While we all look ahead to the possibility of having a slightly more normal summer this year — the Toronto Summer Music Festival is hoping to get us one step closer to a feeling of normalcy.
Toronto Summer Music has announced the second year of their online-only season, which they’re calling “New Horizons”. While it’s not the same as in-person concerts, this will have to do. Launching July 15 and closing August 1, the 2021 edition will see a stage-ready lineup of chamber music, art song, and dance. The entire festival is 100% free.
This year also marks the return of the TSM Academy for Emerging Artists after a one-year hiatus.
“For three weeks in July, New Horizons looks beyond the challenges of the pandemic, and forward to a better future. We celebrate this summer with a wonderful assortment of music from both past and present, showcasing the resilience and creativity of our featured artists,” said TSM’s Jonathan Crow.
Highlights:
- Charles Richard-Hamelin — July 15
- Gryphon Trio — July 15
- Jonathan Crow and pianist Philip Chiu (Beethoven Sonatas) — July 15, 19, 25, 26, August 1
- Adrianne Pieczonka and pianist Steven Philcox — July 20
- Kerson Leong (violin), Stéphane Tétreault (cello), and Angela Schwartzkopf (harp) — July 27
- New Orford String Quartet — July 28
- National Academy Orchestra — July 29
Zoom out:
Many arts groups seem to be on the fence about whether or not they should be charging for online concerts. Online concerts cost money and artists deserve to be paid for their time. The simplest way to offset this cost is to charge an entry fee, especially if the quality of artists backs up the cost. So who is paying for the TSM festival this year? According to TSM, all events are free thanks to the generous support of TSM funders, sponsors and donors. But don’t get used to it. Next year will it will likely cost you money, so enjoy it while it lasts.
For more details, including a complete list of events, visit the Festival website.
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