
A Vibrant Celebration of Contemporary Music
The Cabrillo Festival of Contemporary Music is currently underway, offering a unique opportunity for the public to experience the power of live orchestral performances. On Tuesday, attendees gathered at the Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium for a free open rehearsal, where guest conductor Daniela Candillari led the orchestra through a series of musical selections. This event provided a glimpse into the artistic process and allowed audience members to witness the precision and passion that define the festival.
Now in its 63rd season, the festival continues to showcase cutting-edge compositions and innovative performances. The opening night on Friday will feature a program titled Lumina, which includes works by renowned composers such as John Corigliano, Nina Shekhar, and Missy Mazzoli. One of the highlights of the evening will be the West Coast premiere of Mazzoli’s Violin Concerto, performed by soloist Jennifer Koh. In this piece, Koh takes on the role of a soothsayer and healer, guiding the orchestra through “five interconnected healing spells” that promise to captivate listeners.
On Saturday, the festival will present another exciting program called Chasing Light, which explores the themes of light and iridescence. This performance will include a “heart-pumping relay race through the orchestra,” creating an energetic and dynamic atmosphere. The program also features the world premiere of a new song cycle composed by Stacy Garrop for baritone Sidney Outlaw and soprano Michelle Areyzaga. Garrop’s work draws inspiration from the correspondence, papers, and speeches of Frederick Douglass and Susan B. Anthony, whose 45-year friendship was marked by shared ideals and mutual support. The composition vividly portrays their courage in the face of opposition, “painting their struggles in suffrage with vibrant historical hues.”
Throughout the festival, which runs until August 10, audiences can enjoy a wide range of events, including concerts, talks, workshops, and open rehearsals. These activities bring together over 20 composers, seven guest artists, and a world-renowned Festival Orchestra consisting of 72 professional musicians. The festival serves as a platform for emerging and established voices in contemporary music, fostering creativity and collaboration.
As the longest-running festival in the United States dedicated to new music and orchestral performance, the Cabrillo Festival of Contemporary Music remains a vital cultural institution. Its commitment to innovation and artistic excellence ensures that each season brings fresh perspectives and groundbreaking works to the stage. Whether attending a concert, participating in a workshop, or simply experiencing an open rehearsal, attendees are immersed in a world where music transcends boundaries and inspires change.