, cello; Zoltán Fejérvári, piano

WEINBERG Rhapsody on Moldavian Themes, Op. 47

Tessa Lark, violin; Radu Rățoi‡, accordion

BARTÓK Divertimento for String Orchestra

Erin Keefe, Andrew Wan, Blake Pouliot, Wesley Precourt, Roger Shao†, Cherry Yeung, Anthony Chan†, Elli Choi†, Kathryn Hatmaker, violins; Matthew Lipman, Milena Pajaro-van de Stadt, Brian Jennings†, Ayano Nakamura†, violas; Efe Batacigil, Sterling Elliott, Wilson Vanderslice†, Eliana Razzino Yang†, cellos; Anthony Manzo, Sam Hager, basses

MUSICAL PRELUDE

6 PM

The Baker-Baum Concert Hall

Performance by Kairos Piano Quartet †

Wan

LOST AND FOUND

Sunday, August 9 · 3 PM

The Baker-Baum Concert Hall

Great music sometimes slips from view—unfinished, unpublished, or simply forgotten—until history rediscovers it.

From Chopin’s recently uncovered Waltz to Vaughan Williams’ nearly lost Piano Quintet, from a reconstructed gem by Mozart the lush Octet by Charles Martin Loeffler recently brought back to light at the Library of Congress, this program offers the rare chance to encounter rediscovered treasures.

J.S. BACH Chaconne in D Minor, BWV 1178

Passacaglia in C Minor, BWV 582

Radu Rățoi‡, accordion

CHOPIN Waltz in A Minor “Found in New York”

Henry Kramer, piano

VAUGHAN WILLIAMS Piano Quintet in C Minor

Henry Kramer, piano; Blake Pouliot, violin;

Milena Pajaro-van de Stadt, viola; Efe Baltacigil, cello; Anthony Manzo, bass

MOZART Horn Concerto No. 1 in D Major, K. 412/514

Stefan Dohr, horn; Roger Shao†, Anthony Chan†, violins;

Brian Jennings†, viola; Wilson Vanderslice†, cello

Anthony Manzo, bass

LOEFFLER Octet for Clarinets, Strings and Harp (arr. Johnson)

Graeme Steele Johnson, Osmo Vänskä, clarinets;

Erin Keefe, Andrew Wan, violins; Matthew Lipman, viola;

Sterling Elliott, cello; Anthony Manzo, bass; Julie Smith Phillips, harp

The Baker-Baum Concert Hall SATURDAY, AUGUST 8

AMERICAN LEGACY

Wednesday, August 12 · 7 PM

The Baker-Baum Concert Hall

What does it mean to make history in America? At the Library of Congress, Elizabeth Sprague Coolidge transformed a national institution into a catalyst for chamber music, commissioning and championing not only American composers but many of the greatest international voices of her time. This program reflects that expansive spirit—celebrating music shaped by bold patronage, artistic exchange, and a distinctly American belief in possibility.

PROKOFIEV String Quartet No. 1, Op. 50

Blake Pouliot, Arnaud Sussmann, violins; Ayane Kozasa, viola; Paul Wiancko, cello

POULENC Flute Sonata, FP 164

Emi Ferguson, flute; Zoltán Fejérvári, piano

SHORTER Terra Incognita Imani Winds

COPLAND Appalachian Spring

Tessa Lark, Blake Pouliot, Elli Choi†, Anthony Chan†, violins; Rebecca Albers, Ayano Nakamura†, violas;

Efe Baltacigil, Wilson Vanderslice†, cellos; Anthony Manzo, bass;

Brandon Patrick George, flute; Mark Dover, clarinet; Monica Ellis, bassoon; Henry Kramer, piano

Following these intermission-less concerts, attendees are invited to the Wu Tsai QRT.yrd for a complimentary glass of sparkling wine!

JAZZ @ The JAI SULLIVAN FORTNER TRIO

Thursday, August 13 · 5:30 PM & 8 PM

The JAI

Returning to SummerFest after last season’s electrifying collaboration with Cécile McLorin Salvant, Sullivan Fortner— one of today’s most celebrated jazz pianists and a recent recipient of the Gilmore Jazz Pianist Award— takes over The JAI with his trio, bassist Tyrone Allen and drummer Kayvon Gordon.

