San Diego's premier classical music event, the Mainly Mozart All-Star Orchestra Festival, will return in June 2025 with a remarkable lineup featuring a world-first performance of Mozart's recently discovered Serenade in C Major. Under the direction of Maestro Michael Francis, the festival will showcase musicians from 30 top orchestras across the United States and Canada, offering audiences a rare opportunity to experience extraordinary musical talent.
The festival's opening performance on June 18 at the Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center will highlight the newly discovered Serenade, composed when Mozart was between 10 and 13 years old. This historic piece, found in a German library in September 2024, represents a significant musicological discovery that provides insight into the young composer's early genius.
Each of the six concerts will feature a diverse program spanning multiple classical periods, including works by Beethoven, Strauss, Bach, and Vivaldi. The performances will showcase exceptional soloists such as pianist Joyce Yang, violinist Noah Bendix-Balgley, and clarinetist Boris Allakhverdyan, who will present complex and emotionally rich compositions.
The festival will take place at two venues: the Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center and UC San Diego's Epstein Family Amphitheater. The Epstein venue offers a unique outdoor experience, allowing attendees to bring picnics and enjoy music under the stars, with performances complemented by youth orchestra ensembles.
A notable aspect of the festival is its commitment to presenting a wide range of classical music, from Baroque masterpieces like Bach's Brandenburg Concertos to modern interpretations such as Noah Bendix-Balgley's Klezmer Concerto. This approach demonstrates the festival's dedication to celebrating musical diversity and innovation.
With single ticket prices ranging from $25 to $149 and various package options available, the Mainly Mozart All-Star Orchestra Festival offers accessible opportunities for music enthusiasts to experience world-class orchestral performances. The event not only provides entertainment but also contributes to preserving and promoting classical music's rich cultural heritage.
