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CRITIC’S PICKS | Classical Music Events You Absolutely Need To See This Week: June 29 – July 5 2026

L-R (clockwise): Superstar guitarist St. Vincent (Photo: OK McCausland); the Ladom Ensemble (Photo courtesy of the artists); the Trinity Bach Project (Photo courtesy of the artists)
L-R (clockwise): Superstar guitarist St. Vincent (Photo: OK McCausland); the Ladom Ensemble (Photo courtesy of the artists); the Trinity Bach Project (Photo courtesy of the artists)

This is a list of concerts we are attending, wishing we could attend, or thinking about attending between June 29 and July 5, 2026. For more of what’s happening around Toronto, visit our calendar here.

Live Nation: St. Vincent Live with Orchestra

Tuesday, June 30, 8 p.m.
Roy Thomson Hall, $96+

Annie Clark, aka St. Vincent, is a true heartthrob. Named the 26th greatest guitarist of all-time by Rolling Stone (2023), Clark has been busy — she was a member of the Polyphonic Spree, joined Sufjan Stevens’s tour, and also continued to do her thing. Widely known as St. Vincent since 2003, she’s been cranking out a series of amazing albums, and her live performances are noted for high sophistication, drama, and great energy. Born out of her debut with the 2025 BBC Proms, St. Vincent’s current tour, ‘St. Vincent with Orchestra’, features super talented Jules Buckley at the podium, co-leading freshly orchestrated selections from her hits with top-notch orchestral arrangements and an additional touring four-piece band. We are all familiar with orchestral arrangements — some bad, some terrible, and some relatable. Finding a great arrangements performance is rare — especially live, as for many, arrangements are often considered lesser when compared to the original. However, this tour has been deeply appreciated by many for Clark’s typical attention to detail, impeccable aesthetics, and great stage presence. For something different, put your rocker sunglasses on, and join Clark for an evening of original, beautiful, and fantastic energy this Thursday. Info here.

Trinity Bach Project. Bach & Wings

Tuesday, June 30, 8 p.m.
Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, 520 Sherbourne St., $15+

A rare classical musical event on this cusp week into the high summer marked by Canada Day, TBC brings us Bach: Cantata BWV 137 “Lobe den Herren, den mächtigen König der Ehren”, and Cantata BWV 43 “Gott fähret auf mit Jauchzen”. Featuring extended choir and chamber orchestra, this would be an excellent way to fill up the weekday evening with music gorgeously crafted and performed with care and knowledge — it’s been lovely to have TBP present us with Bach, and other Baroque works, with such consistently great quality. Come out and join in for the joy that only live experience can bring. Info here.

University of Toronto: Canada Day Carillon Recital

Wednesday, July 1, 2 p.m.
Soldiers’ Tower, 7 Hart House Circle, free

If you are planning to stroll downtown this Canada Day, do make a stop and take a seat at the historic Soldiers’ Tower for a mid-afternoon carillon performance by Dr. Elisa Tersigni. Sometimes it’s difficult to determine the definition of patriotism, ethical obligations, and the construction and appreciation of national identity — especially when there are many conflicts and losses resulting from the decisions we’ve had to make, and have decided to make. However, the loss of young lives in the name of war is still precious and difficult, as all these individuals made the ultimate sacrifice, in the hope of creating a better world. We shall not forget such valiant actions, especially as we celebrate the wealth and beauty of Canada, despite many ongoing challenges. Come and hear the beautiful carillons ring through this important day, and ponder where we should head next, as a nation that is responsible, proud, and humble. Info here.

Harbourfront Centre: Summer Music in the Garden: Ladom Ensemble — Sofreh Tisch

Thursday, July 2, 7 p.m.
Toronto Music Garden, 479 Queens Quay, free

Ladom Ensemble is packed with cultural diversity and creativity. Their latest album, Sofreh Tisch, explores many little stories from the Caspian Sea to Transylvania, to the Eastern European Jewish diaspora, and on to the Bronx in the 50s, and it’s always a joy to hear the stories live, from the storymakers. Along with the perennial favourite, Bartók’s Romanian Folk Dances, the group will also present a brand new commission as well. A great way to soak into the summer evening’s relaxed, languid air. Info here.

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