OUT OF THE SHADOWS

Friday, August 14 · 7 PM

The Baker-Baum Concert Hall

In the shadow of the First World War, composers faced a world irrevocably changed. From Debussy’s starkly ravishing two-piano piece and Bridge’s elegiac lament to Poulenc’s sardonically defiant wit, this program reveals how upheaval reshaped musical language—culminating in Korngold’s Suite for Left Hand, written for a war amputee and transforming loss into radiant virtuosity.

DEBUSSY En Blanc et Noir for Two Pianos

Inon Barnatan, Henry Kramer, pianos

BRIDGE Lament for Two Violas

Rebecca Albers, Ayane Kozasa, violas

POULENC Sextet for Piano and Winds, FP 100

Inon Barnatan, piano; Imani Winds

KORNGOLD Suite for Left Hand and Strings, Op. 23

Zoltán Fejérvári, piano; Arnaud Sussmann, Tessa Lark, violins; Paul Wiancko, cello

MUSICAL PRELUDE

6 PM

The Baker-Baum Concert Hall

Performance by Kairos Piano Quartet †

REHEARSAL 2 PM

The Baker-Baum Concert Hall

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12

THE COMPLETE

PART I

Saturday, August 15 · 7 PM

The Baker-Baum Concert Hall

A festival within the festival. Bach’s exhilarating Brandenburg Concertos bursting with color, virtuosity, and fearless invention—take center stage across two vibrant programs that celebrate the joy of collaboration. Alongside these Baroque landmarks, music by our Composer-in-Residence Paul Wiancko and our Ensemble-in-Residence, Imani Winds, brings fresh energy to the conversation, proving that the spirit of innovation Bach embodied is still very much alive.

J.S. BACH Brandenburg Concerto No.6 in B-Flat Major, BWV 1051

Daniel McCarthy, solo viola; Rebecca Albers, solo viola;

Coleman Itzkoff, Paul Wiancko, Eliana Razzino Yang†, cellos; Doug Baliett, bass; David Belkovski, harpsichord

J.S. BACH Brandenburg Concerto No. 3 in G Major, BWV 1048

Aisslinn Nosky, Edson Scheid, Ela Kodžas, violins;

Daniel McCarthy, Rebecca Albers, Ayane Kozasa, violas;

Coleman Itzkoff, Paul Wiancko, Eliana Razzino Yang†, cellos; Doug Balliet, bass; David Belkovski, harpsichord

PAUL WIANCKO Vox Petra

Ayane Kozasa, Rebecca Albers, violas; Coleman Itzkoff, Paul Wiancko, cellos

J.S. BACH Brandenburg Concerto No. 5 in D Major, BWV 1050

David Belkovski, solo harpsichord; Aisslinn Nosky, solo violin; Emi Ferguson, flute; Edson Scheid, violin; Daniel McCarthy, viola;

Coleman Itzkoff, cello; Doug Balliett, bass

Nosky

BRANDENBURGS

PART II

Sunday, August 16 · 3 PM

The Baker-Baum Concert Hall

Continue your journey through the Brandenburg concertos with a second night of thrilling invention and collaboration.

J.S. BACH Brandenburg Concerto No. 1 in F Major, BWV 1046

Aisslinn Nosky, Ela Kodžas, Edson Scheid, violins; Daniel McCarthy, viola; Coleman Itzkoff, cello; Doug Balliett, bass; David Belkovski, harpsichord; Claire Brazeau, Sarah Skuster, Mekhi Gladden, oboes; Monica Ellis, bassoon; Kaylet Torrez, Kevin Newton, horns

J.S. BACH Brandenburg Concerto No. 2 in F Major, BWV 1047

Aisslinn Nosky, Ela Kodžas, Edson Scheid, violins; Daniel McCarthy, viola; Coleman Itzkoff, cello; Doug Balliett, bass; David Belkovski, harpsichord; Brandon Ridenour, trumpet; Emi Ferguson, flute; Claire Brazeau, oboe

SHAWN OKPEBHOLO Selections from Rise

TAYLOR I Wish I Knew How It Would Feel to Be Free (arr. Mark Dover)

Imani Winds

J.S. BACH Brandenburg Concerto No. 4 in G Major, BWV 1049

Aisslinn Nosky, solo violin; Emi Ferguson, Brandon Patrick George, flutes; Ela Kodžas, Edson Scheid, violins; Daniel McCarthy, viola; Coleman Itzkoff, cello; Doug Balliet, bass; David Belkovski, harpsichord

TAKEOVER @ THE JAI with Paul Wiancko

Sunday, August 16 · 7 PM

The JAI

Cellist-composer Paul Wiancko—a member of the legendary Kronos Quartet—curates a takeover that puts creativity front and center. Part salon, part sonic lab, this intimate set with festival artists brings you up close to the energy of a musician actively making history now.

