Hear the Masterpieces Come Alive in Santa Barbara This Summer
Prepare to be enchanted by a meticulously curated lineup of concerts and events designed to redefine your musical experience. The academy's visionary leadership ensures every performance resonates with authenticity and passion.
A Glimpse into the Academy's Artistic Vision
The Music Academy of the West ushers in its summer festivities under the guidance of Executive Director Shauna Quill and Chief Artistic Director Nate Bachhuber. These dynamic leaders have crafted a program that not only celebrates tradition but also embraces innovation. Bachhuber, who assumed his role last year, has played a pivotal part in shaping this year's offerings, introducing fresh perspectives while honoring the academy's legacy.
An integral component of the preview event was a captivating rendition of Beethoven’s Cello Sonata No. 2 performed by cellist Miles Goosby. This performance exemplifies the academy's commitment to showcasing exceptional talent from both within and beyond its fellowship ranks.
Highlighting the Season's Premier Performances
Opening the season is the esteemed Takács String Quartet, marking their jubilant 50th anniversary with a concert at the historic Lobero Theatre on June 20. This event sets the tone for what promises to be an exhilarating eight weeks of musical exploration.
Innovative collaborations extend beyond traditional boundaries, inviting artists such as Stewart Copeland of The Police fame to join "PercussionFest" at the Granada Theatre. Additionally, mandolin virtuoso Chris Thile will grace the fundraising gala at the Montecito Club on July 11, further expanding the appeal of these events to diverse audiences.
Family-Oriented Celebrations of Iconic Scores
Families are invited to immerse themselves in cinematic magic as the festival orchestra performs John Williams’ legendary score for Jaws, celebrating its golden anniversary on June 21. For younger attendees, Prokofiev’s Peter and the Wolf offers bilingual storytelling at the Lobero on July 19, fostering a love for classical music across generations.
These inclusive initiatives underscore the academy's dedication to engaging communities through universally cherished narratives set against symphonic backdrops.
Orchestral Excellence Unfolds Throughout the Season
Summer Saturdays belong to the Academy Festival Orchestra (AFO), where emerging musicians collaborate with renowned conductors to deliver electrifying performances at the Granada Theatre. On June 28, Anthony Parnther leads Ravel’s Pictures at an Exhibition, igniting imaginations with its vivid orchestration.
Further highlights include David Danzmayr conducting Strauss’s Also sprach Zarathustra alongside a co-commissioned work by Andy Akiho on July 5, followed by an exploration of French and Argentinean compositions on July 12. The grand finale features Mahler’s Symphony No. 3 conducted by Miguel Harth-Bedoya, encapsulating the epic scope of orchestral achievement.
Vocal Splendor Takes Center Stage
Under the direction of John Churchwell and Sasha Cooke, the vocal program flourishes with opera productions like Mozart’s Don Giovanni, reimagined in the glitz of early Hollywood. Scheduled for the Granada on July 18 and 20, this staging brings timeless drama to life.
Beyond Boundaries, a groundbreaking new series, challenges conventional programming by presenting contemporary works alongside celebrated classics. Hosted at Hahn Hall, it provides a platform for living composers to share their voices with eager listeners.
Pianistic Genius Illuminates the Repertoire
Journey through Beethoven’s masterful sonatas with pianist Jeremy Denk during the Beethoven Plus Series at Hahn Hall. Known for his insightful interpretations, Denk invites audiences to reconsider familiar pieces through innovative lenses.
Bachhuber’s assertion that MAW 2025 promises transformative listening experiences holds true throughout the season. Each event contributes uniquely to an overall tapestry of sound that enriches cultural understanding and appreciation.