Composer and musician Kaki King is considered one of the world’s greatest living guitarists, known both for her technical mastery and for her constant quest to push the boundaries of the instrument. Hailed by Rolling Stone as “a genre unto herself,” Kaki has released nine albums and toured extensively, presenting in such prestigious arts centers as the Kennedy Center, MoMA, LACMA, The Met and Smithsonian Design Museum. She has created music for numerous film and TV soundtracks, including August Rush and Into the Wild, for which received a Golden Globe nomination for Best Original Score.

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Kaki King

The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center

Three renowned visionary artists of the next generation combine talents in this eclectic new piano trio, Junction. Violinist Stefan Jackiw, recognized for musicianship that combines poetry and purity with an impeccable technique, returns with pianist Conrad Tao and cellist Jay Campbell. Tao, who appears worldwide as a pianist and composer, has been dubbed a musician of “probing intellect and open-hearted vision” by the New York Times. Approaching both old and new works with the same curiosity and emotional commitment, Campbell has been called “electrifying” by the New York Times. Recent concerts of the trio have included performances at Washington Performing Arts, Portland Ovations and the Royal Conservatory in Toronto.

Junction Trio

Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center

Under Louis Robitaille’s artistic direction, in collaboration with stage director Eric Jean and 14 dazzling dancers, three international choreographers—Andonis Foniadakis, Annabelle Lopez Ochoa, and Ihsan Rustem—evoke in “five seasons” the grand cycles of existence, as captured in the music and poems of Leonard Cohen. The revered torch singer’s words find new expression through dance in this stylish, sexy, and innovative program, which received Cohen’s blessing before he passed.

Ballets Jazz Montréal

San Diego Civic Theatre

Prizewinner at the XV International Tchaikovsky Competition and SONY Classical exclusive artist, Pablo Ferrández is hailed as a “new cello genius” (Le Figaro). A captivating performer, “Ferrández has the lot: technique, mettle, spirit, authority as a soloist, expressivity and charm” (El Pais).
He has turned into a cello phenomenon and one of the most in-demand instrumentalists of his generation.

Pablo Ferrández, cello

Our inaugural Jazz @ The JAI Guest Curator, legendary award-winning saxophonist Charles McPherson, and John Beasley, two-time GRAMMY winner, pianist, and composer, curate a program from Duke Ellington through the eras of jazz up to what’s happening now. John Beasley is joined by a roster of rising star jazz artists.

Charles & Friends: John Beasley and the Next Generation

A bold, compelling, South Korean virtuoso, at home on both classical and electric guitar, a champion of cutting-edge composers worldwide. Praised by The Washington Post for her “mesmerizing” and “stirring” performances, JIJI is an exciting guitarist known for her virtuosity and command of diverse repertoire. Her concert programs range from traditional and contemporary classical to free improvisation.

JIJI, guitar

Terry Virts retired from the space program after having achieved nearly everything he ever dreamed possible, including serving in the US Air Force as an F-16 fighter and test pilot, piloting the Space Shuttle Endeavour, serving as Commander for the International Space Station, and conducting three spacewalks during a 200-day mission in 2014 and 2015.

Terry Virts

Born in Paris to Chinese parents, Bruce Liu grew up in Montreal, and took the classical music world by storm in 2021 when he won the First Prize at the 18th Chopin International Piano Competition in Warsaw. Performances around the globe followed, as well as an exclusive recording contract with Deutsche Grammophon.

Bruce Liu, piano

Venezuelan joropo maestro Larry Bellorín and GRAMMY-nominated bluegrass and
oldtime star Joe Troop from North Carolina are two virtuosic multi-instrumentalists
who fuse their respective Venezuelan and Appalachian folk traditions on the harp,
banjo, cuatro, fiddle, upright bass, guitar, and maracas to prove that music has
no borders. Their bilingual program in English and Spanish includes storytelling,
humor, and singalongs for a unique evening you won’t soon forget.

Larry & Joe

MacArthur Fellow and GRAMMY Award-winning mandolinist, singer, songwriter Chris Thile, whom the Guardian calls “that rare being: an all-round musician who can settle into any style, from bluegrass to classical,” and NPR calls a “genre-defying musical genius,” is a founding member of the critically acclaimed bands Punch Brothers and Nickel Creek. For four years, Thile hosted public radio favorite Live from Here with Chris Thile (formerly known as A Prairie Home Companion). With his broad outlook, Thile creates a distinctly American canon and a new musical aesthetic for performers and audiences alike, giving the listener ”“one joyous arc, with the linear melody and vertical harmony blurring into a single web of gossamer beauty” (New York Times).