PAUL WIANCKO Cities of Air

Emi Ferguson, flute; Tessa Lark, Roger Shao†, violins; Ayane Kozasa, viola; Paul Wiancko, cello

ANGÉLICA NEGRÓN Marejada

Prometheus Quartet†

SALINA FISHER Mata Au

Tessa Lark, violin; Ayane Kozasa, viola; Paul Wiancko, cello

MESSIAEN Louange à l’Éternité de Jésus from Quatuor pour la fin du temps

Coleman Itzkoff, cello; Anthony Ratinov†, piano

PAUL WIANCKO Tiny Doors to Big Worlds

Tessa Lark, Elli Choi†, violins; Ayane Kozasa, viola; Coleman Itzkoff, Paul Wiancko, cellos

REMADE/REBORN

Wednesday, August 19 · 7 PM

The Baker-Baum Concert Hall

Music survives by transformation—and this program celebrates reinvention as a creative force. Thomas Adès reimagines Purcell before leading the U.S. première of a newly revised version of his miniature Concerto Conciso, and Brahms’ beloved Piano Quintet—famously transformed through multiple versions— closes the program in its final, towering incarnation.

PURCELL Four Songs (arr. Adès)

Jennifer Johnson Cano, mezzo-soprano; Thomas Adès, piano

THOMAS ADÈS Concerto Conciso U.S. PREMIÈRE

Inon Barnatan, piano; John Bruce Yeh, clarinet; Steven Banks, baritone saxophone; Brandon Ridenour, trumpet; Eric Starr, trombone; Aaron McCalla, tuba; Sidney Hopson, percussion; Simone Porter, Njioma Chinyere Grevious, Anthony Chan†, violins; Mark Dresser, bass; Thomas Adès, conductor

BRAHMS Piano Quintet in F Minor, Op. 34

Jeremy Denk, piano; Yura Lee, Njioma Chinyere Grevious, violins; Teng Li, viola; Jonathan Swensen, cello

Following these intermission-less concerts, attendees are invited to the Wu Tsai QRT.yrd for a complimentary glass of sparkling wine!

PRELUDE

6 PM

The JAI

Lecture by Tiffany Kuo

SUMMERFEST AT 40!

Friday, August 21 · 7 PM

The Baker-Baum Concert Hall

Past, present, and future share the stage in one jubilant night. Music Director Inon Barnatan joins festival favorite Jeremy Denk in a virtuosic opener, while former Music Director Cho-Liang Lin returns for legendary composer John Williams’ Quartet La Jolla written for SummerFest. A California Première commission looks ahead, before we bring the celebration home with the piece that closed the very first SummerFest concert.

LUTOSŁAWSKI Variations on a Theme by Paganini Inon Barnatan, Jeremy Denk, pianos

JOHN WILLIAMS Quartet La Jolla

Cho-Liang Lin, violin; Jay Campbell, cello; John Bruce Yeh, clarinet; Julie Smith Phillips, harp

STEVEN BANKS to be free CALIFORNIA PREMIÈRE

Jennifer Johnson Cano, mezzo-soprano; Rose Lombardo, flute;

Steven Banks, saxophone; Simone Porter, violin; Yura Lee, viola; Jay Campbell, cello; Jeremy Kurtz-Harris, bass; Jeremy Denk, piano

TCHAIKOVSKY Souvenir de Florence

Benjamin Beilman, Cho-Liang Lin, violins; Paul Neubauer, Teng Li, violas; Jonathan Swensen, Nina Lee, cellos

FREE

OPEN REHEARSAL

2 PM

The Baker-Baum Concert Hall THURSDAY, AUGUST 20

MUSICAL PRELUDE

6 PM

The Baker-Baum Concert Hall Performance by Prometheus Quartet †

Cho-Liang Lin

OLD COUNTRY, NEW AGE

Sunday, August 23 · 3 PM

The Baker-Baum Concert Hall

Windswept lyricism, razor-sharp wit, and sweeping grandeur— this is England in full color. From Vaughan Williams and Walton to Elgar’s epic Piano Quintet, the program captures a nation reinventing itself in the early 20th century. The evening also features Thomas Adès—today’s most celebrated living English composer—bringing the story thrillingly into the present.

