The Peninsula Music Festival (PMF) in Door County is set to captivate audiences with its 73rd annual symphony series, presenting a three-week season filled with world-class musicians and intriguing compositions. Under the direction of Rune Bergmann, this series will feature nine concerts showcasing renowned artists such as Dame Evelyn Glennie, Joyce Yang, and young talents like Luka Coetzee and Sterling Elliott. The festival promises an exploration of powerful musical narratives through classical pieces, including percussion performances, piano solos, and choral symphonies.
This year's lineup includes a particularly fascinating concert where percussion takes center stage. On August 19, acclaimed percussionist Dame Evelyn Glennie joins the PMF Orchestra for Vincent Ho’s "The Shaman" Concerto, a piece crafted specifically for her. This event marks one of the highlights among several others that bring together internationally recognized soloists and emerging stars.
In the opening weeks, pianist Joyce Yang graces the stage twice, performing Rachmaninoff's “Rhapsody on a Theme by Paganini” during the "American Dream" concert and Grieg’s Piano Concerto in the "Scandinavian Evening." These programs celebrate American and Scandinavian musical traditions respectively, blending iconic works from composers like Copland, Gershwin, Sousa, Nielsen, and Sibelius.
Young cellists also shine throughout the series. Luka Coetzee performs Schumann’s Cello Concerto in the "Drama of Brahms and Schumann," while Sterling Elliott delivers Dvorak’s Cello Concerto in the "New World" program alongside Dvorak’s famous Ninth Symphony. Adding further depth, the final concert features Mahler’s Second Symphony ("Resurrection") performed collaboratively with the Apollo Chorus of Chicago and vocalists Jacquelyn Wagner and Abigail Nims.
Beyond these main attractions, special events include guest appearances by violinist Dennis Kim and violist Joan DerHovsepian playing Mozart’s Sinfonia Concertante. Emerging conductors Stefano Boccacci and Ezra Calvino lead selected programs, ensuring fresh interpretations of traditional repertoire.
Audiences can expect an exhilarating journey through music history at each performance held at the Door Community Auditorium in Fish Creek. Tickets are available online or via phone, offering options suitable for various budgets. Through its vibrant programming, the PMF continues to inspire both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers alike.