Chris Thile

Our jazz Guest Curator Charles McPherson’s New York band performs all over the world and is acclaimed by audiences everywhere. Now the internationally renowned legend brings the best jazz musicians on the scene together for two intimate shows in The JAI, celebrating their new CD release.

The Charles McPherson Quintet

An evening of cutting-edge ballet is presented in Pointeworks’ inaugural performance. Five ChoreograpHERs, five voices, a captivating world premiere by Reka Gyulai, and the first time San Diego audiences will experience the thrilling works of Heather Nichols, Melody Mennite, and Caili Quan. Experience this female-led program celebrating innovative women across creative fields including choreography, music, design, and visual art—each work as distinct and unique as each ChoreograpHER. Featuring the dynamic cast of Pointeworks artists, comprised of international dancers of principal and soloist careers from Argentina, Brazil, New Zealand, Japan, and across the USA.

Pointeworks Ballet

Expect a dazzling, inspiring trip through the PMJ Universe – a place where modern-day earworms and iconic pop hits alike are reimagined in classic genres like 1920s jazz, swing, doo-wop, and Motown – and brought to life by a cast of some of the world’s best singers, dancers, and instrumentalists. It’s a cross between The Great Gatsby and Sinatra at the Sands with a dash of Back to the Future.

Postmodern Jukebox - The '10' Tour

Lebanon Opera House

Join us for an unforgettable Opening Night at the La Jolla Music Society on Friday, July 26, 2024, at 7:30 PM. The evening, titled "A Deal with the Devil," promises to be a mesmerizing experience held at the prestigious Baker-Baum Concert Hall. This event marks the beginning of our SYNERGY SERIES, setting the stage for a season of unparalleled performances.

The highlight of the night is the captivating production of Stravinsky's "The Soldier’s Tale," a classic narrative of a soldier's fateful agreement with the devil. This timeless story is reenvisioned through an electrifying new production under the baton of the renowned conductor Thomas Adès. The performance will feature an innovative blend of hand-drawn animation, live puppetry, and compelling storytelling, brought to life by the groundbreaking talents of The Paper Cinema. With Nicholas Rawling leading as the illustrator and artistic director, and Chris Reed as the musical director, the evening is set to be a magical journey into a world of devilish delights.

The musical program also includes a selection of pieces that complement the theme of the night, featuring world-class musicians. Inon Barnatan will perform Liszt's "Mephisto Waltz No.1, S.514" on the piano, setting the tone with its devilish charm. The evening will also showcase Tartini's "Sonata in G Minor for Violin and Continuo The Devil’s Trill," with Augustin Hadelich on violin, Inon Barnatan on harpsichord, and a to-be-announced cellist, adding a touch of eerie elegance. Paganini's "Caprice No. 24 in A Minor" will further enchant the audience with Augustin Hadelich returning to the violin.

The ensemble for "The Soldier’s Tale" includes a talented lineup: Thomas Adès as conductor, a to-be-determined actor, Alexi Kenney on violin, Mark Simpson on clarinet, Eleni Katz on bassoon, Chris Coletti on cornet, James Miller on trombone, Michael Yeung on percussion, and Anthony Manzo on bass.

Prepare to be spellbound by an evening of musical storytelling that explores the allure and consequences of a deal with the devil. This opening night is not just a concert but an immersive experience that promises to leave you captivated. Join us at the La Jolla Music Society for a night that will be talked about for years to come.

Opening Night: A Deal with the Devil

Join us on Saturday, July 27, 2024, at 7:30 PM for an extraordinary evening with the La Jolla Music Society at The Baker-Baum Concert Hall. The event, titled "Danse Macabre," promises a night filled with haunting melodies, mystical dance, and an unforgettable tapestry of music that bridges the ethereal with the deeply moving.

The program features a diverse range of compositions, starting with Ysaÿe's Violin Sonata No. 2 in A Minor "Obsession," performed by the virtuoso Augustin Hadelich. Experience the intense narratives of Ravel's works and the whimsical charm of Martin Butler's Roald Dahl-inspired "Dirty Beasts," with a cast of talented musicians including Inon Barnatan (piano), Rose Lombardo (flute/piccolo), and many more.

