Violinist Anne Akiko Meyers Leads the 22nd Annual Laguna Beach Music Festival

The picturesque seaside city of Laguna Beach is once again resonating with the sounds of the 22nd Annual Laguna Beach Music Festival. This highly anticipated musical gathering is a collaborative effort presented by Laguna Beach Live! and the Philharmonic Society of Orange County, running until February 18.

Enchanting Artistry of Anne Akiko Meyers

Radiating mastery and charm, the renowned violinist Anne Akiko Meyers takes center stage as the artistic director of this year's festival. The San Diego Union-Tribune extols her as 'a musical wizard, with astonishing access to every kind of expressive color,' highlighting her profound impact on the classical music landscape.

A Community Celebre

Since its inception in 2002, the Laguna Beach Music Festival has carved out a niche as a distinct cultural event blending classical and contemporary concerts, complemented by community engagements and vibrant happenings. The festival is steered by a board composed of dedicated local community leaders who work tirelessly to curate the event's themes, select musicians, orchestrate special functions, and spearhead educational outreach.

The festival is also deeply invested in education and lifelong learning opportunities. Attendees can look forward to a plethora of enrichment activities, including artist meet-and-greet sessions, intimate salons, open rehearsals, and informative discussions. Moreover, the festival's programs extend to local schools, making live music accessible to children and fostering a dynamic connection between artists and audiences.

Concert Highlights

The festival promises a line-up of spellbinding performances, starting with the Opening Night on February 16 featuring new violin-harp arrangements, as well as violin-electronic collaborations. The following day offers a unique Plein Air Art and Music event set against the backdrop of Laguna Beach's cliffs, which is free to the public. Later that evening, Meyers alongside fellow violinist Aubree Oliverson, and the Colburn Academy Virtuosi, will captivate the audience with a performance dubbed 'Doubles' spotlighting the interaction of two violins.

Concluding the festival on February 18 with a 'Carnaval!' concert, the playhouse will be filled with an eclectic mix of music, featuring Meyers, alongside a talented ensemble of musicians. This final event has indeed caught the public's imagination and is currently sold out, but hopeful attendees can join a waitlist for a chance to experience the vibrant finish of the festival.

As the festival unfolds, the Laguna Beach Music Festival stands as a testament to the power of music to unite, educate, and inspire. For those seeking to witness the artistic excellence led by Anne Akiko Meyers, ticket details and support information can be found at the Philharmonic Society of Orange County's website.

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