MONTEREY — Ensemble Monterey has announced its third concert in the “Season of Dreams”: “A Sweet Dream.” This captivating program, scheduled for Jan. 25 and 26, will showcase a diverse selection of works that promise to transport audiences through a range of emotions, from whimsy and joy to profound reflection.
Featured pieces include the following:
- Steve Ettinger – “All Mixed Up”: A dynamic and evocative overture written specifically for Ensemble Monterey and conductor John Anderson. This piece, inspired by mixed instrumentation and shifting time signatures, is the first movement of a larger work composed in 2024 in memory of the composer’s late sister, Amy Ettinger. “I am deeply grateful to John and the musicians of Ensemble Monterey for bringing my music to life,” Ettinger said.
- Jean Françaix – “9 Pièces Caractéristiques”: Known for his bright, witty and charming compositions, Françaix delights with a suite of lively and sophisticated pieces for wind instruments. Described as “music to give pleasure,” this work reflects the composer’s dedication to creating joyous and entertaining experiences.
- Gustav Holst – “St. Paul’s Suite”: Written for the students of St. Paul’s Girls’ School, this suite showcases Holst’s passion for British folk music and his ability to combine contrasting styles, offering a glimpse into the techniques later perfected in The Planets.
- Johannes Brahms – “Serenade No. 2 in A Major, Op. 16”: A masterful blend of warmth, gracious melodies and classical sophistication, this serenade reveals Brahms’ early brilliance and charm. Its five movements balance simple elegance with moments of poignant intensity.
“This thoughtfully curated program will resonate with both seasoned classical enthusiasts and newcomers,” according to Ensemble Monterey. “From the contemporary emotions of Ettinger’s ‘All Mixed Up’ to the timeless joy of Brahms, the concert embodies the spirit of dreaming and discovery that defines this season.”
Adding a special touch to this program, Youth Music Monterey’s South County Strings will perform at both the Monterey and Santa Cruz venues. This initiative, a partnership with the Soledad Unified School District and Bradley Union School District, provides opportunities for students in underserved areas to study violin, viola and cello.
Their performance will feature works by Richard Meyer, showcasing the students’ progress and the transformative power of music education.
Performances are scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 25, at 7 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church in Monterey, and Sunday, Jan. 26, at 5 p.m. at Peace United Church of Christ in Santa Cruz. Tickets are available at ensemblemonterey.org.
The 2024-25 concert season is dedicated to Ruth Hartmann, whose longstanding and enthusiastic support has been pivotal in Ensemble Monterey’s journey. Ensemble Monterey Chamber Orchestra was founded in 1992 as a consortium of professional musicians in the greater Central Coast area, dedicated to performing music that is adventurous, challenging and unique.