A highlight of the evening will be the US Premiere of Thomas Adès' "Catch," showcasing the talents of Mark Simpson (clarinet), Alexi Kenney (violin), Jay Campbell (cello), and Thomas Adès himself on piano. The program also includes Saint-Saëns' iconic "Danse Macabre for Violin and Piano, Op. 40," bringing to life the playful yet haunting themes of the night.

The evening culminates with Schubert's profound "String Quartet in D Minor, D. 810 Death and the Maiden," performed by an ensemble of exceptional musicians including Andrew Wan and Tessa Lark on violins, Teng Li on viola, and Jonathan Swensen on cello.

Don't miss this mesmerizing journey through music that oscillates between the playful and the profound, making "Danse Macabre" a night to remember.

Danse Macabre

Janáček’s “Kreutzer Sonata” Quartet, inspired by Tolstoy’s tale of jealousy and marital discord set against the backdrop of Beethoven’s Kreutzer Sonata, pairs with Composer-in-Residence Thomas Adès. Adès performs his evocative The Tempest suite alongside these deeply passionate works.

Passions and Storms

Amadeus comes alive as excerpts from Peter Shaffer’s iconic play are paired with Mozart’s sublime “Gran Partita,” blending dramatic readings with ethereal music for a captivating portrayal of Mozart’s genius.

Midweek Masterworks: Amadeus

This “takeover” concert, curated by renowned composer Thomas Adès, showcases him as composer, teacher, pianist, and conductor, and includes the U.S. premiere of “Forgotten Dances” with international guitar sensation Sean Shibe.

Takeover @ The Baker-Baum

Join us for an enchanting evening with the La Jolla Music Society as we present "Baroque Fantasia" on Friday, August 2, 2024, at 7:30 PM in the prestigious Baker-Baum Concert Hall. This unique concert is a celebration of the Baroque era, showcasing its most imaginative and whimsical works that have captivated audiences for centuries.

"Baroque Fantasia" features a carefully curated selection of compositions that embody the essence of storytelling through music. The program includes Telemann's "Don Quixote Suite" and Purcell's excerpts from "The Fairy Queen," both of which are masterpieces of the Baroque repertoire. Additionally, the concert will feature Vivaldi's haunting "Flute Concerto in G Minor, RV 439 La Notte" and Rebel's dynamic "Les Éléments," providing a diverse and immersive musical experience.

The evening will be brought to life by an ensemble of exceptionally talented musicians, including Tessa Lark, Njioma Grevious, and Alexi Kenney on violin, Nicole Divall and James Kang on violas, Jonathan Swensen and Brian Gadbow on cellos, and Anthony Manzo on bass. The harpsichord, an instrument synonymous with the Baroque era, will be masterfully played by Jonathan Cohen, adding an authentic touch to the performance.

"Baroque Fantasia" promises to be a memorable journey through the whimsy and imagination of the Baroque era, capturing the timeless beauty and complexity of its music. Don't miss this opportunity to experience the magic of Baroque music performed by some of the most talented musicians of our time.

Baroque Fantasia

This concert unites the poignant Mendelssohn siblings’ works—Fanny’s unduly neglected remarkable work and Felix’s stirring String Quartet, a reaction to her early passing—with compositions by artists silenced or oppressed during WWII. It embodies the spirit of perseverance and the unbreakable will of the human spirit through music.

Resilience

This varied program blends the elegance of Bach’s Suite for Marimba, the passionate tangos of Piazzolla, the neoclassical charm of Stravinsky, and Tchaikovsky’s most beloved ballet—offering a rich tapestry of stories told through dance.

Suite

“Mozart & Pärt” presents a sublime interplay between Mozart’s intricate “Dissonance” Quartet, embodying classical harmony with moments of striking discord, and Arvo Pärt’s minimalist, spiritual compositions. This concert explores how their contrasting sounds complement each other, creating a deeply reflective and harmonious dialogue across time.

Midweek Masterworks: Mozart & Pärt

The New York Times says 2021 GRAMMY nominee Brandee Younger has “almost single-handedly made a persuasive argument for the harp’s role in contemporary jazz.” See this jazz harp sensation and her trio up close in the intimate surroundings of our cabaret-style space.

JAZZ @ THE JAI: Brandee Younger Trio

La Jolla Music Society

This concert unfolds as a heartfelt tribute through the intimate language of chamber music, featuring Bach’s reflective early cantata, selections by VOCES8 spanning several centuries, and Beethoven’s “Archduke” Trio, a musical note of gratitude to his most devoted patron. This concert embodies a journey of thankfulness, from Baroque introspection to Classical exuberance, celebrating the enduring human spirit of appreciation and connection.

