VENTURA — Join us for Mehta at the Museum: the story of American Classical Music. A collaboration between the Ventura Music Festival and the Museum of Ventura County featuring Ventura Music Festival’s spellbinding artistic director, Nuvi Mehta, 3–4 p.m., June 4, presenting his unique spin on the music and stories of the people and events leading up to what is recognized today as authentically American Classical Music. The Museum is located at 100 E. Main Street, Ventura. Admission is free for First Free Sunday.
Included in the story: the starts and the misfires, the impact of European composers, the importance of Jazz, the landmark contribution of Gershwin, the distinctly American imagery and music of Aaron Copland followed shortly after by the glorious work of Samuel Barber.
The program also focuses on American classical music today when Ojai’s John Biggs joins the conversation. Biggs, a fiercely independent, well-loved composer, has written numerous emotionally rich classical pieces over the course of his long career.
While Mehta at the Museum is an admission-free event, reservations are requested. RSVP at http://www.venturamusicfestival.org/register.php.