Golden Gate Park continues its legacy of free public concerts this summer, inviting everyone to enjoy the magic of live music in San Francisco. The lineup at the Golden Gate Bandshell promises to be a season of musical enchantment you won’t want to miss. Pack a picnic, bring your loved ones, and enjoy melodies for every taste in Golden Gate Park.
I had a look at Golden Gate Park Band’s calendar and picked out some notable selections for June, July, and August. Other than the festival June 8 and 9, all concerts featured here begin at 1 p.m.
June 2: Trumpet Palooza
Trumpet Palooza promises an electrifying concert featuring pieces like Leroy Anderson’s “Bugler’s Holiday” and Robert Russell Bennett’s “Rose Variations.” Soloists Eric Wayne and Dr. German Gonzalez will add their talents for an afternoon of brass brilliance.
June 8–9: Golden Gate Park Band Festival
Dive into a weekend of musical delights with the Golden Gate Park Band Festival, running from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days. The June 9th concert, “A Festival of Favorites,” will kick off the festivities with beloved pieces that have stood the test of time.
June 16: Juneteenth and Father’s Day Concert
Celebrate Juneteenth and Father’s Day with a concert honoring African American composers. Enjoy the soulful works of Katahj Copley, the classical music of William Grant Still, the jazz of Duke Ellington, and the ragtime melodies of Scott Joplin in a tribute to their legacies.
July 7: Treasures of the Band World
Immerse yourself in the heritage of band music with “Treasures of the Band World.” The concert will feature the “Suite of Old American Dances” by Robert Russell Bennett, a journey through America’s musical past.
July 14: Disney Magic: Band Fantastic
This special concert features timeless music from beloved Disney classics such as Encanto, Frozen, Moana, Mary Poppins, The Lion King, Toy Story, and many more.
July 21: Something Old, New, Borrowed & Blue
Experience an evening of varied musical styles, from classical overtures to syncopated rhythms. The diverse program includes:
- Wedding March by John Philip Sousa
- Overture to Italian in Algiers by Gioachino Rossini
- The Syncopated Clock by Leroy Anderson
- 3 Ayres from Gloucester by Hugh M. Stuart
- Who’s Who in Navy Blue by John Philip Sousa
- Wedding Dance by Jacques Press
August 4: Concert honoring Neighborhood Emergency Response Teams
Enjoy an evening of music featuring works by The Beatles, Gershwin, Frank Erickson, and more. This event is a tribute to those who work to keep our community safe and prepared for emergencies.
August 11: Kilts, Ceilidhs, Castles, & Haggis
Experience the folk music and traditional dances of Scotland, featuring the Dunsmuir Scottish Dancers. The program includes:
- Scotland The Brave by Clifford Williams
- Holyrood by Kenneth Alford
- Four Scottish Dances by Malcolm Arnold
- A Scottish Rhapsody by Clare Grundman
August 18: Saint Stephen’s Day Celebration of Hungarian culture
I couldn’t find an expanded entry on this event, but it’s been taking place since at least 2019 and is calendared for 2024. Prior itineraries included:
- Traditional Hungarian Folk Songs
- Segments from the rock opera István a Király
- Selections from The Merry Widow
- Three captivating Hungarian Dances
Whether you’re a seasoned concert-goer or a first-time visitor, the diverse lineup of free concerts promises something for everyone. From the lively tunes of Disney classics to the stirring rhythms of Scottish dances and the rich heritage of Hungarian songs, each event offers a unique experience that brings people together. The Golden Gate Park Bandshell continues to be a gathering place where music lovers of all ages and backgrounds can come together to enjoy world-class performances without a price tag.
Saul Sugarman is editor in chief of The Bold Italic.
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