Gratitude

Conrad Tao delves into Rachmaninoff’s Californian years, highlighting his relationship with the American songbook, before an exploration of composers past and present who have shaped California’s unique cultural tapestry. This journey through California’s rich artistic legacy showcases the diverse influences and inspirations found within its vibrant landscape, from its pioneering composers to the myriad of stories that have been woven under its expansive skies.

California Dreamin'

This program offers a poignant homage to remembrance and tribute through music. Ravel’s melodic Duo for Violin and Cello, which honors his mentor Claude Debussy; Arensky’s powerful Piano Trio, written in memory of beloved Russian cellist Karl Davidoff; and Fauré’s sublime Requiem, a profound reflection on the passage of life and the peace of the afterlife.

In Loving Memory

Join us for an unforgettable evening with the La Jolla Music Society's "Midweek Masterworks: Notes on a Scandal" on Wednesday, August 14, 2024, at 7 PM in the prestigious Baker-Baum Concert Hall. This unique musical event delves into the depths of passion, exploring the madness, jealousy, and ecstasy it can inspire through a carefully curated selection of compositions that narrate love's most dangerous consequences.

The evening's program features an evocative lineup, starting with Gesualdo's "Two Madrigals" arranged for string quintet, bringing to life the composer's tumultuous emotional landscape. Performers include the talented Simone Porter and Blake Pouliot on violins, Matthew Lipman and Masumi Per Rostad on violas, and Paul Wiancko on cello.

The journey into scandalous love affairs continues with Debussy's "Six Epigraphes Antiques for Piano Four-Hands," a piece that captures the composer's own sordid affairs. The piano will be masterfully handled by Inon Barnatan and Conrad Tao, promising a performance that intertwines complexity with beauty.

The final piece, Franck's "Piano Quintet in F Minor," is a powerful exploration of torrid infatuation. Conrad Tao returns to the piano, joined by Blake Pouliot and Simone Porter on violins, Masumi Per Rostad on viola, and Paul Wiancko on cello, to bring this passionate work to life.

Enhance your experience with "Midweek Cheers" – enjoy a complimentary glass of champagne at these special intermission-less concerts. After the performance, join fellow concertgoers for a celebratory toast in the Wu Tsai QRT.yrd, creating a perfect ending to an evening of exquisite music and shared experiences.

Don't miss this musical exploration of love's darkest corners with the La Jolla Music Society. Secure your tickets now for an evening that promises not only exceptional performances but also a deep dive into the emotions that drive us all.

Midweek Masterworks: Notes on a Scandal

In this live performance of his acclaimed album Natural Machines, Dan Tepfer explores—in music—the intersection between natural and mechanical processes, improvising at the piano and interacting both musically and visually in real time with computer-written programs. It’s an innovative, groundbreaking marriage of sound and vision like no other.

JAZZ @ THE JAI: Dan Tepfer, piano

Building on the sensational success of their Counterpoint program in 2021, this newly conceived performance once more pairs pianist Conrad Tao’s virtuosity with tap dancer Caleb Teicher’s rhythmic genius. A dynamic exploration of movement and music, this collaboration celebrates the dialogue between tap dance and classical music, offering a rhythmically electrifying performance experience. Now with an expanded range of instrumentation, the Synergy series brings us the World Premiere of their latest collaboration, Counterpoint II.

Counterpoint II

Join us for an enchanting evening with the La Jolla Music Society as we present "Midweek Masterworks: Instrumental Stories" on Wednesday, August 21, 2024, at 7 PM in the prestigious Baker-Baum Concert Hall. This unique concert experience will illuminate the profound narratives behind some of the most celebrated compositions in classical music, featuring a lineup of pieces that bridge personal stories with the rich histories of the instruments used to perform them.

The evening will spotlight Brahms’ "String Sextet No. 1," a masterpiece that will be brought to life through the personal stories of the musicians and the venerable histories of their instruments. Adding to the musical tapestry, we will present Bartók’s "Contrasts," a vibrant fusion of classical music and jazz elements, originally commissioned by the legendary Benny Goodman. This piece will showcase the talents of Yura Lee on violin, Anthony McGill on clarinet, and Gilles Vonsattel on piano, creating an unforgettable auditory experience.