VAUGHAN WILLIAMS On Wenlock Edge

Robin Tritschler, tenor; Jeremy Denk, piano;

Benjamin Beilman, Njioma Chinyere Grevious, violins; Teng Li, viola; Nina Lee, cello

ELGAR Piano Quintet in A Minor, Op. 84

Inon Barnatan, piano; James Ehnes, Stephen Waarts, violins; Timothy Ridout, viola; Jonathan Swensen, cello

WALTON Façade

Thomas Adès, Stephanie Childress, narrators & conductors; Rose Lombardo, flute; John Bruce Yeh, clarinet/bass clarinet; Brandon Ridenour, trumpet; Steven Banks, saxophone; Sidney Hopson, percussion; Jay Campbell, cello

PRELUDE 2 PM

The JAI Lecture by Tiffany Kuo

MIDWEEK MASTERWORKS

SCHUBERTIADE

Wednesday, August 26 · 7 PM

The Baker-Baum Concert Hall

Step inside the salons where Schubert’s music first came to life. This evening recreates the spirit of the original Schubertiades—intimate gatherings where friends shared new songs and chamber works at close range. Songs, chamber music, and the radiant Fantasy for Four Hands draw us into the world of 1820s Vienna, where this music was heard for the very first time.

SCHUBERT An die Musik, D.547

Ganymed, D.544

Die Forelle, D.550

Robin Tritschler, tenor; Jonathan Biss, piano

Fantasy in F Minor, D.940

Jonathan Biss, Inon Barnatan, pianos

Die Sterne D.939

Du bist die Ruh, D.776

Erlkönig, D.328

Robin Tritschler, tenor; Inon Barnatan, piano

String Quartet in C Minor, D.703

Stephen Waarts, Benjamin Beilman, violins; Hsin-Yun Huang, viola; Nina Lee, cello

Rondo in A Major for Violin and Strings, D.438

James Ehnes, solo violin; Owen Dalby, Njioma Chinyere Grevious, violins; Jonathan Vinocour, viola; Ani Aznavoorian, cello

PRELUDE

6 PM

The JAI

Lecture by Ara Guzelimian

Following these intermission-less concerts, attendees are invited to the Wu Tsai QRT.yrd for a complimentary glass of sparkling wine!

BRAD MEHLDAU

Ride into the Sun –The Music of Elliott Smith

featuring Chris Thile, Blake Mills, Matt Chamberlain & John Davis with USC Thornton Chamber Virtuosi, Dan Coleman, conductor

Thursday, August 27 ·7 PM Balboa Theatre

World-renowned pianist Brad Mehldau expands the language between genres with an homage to the late indie folk artist Elliott Smith, whose music inspired a generation of songwriters, joined by Chris Thile (mandolin/ vocal), Blake Mills (guitar/vocal), Matt Chamberlain (drums), and John Davis (bass). This lauded band is backed by the 17-piece USC Thornton Chamber Virtuosi on Mehldau’s rich cinematic arrangements at the historic Balboa Theatre.

CONVERSATION ACROSS CENTURIES

Friday, August 28 · 7 PM

The Baker-Baum Concert Hall

From Shakespeare-inspired song to Beethoven’s haunting “Ghost” Trio, composers engage the voices of the past. The evening culminates in Vaughan Williams’ luminous Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis—

a rare chance to hear this soaring work performed by a specially assembled large ensemble in all its radiant breadth, bringing together an all-star roster of SummerFest favorites including Stephen Warts, Benjamin Bellman, Jonathan Swenson, Nina Lee, and many more.

HAYDN She Never Told her Love

VAUGHAN WILLIAMS Orpheus with his Lute

QUILTER O Mistress Mine

RAUTAVAARA Shall I Compare Thee to a Summer’s Day?

Robin Tritschler, tenor; Inon Barnatan, piano

DALE Come Away, Death

Robin Tritschler, tenor; Hsin-Yun Huang, viola; Inon Barnatan, piano

BEETHOVEN Piano Trio No 5, Op. 70/1 “Ghost”

Jonathan Biss, piano; Benjamin Beilman, violin; Nina Lee, cello

HALVORSEN Sarabande con variazione on a Theme by Handel

Stephen Waarts, violin; Timothy Ridout, viola

VAUGHAN WILLIAMS Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis

SummerFest Chamber Orchestra; James Ehnes, concertmaster

The Baker-Baum Concert Hall

Performance by Kairos Piano Quartet †

James Ehnes MUSICAL PRELUDE 6 PM

FINALE: The Rule of Three

Saturday, August 29 · 7 PM

The Baker-Baum Concert Hall

For centuries, artists have understood the power of three—a principle woven throughout history in art, storytelling, and music. This exuberant finale embraces that timeless idea, pairing chamber works and concertos built around trios of soloists in a joyful, virtuosic celebration to close the season.

