2026 Festival Schedule

The 2026 season opens with Sir Stephen Hough, performing Beethoven’s “Waldstein” Sonata, Schumann’s Carnaval, and more. With a distinguished career spanning over 40 years, Hough was the first classical performer to be given a MacArthur Fellowship and was awarded a Knighthood for Services to Music in 2022.

Returning to the Festival after their triumphant 2023 performance, the Academy of St Martin in the Fields and their music director Joshua Bell will present two different programs this summer. Don’t miss either night of this internationally renowned orchestra, known for their brilliant interpretations of the world’s greatest music.

Alisa Weilerstein is one of the foremost cellists of our time, known for her consummate artistry, emotional investment, and rare interpretive depth. She is joined by Inon Barnatan “one of the most admired pianists of his generation” (The New York Times).

The King’s Singers have set the gold standard in a cappella singing on the world’s greatest stages for over 55 years. They are renowned for their unrivaled technique, musicianship, and versatility, bringing an extraordinary range of new and unique works to life.

Mark your calendars for the biggest event of the summer! The Minnesota Orchestra is back with the annual free pops concert at Lake Park. Pack a picnic, bring your lawn chairs, and enjoy world-class music at this Festival tradition.

Violinist Leonidas Kavakos is recognized across the world as an artist of rare quality, acclaimed for his matchless technique, captivating artistry, superb musicianship, and the integrity of his playing. His program includes Franck’s Violin Sonata, as well as works by Stravinsky, Mozart, and Beethoven.

Winning both the Gold Medal and the Audience Award at the 2025 Cliburn International Piano Competition, Aristo Sham exudes astounding intellect and a deep emotional resonance. Taking on the great monuments of the piano repertoire with a natural, infectious spontaneity, Sham will present works by Rachmaninov, Chopin, and more.

A recipient of the prestigious Cleveland Quartet Award, the Ariel Quartet has garnered critical praise worldwide for more than twenty years. Distinguished by its virtuosity, probing musical insight, and impassioned, fiery interpretations, Ariel will perform an all-Beethoven program.

Our 2026 season draws to a close with the Minnesota Orchestra. The Grammy Award-winning group, now in its second century, has long ranked among America’s top symphonic ensembles, with a distinguished history of acclaimed performances in Minnesota and around the world. Don’t miss this incredible Festival finale!