Further enriching the program, Michi Wiancko’s "Lullaby for the Transient" will offer a meditative reflection on themes of immigration, performed by an ensemble including Simone Porter and TBA on violins, Jonathan Vinocour on viola, Paul Wiancko on cello, and Anthony McGill returning on clarinet.

The concert will also feature Brahms’ "String Sextet No. 1, Op. 18," interpreted by a distinguished group of musicians including James Ehnes, Jack Liebeck, Yura Lee, Jonathan Vinocour, Paul Watkins, and Kyril Zlotnikov.

To make your evening even more special, we invite you to enjoy a complimentary glass of champagne during our "Midweek Cheers" celebration. This intermission-less concert allows for a seamless musical journey, culminating in a celebratory toast with fellow concertgoers in the Wu Tsai QRT.yrd following the performance.

Don’t miss this deeply engaging exploration of music’s power to tell stories, weaving together personal and historical narratives through the universal language of music.

Midweek Masterworks: Instrumental Stories

Join us on Friday, August 23, 2024, at 7:30 PM for an unforgettable evening at The Baker-Baum Concert Hall, presented by the La Jolla Music Society. "The Road to Victory" is a powerful concert that promises to take you on a journey from adversity to triumph through the medium of classical music.

This exceptional performance will feature three pivotal works that each, in their own way, echo the turmoil and resolve of wartime, while also celebrating the human spirit's capacity to overcome societal barriers. The evening will begin with Beethoven's String Quartet No. 11, Op. 95 "Serioso," a piece renowned for its intense and emotional depth. The quartet will be brought to life by the virtuosic talents of James Ehnes and Simone Porter on violins, Jonathan Vinocour on viola, and Paul Watkins on cello.

Following Beethoven, the audience will be treated to Bridge's Cello Sonata, H. 125, a work that encapsulates the composer's reflection on the anguish of war. Paul Watkins will return to the stage, this time accompanied by Gilles Vonsattel on piano, to deliver this poignant piece.

The concert will conclude with Coleridge-Taylor's Clarinet Quintet in F-sharp Minor, Op. 10, a masterpiece that stands as a testament to overcoming societal barriers with its romantic and lyrical melodies. Anthony McGill will lead on clarinet, supported by an ensemble including Jack Liebeck and Njioma Greivious on violins, Yura Lee on viola, and Kyril Zlotnikov on cello.

"The Road to Victory" is not just a concert; it's an experience that promises to move, inspire, and uplift. Don't miss your chance to be part of this remarkable musical journey.

The Road to Victory

Join us for an unforgettable evening at The Baker-Baum Concert Hall on Saturday, August 24, 2024, at 7:30 PM, as the La Jolla Music Society presents the grand finale of its festival season, "Finale: A Song and Dance." This concert promises to be a spectacular close to the festival, featuring an eclectic mix of pieces that celebrate the joy and power of music.

The evening will commence with the lively and engaging "Selections from Trio for Clarinet, Violin, and Piano" by Paul Schoenfield, including movements such as "Freylakh," "March," and "Kozatske," performed by the talented Jack Liebeck on violin, Anthony McGill on clarinet, and Gilles Vonsattel on piano.

The program will then transition to the rhythmic vitality of Leonard Bernstein's "Symphonic Dances from West Side Story," brought to life by pianists Gilles Vonsattel and Inon Barnatan, along with percussionists Dustin Donahue and Sidney Hopson, capturing the essence of this iconic musical.

Experience the pastoral serenity of Vaughan Williams' "The Lark Ascending," a piece that evokes the tranquil beauty of the English countryside, featuring James Ehnes on violin, with Jack Liebeck as concertmaster, accompanied by the SummerFest Chamber Orchestra.

The evening will conclude with Antonín Dvořák's uplifting "Serenade for Strings," performed by the SummerFest Chamber Orchestra, offering a fittingly triumphant end to the musical journey.

This finale showcases the power of music to unite, inspire, and exhilarate, making it a must-attend event for music lovers. Don't miss this opportunity to experience the magic of live music in a celebration that promises to be both moving and memorable.

La Jolla Music Society

May 4, 2024

Kaki King

May 5, 2024

Junction Trio

May 15, 2024

Ballets Jazz Montréal

May 16, 2024

Pablo Ferrández, cello

May 18, 2024

Charles & Friends: John Beasley and the Next Generation

La Jolla Music Society

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