What’s Going On?

The Stern Grove Festival has been held in San Francisco for 72 consecutive years. The concerts at Stern Grove are always free, but not cost free. The festival is funded by corporate sponsors as well as sponsors like you. The festival costs an estimated $2 million. Stern Grove can be found on the corner of Sloat Blvd. and 19th Ave. and concerts are on Sundays at 2pm.

This past Sunday I had the opportunity to check out the San Francisco Ballet. Of the ten performances at Stern Grove the concert of choice would have been the San Francisco Symphony. Unfortunately, I was unable to attend the Symphony, but I am glad to have attended the ballet. It was something different and something out of my comfort zone that I was able to enjoy. Although ballet is not on my top ten things to see I’m glad that I experienced a little taste of it. If you ask me to give it another try, I think I would. It might be something

The ballet was divided into three parts with two intermissions. The first selection was On a Theme of Paganini. The second piece was Swan Lake, Act II. The third piece was Stravinsky Violin Concerto. Martin West conducted all pieces.

The last performance in the festival will be this coming Sunday. The San Francisco Opera will be performing and will begin promptly at 2pm. I advise that you get there really early if you wish to see the performance. Seating is limited in the grove, but there is additional seating behind the pavilion. If you wish to see the performance and get there late bring a towel or blanket to sit on as you will have to sit on the dirt on the hill. Visibility is limited in the hills due to the tree branches. Most importantly, bring something to drink and a hat and sun screen is optional, but advisable. Have fun and enjoy.

Martin West conducts the orchestra

On a Theme of Paganini

Swan Lake, Act II

Stravinsky Violin Concerto

Conductor Martin West and Violinist Franklyn D'Antonio

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