DAVID SERKIN LUDWIG Rule of Three

Owen Dalby, Njioma Chinyere Grevious, violins; Jonathan Vinocour, viola

MOZART Piano Concerto No. 7 for Three Pianos, K. 242

Jonathan Biss, Inon Barnatan, Anthony Ratinov†, pianos; SummerFest Chamber Orchestra

DVOŘÁK Terzetto

James Ehnes, Stephen Waarts, violins; Timothy Ridout, viola

OLLI MUSTONEN Triple Concerto for Three Violins and Chamber Orchestra

James Ehnes, Stephen Waarts, Simone Porter, violins; SummerFest Chamber Orchestra; Inon Barnatan, conductor

BEYOND THE STAGE LEARNING & ENGAGEMENT ACTIVITIES

FREE Activities! Registration opens Monday, June 15.

OPEN REHEARSALS

Go behind the scenes to see the intricate rehearsal process that goes into every SummerFest performance, and stay afterward to speak with the artists during post-rehearsal Q&As.

The Baker-Baum Concert Hall. No RSVP required.

COACHING WORKSHOPS

ENCOUNTERS

Observe our Farfy Foundation Fellowship Artists as they participate in a series of master classes conducted by world-class artists from the SummerFest roster.

The JAI. No RSVP required.

These free afternoon events include fascinating lectures, discussions, and performances. Encounters share diverse perspectives and provide insights into how music is created, influenced, interpreted, and performed.

The Baker-Baum Concert Hall or The JAI. RSVP required.

LISTENING LOUNGES—NEW THIS YEAR!

PRELUDES

Expand how you hear music with this guided listening series hosted by Michael Gerdes. Each session studies a single piece from an upcoming concert by examining form and comparing interpretations. Learn to listen the way you might taste fine wine: attentively, thoughtfully, and with a growing vocabulary.

The Atkinson Room. RSVP required.

Gain historical and musical insights from esteemed scholars in fascinating lectures and discussions. Musical Preludes include performances by Farfy Foundation Fellowship Artists and the Young Concert Artists (YCA) Artist-in-Residence.

Musical Preludes are held in The Baker-Baum Concert Hall.

All other Preludes are held in The JAI. Open to ticket holders only.

See the SummerFest Calendar on pages 30−31 at the back of this brochure for Learning & Engagement event dates and times. Details on all events, including participating artists, presenters, and reservations will be available at TheConrad.org Monday, June 15.

SUMMERFEST 2026 FARFY FOUNDATION FELLOWSHIP ARTISTS

For more than 35 years, students from the country’s leading music programs have participated in one of SummerFest’s longest traditions—the Fellowship Artist program. Thanks to generous support from the Farfy Foundation, this program continues to thrive. Farfy Foundation Fellowship Artists are selected by a panel of seasoned professional musicians, and represent some of the most exciting talent emerging in classical music. Many of the program’s alumni have gone on to major orchestras and prestigious international competitions and awards, and often return to the SummerFest roster in subsequent years, to the delight of audiences.

We are proud to welcome these eight talented musicians as our SummerFest 2026 Farfy Foundation Fellowship Artists.

QUARTET

KAIROS PIANO QUARTET

Anthony Ratinov, piano; Elli Choi, violin; Ayano Nakamura, viola; Eliana Razzino Yang, cello; PROMETHEUS

Roger Shao, Anthony Chan, violins; Brian Jennings, viola; Wilson Vanderslice, cello

Enhance Your Concert Experience

Make your visit to The Conrad one to remember— start planning your perfect SummerFest experience by adding one (or more!) of these options to elevate your evening.

NEW! SUMMERFEST PREVIEW

Wednesday, July 29 | 6 PM · The JAI

Artistic Director Leah Rosenthal and Music Director Inon Barnatan chat about what to expect in this milestone 40th Anniversary Festival. Learn how the festival themes, repertoire, and artists come together in Inon’s unparalleled vision. Complimentary dessert reception follows. RSVP required.

OPENING NIGHT PRE-CONCERT PARTY!

Friday, July 31 | 5:30 PM · Wu Tsai QRT.yrd

Opening Night ticket holders can fête 40 years of SummerFest in the Wu Tsai QRT.yrd with a complimentary pre-show reception. Ticket required to the July 31 concert.

