Big news from the classical music world! La Jolla Music Society has just announced a major extension for SummerFest Music Director Inon Barnatan. Get ready for five more years of his incredible artistic vision shaping one of California’s most cherished music festivals. What exciting new collaborations do you think he’ll bring?
La Jolla Music Society, a cornerstone of Southern California’s cultural landscape, has announced a significant five-year contract extension for SummerFest Music Director Inon Barnatan. This pivotal agreement secures Barnatan’s artistic leadership through 2025, promising continued innovation and world-class performances for one of the nation’s most distinguished **classical music festivals**.
Barnatan, a globally acclaimed piano soloist, has previously graced stages with prestigious ensembles such as the BBC Symphony for the BBC Proms, the Los Angeles Philharmonic, and the Leipzig Gewandhaus Orchestra. His profound musicality and interpretive depth have established him as a leading figure in contemporary classical music, making his continued tenure a celebrated event for the **La Jolla Music Society** community.
Expressing his enthusiasm, Inon Barnatan shared, “Every SummerFest has felt like both a homecoming and a new beginning.” He added, “I’m thrilled to extend my role as Music Director and to keep exploring the music, ideas, and collaborations that make this festival so unique. The trust and enthusiasm of this community and the support from the staff of LJMS mean the world to me, and I’m excited for all that lies ahead!”
Since assuming the directorship in 2019, Barnatan has been instrumental in shaping the artistic direction of SummerFest, curating its overarching themes and intricate programming. His responsibilities also encompass overseeing the jury for the Summerfest Fellowship Artists, actively participating in various Learning and Engagement events, and performing in multiple concerts each summer, solidifying his deep involvement in every facet of the festival.
Leah Rosenthal, LJMS Artistic Director, lauded Barnatan’s visionary contributions. “Inon’s artistic vision has propelled SummerFest to new heights, uniting a vibrant community of world-class musicians, jazz artists, and dancers who are eager to share the stage with him,” Rosenthal stated, emphasizing the collaborative spirit he fosters.
The extension comes as SummerFest looks ahead to a monumental milestone: its 40th anniversary festival in 2026. This long-term commitment from Inon Barnatan ensures a stable and inspiring artistic trajectory, allowing for ambitious planning and the continued elevation of the festival’s esteemed reputation within the San Diego arts scene and beyond.
This renewed partnership underscores La Jolla Music Society’s dedication to artistic excellence and its mission to bring exceptional cultural experiences to its audiences. The continuity provided by Barnatan’s leadership is expected to further enhance SummerFest’s standing as a premier destination for classical music lovers, fostering an environment of creativity and profound musical exploration.
The impact of this extension extends beyond the stage, contributing significantly to the cultural vibrancy and economic enrichment of the region. By securing top-tier talent and fostering innovative programming, the La Jolla Music Society continues to solidify its role as a vital cultural institution, attracting both acclaimed artists and dedicated patrons to its world-renowned events.
