Monday, June 28, 2021

2021's Best Summer Classical Music Concerts


Published by StringOvation Team on June 21, 2021

Things are finally starting to open up again, which is fantastic news for we string musicians who love to attend live music concerts. And, we have to admit, a silver lining of this past year is that major symphonies worldwide have perfected the art of broadcasting live events online. 

We envision online concert streaming as the wave of the music tech future, allowing audience members to attend "live" concerts from home when it isn't possible to be there in person.

July 10 & 11: Boston Symphony Orchestra features violinist Baiba Skride (Morning Rehearsal & Concert)

Have you ever wondered what it's like to practice and perform with a top symphony? If so, we highly recommend purchasing tickets to BSO's "Saturday Morning Rehearsal" with violinist Baiba Skride. They begin with a pre-rehearsal talk, and then you get to see BSO conductor Andris Nelsons work with the orchestra and soloist. You'll witness how even the most esteemed professional musicians are still constructively guided to be the best they can be.

The main concert takes place on July 11 at 2:30 p.m., when the symphony will perform Carlos Simon's "Fate Now Conquers," a Sibelius "Violin Concerto," and Dvořák's Symphony No. 6. This concert is part of the larger BSO annual Tanglewood Music Festival, running from 7/19 - 8/16)

June 23 - August 4. Bravo!Vail Music Festival 

Back for its 34th season, Bravo!Vail Music Festival is a favorite for music lovers throughout the continental United States and the rest of the world. Set in one of the most scenic locations in the Rocky Mountains, the 2021 Bravo!Vail Music Festival showcases four phenomenal orchestras throughout the season: Academy of St Martin in the Fields, Dallas Symphony Orchestra, the Philadelphia Orchestra, and the New York Philharmonic.  

As in summers past, chamber music will play a vital role this year, with programs highlighting both old favorites and contemporary works. The return of free concerts throughout the summer will bring no-cost programs to the community in an approachable way. 

If you love the broad spectrum of grander music festival events, you should also check out: 

The Aspen Music Festival (7/1-8/22)

Ravinia (July)

Glyndebourne Festival Opera (5/20-8/29)

Glimmerglass (7/15-8/17)

Salzburg Music Festival (7/17-8-31)


July 28: Black Violin at the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts in San Antonio, Texas

If you'd prefer a more contemporary take on string music, we recommend hearing Black Violin, who will be performing at the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts in San Antonio. This particular concert is part of Black Violin's "Impossible Tour" (ironic tour name pun not intended!), showing how the center has rolled with the pandemic punches.  

Black Violin are advocates for educational outreach and, in the past 12 months have performed for over 100,000 students in the US and Europe. Their Impossible Tour will spread the message that anything is possible, and there are no limits to what one can achieve, regardless of circumstance.

September 4: Tchaikovsky Spectacular with the Pacific Symphony

What a glorious way to close out the summer concert and music festival season! No SummerFest is complete without the Pacific Symphony performing Tchaikovsky's thrilling 1812 Overture, complete with live cannons and brilliant fireworks. Enjoy the spectacle as you also listen to the greatest hits of some of Russia's greatest Romantic composers. Featuring guest artist, pianist George Li, the event occurs at the Orange County Fair and Event Center.

Nothing is more inspiring than being in the presence of expert string musicians who excel in their craft. We hope this summer allows you the opportunity to attend at least one event in person.