Doug Balliett

GO BEHIND THE SCENES

Attend a free Open Rehearsal, Lecture, or Coaching Workshop to discover what happens before the performers take the stage.

WEDNESDAY NIGHT CHEERS

Keep the evening going! Following Midweek Masterworks intermission-less concerts, attendees can enjoy a complimentary glass of sparkling wine after the concert and mingle with the musicians!

FREE PRE-CONCERT PERFORMANCES

Arrive early to enjoy Musical Preludes by our Farfy Foundation Fellowship Artists at select concerts.

PRELUDE HAPPY HOURS

Sip, savor, and soak up the sunshine in the Wu Tsai QRT.yrd with a specially priced beverage before the music begins.

See you at these events this summer!

Signup for our email list at TheConrad.org and follow us on social media to stay up-to-date on all happenings during SummerFest. ljmusicsociety

La Jolla Music Society

PACKAGES AND INDIVIDUAL TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

For the best SummerFest experience, enjoy multiple concerts!

Save 10% with our package options.

SummerFest Premier Package

The best seating locations in The Baker-Baum Concert Hall are now the premium GOLD LEVEL . All Premier Subscribers will enjoy ONE ADDITIONAL CONCERT this summer.

Premier Perks

· See all 17 concerts in The Baker-Baum Concert Hall including the coveted Opening Night and Finale

· Keep your same seats year after year

· Save 10% on tickets

· Receive an invitation to an exclusive, closed dress rehearsal

GOLD Level: $1,675

A Level: $1,584

B Level: $1,387

SummerFest Flex Package

Secure the best seats in a package before single tickets go on sale. Choose any six or more concerts in either The Baker-Baum Concert Hall or The JAI.

Flex Perks

· Flexibility—choose the six concerts you want most!

· Save 10% on tickets

· Receive an invitation to an exclusive, closed dress rehearsal

· Flex Package prices vary based on concert and seat selection.

Flex packages are available in all price levels. Your price will vary based on your concert and seating zone.

Tickets for Ride into the Sun at the Balboa Theare are not eligible for inclusion in the Flex package, but tickets may be added on after 6 other concerts have been selected. Order online or by calling the Box Office. Flex packages are not renewable.

· Online: Order a package or individual tickets online at TheConrad.org.

· Phone: Call 858.459.3728 for assistance from our friendly Box Office staff.

· Window: Visit our Box Office at 7600 Fay Avenue, La Jolla, CA 92037 Mon-Fri from 10 AM-6 PM.

