The Carmel Bach Festival is set to return for its 89th season, running from July 11 to July 25, 2026. The festival, known for its rich musical heritage, will take place in Carmel and across the Monterey Peninsula. This year’s theme, “the nature of sound,” aims to deepen listeners’ appreciation not just for music, but for the sounds that surround them.
Grete Pedersen, the festival’s Artistic Director and Principal Conductor, expressed the intent behind the theme, stating, “Our theme invites us to listen more deeply, not only to music, but to the world around us.” She emphasized the unique auditory landscape of Carmel, from the waves of the Pacific Ocean to everyday sounds like cars and conversations.
The festival’s Executive Director, Nathan Lutz, noted the significance of exploring the festival’s roots. Established in 1935 by founders Hazel Watrous and Dene Denny, the Carmel Bach Festival was conceived in a climate of artistic freedom and innovation. “As we continue to dig deeper into the Festival’s history, we are reminded that it was born in a Carmel-by-the-Sea defined by artistic freedom, curiosity and experimentation,” Lutz said.
The program features a blend of early classics and contemporary works, creating a rich tapestry of musical dialogue. Attendees can look forward to performances of Bach cantatas, Haydn’s oratorio “The Seasons,” Vivaldi’s “Four Seasons,” and Beethoven’s Pastoral Symphony, among others. The festival will also showcase modern compositions from notable composers such as Kaija Saariaho, Nils Henrik Asheim, Einojuhani Rautavaara, and Angélica Negrón, who has been named the featured composer for the season.
Negrón, celebrated for her innovative fusion of classical and electronic music, will have several works performed throughout the festival, including “Marejada,” which incorporates natural sounds from Puerto Rico’s beaches. She expressed her excitement about the festival, saying, “I’m beyond thrilled to explore how nature, science, technology, acoustics, field recordings and music intersect with human connection, curiosity and perception through shared listening.”
In addition to the main concerts, the festival will include a variety of chamber concerts, master classes, lectures, and special events. A new venue this year is the historic Henry Miller Memorial Library in Big Sur, which will enhance the festival’s intimate musical experience.
As the festival approaches, tickets will soon be available for purchase. Interested attendees can visit www.BachFestival.org or contact the festival office at (831) 624-1521 for more information.
In related news, Youth Music Monterey County will present “Hidden Depths,” featuring young musicians from across the region on March 1, 2026, at Carmel’s Sunset Center. The concert includes performances of Schubert’s “Unfinished Symphony” and Max Bruch’s Violin Concerto, showcasing talented young artists like Katherine Lin, a 12-year-old violinist recognized for her exceptional skill.
The Pacific Repertory Theatre has also kicked off its 2026 season with Michael Frayn’s acclaimed comedy “Noises Off,” which runs throughout February at the Golden Bough Playhouse. This production highlights the chaos of live theatre in a farcical exploration of a theatrical performance gone awry.
Finally, the New Canon Theater has announced a production of Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet,” set against the backdrop of the Vietnam War, scheduled for June 11-28, 2026. The theater also plans to feature a work-in-progress by a celebrated artist during this time, reinforcing their commitment to new works and artistic development.
For more details on these events, audiences can check their respective websites or contact their box offices for tickets and additional information.
