Mendocino Music Festival

The Mendocino Music Festival is a renowned annual music event that has been captivating audiences since its inception in 1986. The festival was founded by Allan Pollack, Susan Waterfall, and Walter Green, who was the former principal bassoonist of the San Francisco Symphony. Set against the backdrop of Northern California's stunning coastal scenery, the festival offers a diverse array of musical performances, including orchestra concerts, Big Band, chamber music, dance, blues, jazz, world, folk, bluegrass, and contemporary music. The festival's history is marked by its commitment to excellence and innovation in music. Allan Pollack, the festival's Artistic Director and Conductor since the very first performance in 1987, has led memorable renditions of classical masterpieces such as Verdi’s Requiem, Beethoven’s 9th Symphony, and Stravinsky’s Rite of Spring. Pollack, with a Ph.D. in composition from UC Berkeley, has also composed original works for the festival, showcasing his versatility as both a classical and jazz musician. Associate Artistic Director Susan Waterfall, also a co-founder of the festival, is a pianist known for her multi-media, narrated chamber music presentations. Her thematic programs have explored the music and culture of various regions and eras, enriching the festival's offerings with educational and cultural context. Waterfall's background includes studies with prominent musicians and musicologists, as well as experience in South Indian Classical Music. The festival also features Jeremy Preston as Concertmaster, who brings his expertise from his roles in the San Francisco Opera Orchestra and the San Francisco Ballet Orchestra. Jenny Matteucci serves as Chorus Master, bringing her diverse experience in performance, direction, and education to the festival's choral presentations. The Mendocino Music Festival is not just a series of concerts but a vibrant community event that includes educational programs such as open rehearsals, lectures, vocal courses, and a special Emerging Artists Program designed to nurture new talent. The festival's commitment to education is evident in its extensive offerings that allow participants to deepen their musical knowledge and skills. Support for the Mendocino Music Festival comes from a community of donors, volunteers, and music enthusiasts whose contributions are vital to the festival's success. Each year, the festival packs over two dozen concerts into just over two weeks every July, offering a rich and varied lineup that attracts audiences from far and wide. The Mendocino Music Festival stands as a testament to the power of music to bring people together and the enduring appeal of a community united by a shared passion for the arts. Its continued success is a tribute to the founders' vision and the collective efforts of all those involved in making the festival a highlight of the cultural calendar.