Summer Music in the Garden begins this weekend, on Friday June 21, kicking off its 23rd season on Toronto’s waterfront. The lineup includes 18 free performances presented by The Harbourfront Centre.
The performers come from across Canada, and across the globe.
In his curatorial statement, Gregory Oh comments, “Has it really been 25 years since the Music Garden opened, its legendary weeping willow rehabilitated through the perseverance of a determined arbourist? I am reminded that big things last and flourish through the combined faith and effort of their community. Two of Canada’s finest cellists will tip their bows to our shared history at this magical space by the lake, which has meant so many things to so many people.
The Toronto Music Garden
It’s also the 25th anniversary of the Toronto Music Garden itself. Put together by a group of Toronto landscape architects from the city’s Parks and Recreation department, along with landscape designer Julie Messervy, it was created in collaboration with renowned cellist Yo-Yo Ma.
The design is inspired by J.S. Bach’s Cello Suite No. 1 in G Major BWV 1007 for unaccompanied cello. Paths curve around to six different areas named for the movements of the Suite – Prelude, Allemande, Courante, Sarabande, Menuett, and Gigue – each evoking a different mood.
The path ends at an outdoor amphitheatre by the lake, perfect for summer concerts.
The Lineup: Classical Highlights
In her curatorial statement, Rebecca Cuddy states, ““tansi kiyawaw,
“It’s a pleasure to join you all again for my second year of Summer Music in the Garden. For the 2023 season, I declared ‘Joy’ was the word for me. In 2024 my guiding word is ‘Celebration’. Honouring milestones, cherishing our time together and shining sunlight through willow branches on incredible talent.
“The vibrant city of T’karonto is home to incredible artists whose music reflects cultural pride and our shared humanity. It is our pleasure to host them in the garden. Let’s embrace the healing power of music and the spirit of celebration all summer long.”
The IndigiDivas | Jun 21 • 7 p.m.
Three female-identifying Indigenous singers Melody Courage (soprano), Rebecca Cuddy and Michelle Lafferty (mezzo-sopranos) bring the operatic and orchestral genres together with Indigenous traditions.
Cello Revel | Jun 23 • 4 p.m.
Rachel Mercer, principal cello of the National Arts Centre Orchestra, performs pieces by Bach, and a work by cellist/composer India Gailey commissioned by The Harbourfront Centre.
Up And Coming | Jul 7 • 4 p.m.
The National Youth Orchestra of Canada performs a concert of chamber music.
Crossroads | Jul 11 • 7 p.m.
The Tarolinbak Persian Trio performs Iranian and other Middle Eastern classical music from Azerbaijan, Lorestan and Khorasan.
The Nine Maidens | Jul 14 • 4 p.m.
Vocal group Ménestrel performs a concert of Early Music featuring vocalists, plucked strings and violin, including ayres and ballads.
Scenic Sojourn | Jul 25 • 7 p.m.
The Toronto Chinese Orchestra Chamber Players perform classical and traditional works from the many cultures and regions of China, including music performed on Guzheng, Erhu, Pipa and Dizi.
From Canada To Cuphead | Jul 28 • 4 p.m.
An eclectic program from Duo Holz, including Iranian hand drumming, ragtime, fiddling, and a newly commissioned work by Matthias McIntire.
From Toronto To Kyoto | Aug 25 • 4 p.m.
The University of Toronto Percussion Ensemble showcase their talent with a variety of works from across the globe.
The Joining Of Light | Aug 29 • 7 p.m.
Canadian cellist Arlen Hlusko, the most recent member of NYC’s Bang-On-A-Can All-Stars performs works by Bach and others with a running theme of hope and community.
- Check out the full line up [HERE].
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