LA JOLLA MUSIC SOCIETY

ANNIVERSARY GALA

Saturday, August 22, 2026

Gala Chairs

Lise Wilson & Steve Strauss

Festival Founding Sponsors

Brenda Baker and Steve Baum

Synergy Initiative Producers

Inon Barnatan

Clara Wu Tsai

Festival Sponsors

Judith Bachner and Eric Lasley

Benjamin Brand and Shara Williams

Brenda Baker and Steve Baum*

Jeff Barnouw

Jasna and David Belanich

Raffaella Belanich*

Mary Ann Beyster

Abdul Bitar

Robert Black

Karen and Jim Brailean

Eleanor Charlton*

Raymond Chinn

Mary Ellen Clark*

Julie and Bert Cornelison*

Martha and Ed Dennis

Jendy Dennis

Brian Devine

Barbara Enberg

Pam and Hal Fuson

Elaine Galinson and Herbert Solomon*

Buzz and Peg Gitelson

Lisa Braun-Glazer and Jeff Glazer

Brenda and Michael Goldbaum

Margaret Stevens Grossman and Michael Grossman

Pati Heestand

John Hesselink

Irwin Jacobs*

Theresa Jarvis

Helen and Keith Kim*

Angelina and Fred Kleinbub*

Dorothea Laub*

Vivian Lim and Joseph Wong*

Christine and Charles Lo

Diana and Eli Lombrozo

Barbara Loonin

Kathleen and Ken Lundgren

SummerFest Music Director

Sponsor

Marge Schmale

Nancy Linke Patton

SummerFest Gala Chairs

Lise Wilson and Steve Strauss

Arlene and Louis Navias

Nancy Linke Patton and Rip Patton

Peggy and Peter Preuss

Tom Rasmussen and Clayton Lewis

Sylvia and Steve Ré

Jaqueline and Jean-Luc Robert*

Cassidy Robins

Stacy and Don Rosenberg

Leah Rosenthal and Matthew Geaman

Leigh P. Ryan

Sheryl and Bob Scarano

Clifford Schireson and John Venekamp

Marge and Neal Schmale

Maureen Shiftan

Karen and Kit Sickels*

Robert Singer

Susan and Gerald Slavet

Diane and DJ Smith

Annie So

Jeanette Stevens

Gloria and Rodney Stone

Elizabeth Taft

Haeyoung Kong Tang*

Debra Turner*

Susan and Richard Ulevitch

Sue and Peter Wagener*

Liqun Wang and Marco Londei*

Abby and Ray Weiss

Lise Wilson and Steve Strauss

Dolly and Victor Woo

Clara Wu Tsai

Anna and Edward Yeung

Bebe and Marvin Zigman

Anonymous

*Pillars member listing as of April 2026

SEASON SPONSORS

Elaine and Doug Muchmore

SUMMERFEST 2026

Calendar of Events

2 SUNDAY

PRELUDE | 2 PM · The JAI

Lecture by Kristi Brown-Montesano WHAT IF? | 3 PM

3 MONDAY

LISTENING LOUNGE with Michael Gerdes | 1 PM

The Atkinson Room

9 SUNDAY

PRELUDE | 2 PM · The JAI

Lecture by Patrick Castillo

LOST AND FOUND | 3 PM

16 SUNDAY

THE COMPLETE BRANDENBURGS: Part II | 3 PM

TAKEOVER @ THE JAI with Paul Wiancko| 7 PM The JAI

23 SUNDAY

PRELUDE | 2 PM · The JAI

Lecture by Tiffany Kuo

OLD COUNTRY, NEW AGE | 3 PM

10 MONDAY

LISTENING LOUNGE with Michael Gerdes | 1 PM

The Atkinson Room

17 MONDAY

LISTENING LOUNGE with Michael Gerdes | 1 PM The Atkinson Room

4 TUESDAY

COACHING WORKSHOPS | 10 AM–12 PM The JAI

ENCOUNTER | 2 PM

SummerFest Community Orchestra Reading Session

JULY 29 WEDNESDAY

SUMMERFEST PREVIEW | 6 PM · The JAI

Interview with Inon Barnatan hosted by Leah Rosenthal

24 MONDAY

LISTENING LOUNGE with Michael Gerdes | 1 PM The Atkinson Room

11 TUESDAY

COACHING WORKSHOPS | 10 AM–12 PM · The JAI

ENCOUNTER | 2 PM

Unmuting Masterworks at the Evolving Keyboard with Angie Zhang

18 TUESDAY

ENCOUNTER | 2 PM

Farfy Foundation Fellowship Artist Spotlight I

5 WEDNESDAY

COACHING WORKSHOPS | 10 AM–12 PM The JAI

MUSICAL PRELUDE | 6 PM

Performance by Radu Rățoi‡

RESHAPING THE PAST | 7 PM

Midweek Masterworks

12 WEDNESDAY

COACHING WORKSHOPS | 10 AM–12 PM The JAI

OPEN REHEARSAL | 2 PM

KORNGOLD’s Suite for Left Hand and Strings, Op. 23

PRELUDE | 6 PM · The JAI|Lecture by Patrick Castillo

AMERICAN LEGACY | 7 PM | Midweek Masterworks

19 WEDNESDAY

COACHING WORKSHOPS | 10 AM–12 PM · The JAI

PRELUDE | 6 PM · The JAI

Lecture by Tiffany Kuo

REMADE/REBORN | 7 PM

