Celebrating a Decade of Diverse Harmonies: The Valley of the Moon Music Festival's Captivating Journey

The Valley of the Moon Music Festival (VMMF) is poised to commemorate its 10th anniversary with a season that promises to captivate audiences with its diverse and vibrant musical offerings. Themed "Music Across the Americas," this milestone celebration will highlight the rich tapestry of 19th and 20th-century Latin American chamber music, inviting attendees on a remarkable journey through the cross-pollination of musical traditions from across the Americas and Europe.

Immerse Yourself in the Rhythmic Tapestry of the Americas

A Decade of Artistic Excellence

The VMMF has established itself as a premier destination for chamber music enthusiasts, renowned for its dedication to showcasing the flair and depth of the Sonoma-based festival. Over the past 10 years, festival co-directors Tanya Tomkins and Eric Zivian have curated programs that have consistently delighted and enlightened audiences. This year's festival promises to continue this tradition, offering a unique blend of well-known repertoire pieces and seldom-heard gems from Latin America, North America, and Europe.

Celebrating the Diversity of Latin American Music

The festival's 10th anniversary season will feature an impressive array of composers from across Latin America, including Mexico, Venezuela, Peru, Argentina, Brazil, and Cuba. Attendees will have the opportunity to experience the works of luminaries such as Cuban virtuoso José White, Venezuelan multi-hyphenate Teresa Carreño, Brazilian favorite Heitor Villa-Lobos, guitarist-composer Sérgio Assad, tango master Astor Piazzola, and Mexican composer Manuel Ponce. This diverse program will provide a captivating exploration of the rich musical heritage of the Americas, inviting audiences to immerse themselves in the vibrant tapestry of Latin American chamber music.

Embracing Historical Authenticity

The VMMF's commitment to performing Classical and Romantic chamber music on historical instruments ensures an authentic listening experience for attendees. By utilizing these period-appropriate instruments, the festival aims to transport audiences back in time, allowing them to fully appreciate the nuances and emotional depth of the music as it was originally intended to be heard.

Enhancing the Experience: Lectures and Podcasts

Complementing the captivating musical performances, the VMMF's Blattner Lecture Series returns, offering audiences deeper insights into the season's programming. Led by Harvard musicology professor Dr. Kate van Orden, these lectures delve into the historical context of the music, enriching the overall concert experience. Additionally, a new podcast series will feature discussions with festival artists and musicologists, providing attendees with an even more immersive and engaging journey through the festival's offerings.

Outdoor Concerts and Intimate Spotlights

The festival's beloved Alfresco concerts, held in the stunning settings of Bartholomew Estate Winery, La Luz Center, and Buena Vista Winery, will once again blend the beauty of Sonoma Valley with exquisite chamber music. Attendees can look forward to these outdoor performances, which promise to create a truly enchanting and unforgettable experience. Furthermore, an intimate Artist Spotlight will feature VMMF laureate and 2020 Avery Fisher Career Grant recipient violinist Rachell Ellen Wong, offering a unique opportunity to witness the artistry of this rising star.

Celebrating the Festival's Legacy

To mark the 10th anniversary of the VMMF, a new podcast series will provide a behind-the-scenes look at the festival's history and the upcoming season. Hosts and festival directors Tanya Tomkins and Eric Zivian will engage in insightful conversations with musicians, academics, and experts, offering audiences a deeper understanding of the festival's evolution and the "Music Across the Americas" theme.As the Valley of the Moon Music Festival embarks on its 10th season, it promises to captivate audiences with a program that celebrates the rich diversity of Latin American chamber music, while also honoring the festival's legacy of artistic excellence and innovative programming. Music enthusiasts from near and far are invited to join in this remarkable journey, where the harmonies of the Americas and Europe converge to create an unforgettable musical experience.