2024 SUMMER FESTIVAL CONCERT SCHEDULE
Orchestra concerts conducted by Maestro Brett Mitchell

Opening Night Classical Concert: EARTH
Sunday, August 11, 7:30 p.m.
Tower Theatre, Bend
Tickets start at $45; tickets for age 25 & under $25
IVES (arr. Schuman) Variations on “America” 
GERSHWIN Rhapsody in Blue
with Orion Weiss, piano 
BEETHOVEN Symphony No. 6, “Pastoral”
The Festival season opener celebrates two landmark anniversaries: Charles Ives’ 150th birthday and his brilliant Variations on “America,” plus the 100th anniversary of George Gershwin’s immortal Rhapsody in Blue with pianist Orion Weiss. After intermission, Beethoven’s “Pastoral Symphony” is a musical depiction of five scenes in nature.
One of the most sought-after soloists of his generation, Orion Weiss is widely regarded as a “brilliant pianist” (The New York Times) with “powerful technique and exceptional insight” (The Washington Post). With a warmth to his playing that outwardly reflects his engaging personality, he has dazzled audiences with his passionate, lush sound and has performed with dozens of orchestras across North America.

From August 10-23, 2024, Sunriver Music Festival will fill Central Oregon with world-class music. Artistic Director & Conductor Brett Mitchell leads world-class orchestra musicians and acclaimed soloists in a remarkable 47th season held in two venues, the iconic Tower Theatre in downtown Bend and Sunriver Resort’s historic Great Hall.

Programs include four classical concerts, a pops concert, a solo violin performance and the family-friendly “Discover the Symphony” concert. The Summer Concert Series opens August 11 at the Tower Theatre and closes August 23 at Sunriver Resort’s Great Hall.
“One of my favorite things about Central Oregon is the power of nature that we’re able to witness all year round, so I’m particularly thrilled to share with you an entire season filled with pieces inspired by the four classical elements: earth, water, fire and air,” said Mitchell. “Composers for centuries have been inspired by the enormity and grandeur of nature, and I know you’ll be just as inspired when you hear their extraordinary music.”

“This summer, Central Oregon residents and visitors will experience eclectic live music performed by talented musicians from around the country, both in the orchestra and as guest soloists,” said Executive Director Meagan Iverson. “Maestro Mitchell is an esteemed conductor with a dedication to artistic excellence, creative concert curation and inspired community engagement.”
Ticket sales for Friends of the Festival members begin as early as April 1; tickets are available to the public on June 1. Members have first choice of the best seats, plus receive ticket discounts, gifts, invites to special events, and potential tax benefits.

Other events prior to the Summer Concert Series include Piano Showcase at the Tower with Sean Chen and Arthur Migliazza on March 16, Swings fore Strings Golf Tournament on June 2, Young Artists Scholarship Recital on June 7 and the Festival Faire Fundraising Gala in July. More information on year-round events can be found at sunrivermusic.org.
Sunriver Music Festival also presents free music education events, masterclasses and spontaneous chamber music concerts during these two weeks in August. Most orchestra rehearsals are free and open to the public. More details to be announced.

Patrons who purchase a full six-concert series of classical concerts, pops and solo recital receive a 10% discount. Other flexible package options are available.
Details and tickets are available at sunrivermusic.org or by calling 541-593-9310.
Sunriver Music Festival is a year-round nonprofit presenting world-class orchestral performances and supporting music education throughout Central Oregon. Through a commitment to excellence, collaboration and innovation, the Festival seeks to foster a lifelong love of classical music in its many diverse forms. Visit sunrivermusic.org for more information.