The hills are again alive with the sound of music in Santa Barbara-- thanks to the vision, foresight and planning of the Music Academy of the West. After last year’s “Digital Festival,” not only are the classical music luminaries back in full force, but all 110 fellowship recipients from last year and this year are in attendance representing the youthful talent of 20 countries. This annual two month-long festival is the culmination of a year’s worth of diligent effort from the dedicated staff and supporters of the Music Academy of the West to bring this world class event to Santa Barbara. It is an unrivaled opportunity for international talent to mix, mingle, create and inspire each other, as they prepare to dazzle their audiences. The real benefactors are we the people who are in the know about this cornucopia of exceptional classical caliber being held in settings as breathtaking as the performances.
The Music Academy of the West is housed in Miraflores, an estate on a bluff in Montecito just steps from the ocean and home to many prominent celebrities. Uniquely purposed as a Conservatory of Music, the sprawling, tree-laden campus buildings are outfitted with the latest technology including countless Steinway pianos sprinkled generously throughout. Additional iconic venues such as the historic Granada Theatre in Santa Barbara are also utilized to showcase the variety of performance options offered throughout the month. From the onset, the Music Academy of the West’s vision of international excellence has been achieved by inviting established and promising artists to learn from each other in the collegial format of “Masterclass,” as well as through joint performances of students and teacher.
In addition, there are numerous performances of recognized, established musicians such as the opening performance of this season led by Maestro Larry Rachleff and the Academy Chamber Orchestra held at the Granada Theater in Santa Barbara and two appearances by Maestro Michael Tilson Thomas as well as the season finale conducted by Marin Alsop.
Each year the festival is launched by a gala celebrating the opening of the season honoring one of the alumni performers. After last year’s virtual opening, this year’s event was even more festive. Guests and artists toasted the long-awaited return on the patio with gusto and a palpable taste of appreciation provided by gourmet appetizers and a multicourse sit-down dinner paired with local wines and boutique beverages of distinction worthy of the occasion. Each course was punctuated by a performance interlude highlighting the scope of talent on offer during the month.
The evening was capped with the presentation of the Distinguished Alumni Award to recent Grammy winning violinist and Takács Quartet member, Richard O’Neill. He graciously accepted the award and along with Scott Reid, President and CEO of the Academy, heralded the official opening and encouraged attendees to be prepared for the stellar season of artistry that awaits with something for every classical music taste and then some. For full program details, scheduling, and ticketing visit musicacademy.org.