Midweek Masterworks

25 TUESDAY

ENCOUNTER | 2 PM

Farfy Foundation Fellowship Artist Spotlight II

26 WEDNESDAY

COACHING WORKSHOPS | 10 AM–12 PM The JAI

PRELUDE | 6 PM · The JAI

Lecture by Ara Guzelimian

SCHUBERTIADE | 7 PM

Midweek Masterworks

JULY 30 THURSDAY JULY 31 FRIDAY

PRE-CONCERT PARTY | 5:30 PM

Free for Opening Night ticket holders

OPENING NIGHT: The Incomplete History of the World in Ten Pieces | 7 PM

6 THURSDAY

COACHING WORKSHOPS | 10 AM–12 PM The JAI

13 THURSDAY

COACHING WORKSHOPS | 10 AM–12 PM · The JAI

JAZZ @ THE JAI

SULLIVAN FORTNER TRIO | 5:30 PM & 8 PM

The JAI

20 THURSDAY

COACHING WORKSHOPS | 10 AM–12 PM · The JAI

OPEN REHEARSAL | 2 PM

TCHAIKOVSKY’s Souvenir de Florence

27 THURSDAY

COACHING WORKSHOPS | 10 AM–12 PM · The JAI

ENCOUNTER | 2 PM · The JAI

Remembrance of Things Past with Ara Guzelimian

BRAD MEHLDAU: Ride into the Sun | 7 PM Balboa Theatre

7 FRIDAY

MUSICAL PRELUDE | 6 PM

Performance by Prometheus Quartet†

EASTERN VISIONS | 7 PM

14 FRIDAY

MUSICAL PRELUDE | 6 PM

Performance by Kairos Piano Quartet† OUT OF THE SHADOWS | 7 PM

21 FRIDAY

MUSICAL PRELUDE | 6 PM

Performance by Prometheus Quartet†

SUMMERFEST AT 40! | 7 PM

28 FRIDAY

MUSICAL PRELUDE | 6 PM

Performance by Kairos Piano Quartet†

CONVERSATION ACROSS CENTURIES | 7 PM

AUGUST 1 SATURDAY

PRELUDE | 6 PM · The JAI

Lecture by Kristi Brown-Montesano

VIENNA 1900 | 7 PM

8 SATURDAY

OPEN REHEARSAL | 2 PM

VAUGHAN WILLIAMS’ Piano Quintet in C Minor

MUSICAL PRELUDE | 6 PM

Performance by Kairos Piano Quartet†

ROOTS | 7 PM

15 SATURDAY

PRELUDE | 6 PM · The JAI

Interview with Inon Barnatan hosted by Leah Rosenthal

THE COMPLETE BRANDENBURGS: Part I | 7 PM

22 SATURDAY

OPEN REHEARSAL | 10:30 AM

ELGAR’s Piano Quintet in A Minor , Op. 84

SUMMERFEST 40TH ANNIVERSARY GALA

5 PM

29 SATURDAY

FINALE: Rule of Three | 7 PM SYNERGY SERIES

MUSICAL PRELUDE | 6 PM

Performance by Prometheus Quartet†

Keep an eye out for the SummerFest Learning & Engagement Activities Guide, which will include detailed descriptions and a full schedule for all events. Registration opens for these free events on Monday, June 15 at TheConrad.org. Click here to purchase tickets

Pg.13: Imani Winds © Titilayo Ayangade; Pg.14: S. Fortner Trio © Mark Sheldon; Pg.15: Z. Fejervari courtesy of artist; Pg.16: A. Nosky © Matthew Marigold; Pg.17: E. Ferguson © Fay Fox; Pg.18: P. Wiancko © Peter Frank Edwards; Pg.19: J. Johnson Cano courtesy of artist, J. Denk © Josh Goleman; Pg.20: C. Lin © Sophie Zhai; Pg.21: S. Banks © Chris Lee; Pg.22: J. Biss © Robin Herrod; Pg.23: B. Mehldau © Yoshika Horita, C. Thile © Josh Goleman; Pg.24: J. Ehnes © Benjamin Ealovega; Pg.25: SummerFest Chamber Orchestra © Ken Jacques; Pg.26−27: Y. Yoon © Ken Jacques; Pg.27: Prometheus Quartet © Marleen Annema, A. Ratinov courtesy of artist, E. Choi courtesy of artist, A. Nakamura courtesy of artist, E. Yang courtesy of artist; Pg. 28-29: N. Grievous © Ken Jacques, Balourdet Quartet © Ken Jacques,. Happy Hour Couple © Jamie Dixx, SummerFest Ophen Rehearsal © Sam Zausch, Giuseppe’s servers © Jamie Dixx, L. Rosenthal, I. Barnatan © Ken Jacques, QRT yrd Toast © Jamie Dixx, N. Bendix-Balgley, S. Jackiw, I. Barnatan, A. Weilerstein, T. Li © Ken Jacques; Pg.30-31: Concert Hall Ovation, Concert Goers, B. Pouliot, I. Barnatan © Ken Jacques, QRT.yrd Toast © Jamie Dixx; BACK COVER: M. Rostad courtesy of artist, M. Ellis courtesy of artist

The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center 7600 Fay Avenue, La Jolla,

SUMMERFEST TICKETS ON SALE NOW

July 31—August 29, 2026

Osmo Vänskä

John Bruce Yeh

Stephanie Childress

Brandon Patrick George

Monica Ellis

Reginald Mobley

Brad Mehldau

Chris Thile