Music in the Mountains’ SummerFest: From Beethoven to Queen

MUSIC IN THE MOUNTAINS DISMISSES THE idea that classical music is stuffy. For 32 years, MIM has presented the full spectrum of classical music, with pops, jazz, big band and Broadway music, to enthusiastic audiences.

This year’s program amplifies the group’s mission. Reenergized under Executive Director Cristine Kelly, Artistic Director Gregory Vajda, the MIM board and staff, the 32nd SummerFest season lasts from June 11-July 3 with 10 concerts that span the musical globe.

“From Beethoven to Queen, we’ve got an extraordinary lineup for SummerFest 2013,” says Kelly. MIM also is showcasing more local talent, she adds.

On June 30, the orchestra performs Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9with the MIM Chorale. A day earlier, the orchestra and chorus play the music of Queen with guest soloists at the Nevada County Fairgrounds.

“We will rock you!” MIM promises. Along with its festivals, MIM has built a highly regarded education program and calendar of successful benefit events. This year’s examples include the young musicians competition showcase on May 5. The competition was first held in 1987.

In addition to music from Beethoven and Queen, the SummerFest lineup includes:

June 11, 14 The Young Composers Concert
These concerts culminate a year of study in MIM’s composing program, premering 25 new works by their students.

June 21 Classical I: Rodrigo, Ravel & Bizet
The opening classical concert featuring internationally acclaimed guitar virtuoso Gyan Riley in a soulful Spanish classic.

June 22 Family Music Faire
A “kid-friendly” concert followed by a free lunch and fair activities. Free.

June 22 ChickenBonz & Three Leg Torso
Local band ChickenBonz kicks off this energetic concert, followed by gypsy chamber music.

June 23 Classical II. The Passionate Piano
Glazunov’s Summer, Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition and Chopin’s Concerto No. 1. June 27Musical Book Club Music and literature combine in this “book club” informal concert. Music of Copland, McKinley and a little ragtime and jazz.

July 1 Wet Ink
New works from the talented local composing community. Co-presented with Nevada County Composers’ Cooperative.

July 3 Happy Birthday USA
Celebrate the Fourth of July with the MIM Chorus and Orchestra, with a picnic at the county Fairgrounds and favorite patriotic tunes.
For more information, visit MusicintheMountains.org

Sierra Stages’ Avenue Q
Sierra Stages presents Avenue Q at the Nevada Theatre from July 10-August 3. Puppets mix with humins in this laugh-out-loud musical that tells the timeless tale of a recent college grad trying to find his purpose in life.