The 38th Annual Sanibel Music Festival is set to captivate audiences with a stellar lineup of globally acclaimed performers. Running from March 1–22, the festival will host six exceptional performances on select Tuesdays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. at the Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ.
This year’s festival also marks a milestone in the region’s recovery following Hurricane Ian. “We believe the arts are a compelling force in the positive recovery of our region,” stated festival organizers.
Special Pre-Festival Event
Ahead of the March series, the festival will host the 50th Anniversary Luminary Concert, All is Bright, on December 6 from 4–6 p.m. at the church. Featuring Florida Gulf Coast University musicians, this event is part of Sanibel’s yearlong anniversary celebrations.
2024 Gala Benefit
The festival officially opens on March 1 with a Gala Benefit titled Celebrating Sanibel Music Festival’s Return to the Island. This special evening features cellist David Finckel and pianist Wu Han, recipients of the prestigious Musical America’s Musicians of the Year Award. Known for their unparalleled artistry, the duo has performed at top venues worldwide, showcasing an extensive repertoire that spans classical masterpieces to contemporary works.
Additional Gala Activities:
- Feb. 28: Private cocktail party at 6 p.m.
- March 1: AfterGlo Reception following the performance
Gala Benefit passes are available for $250 per person, including access to the private cocktail party, performance, and reception. Tickets for the performance and reception alone are $75.
2024 Concert Series Lineup
March 4: Jon Nakamatsu
Gold medalist of the 1997 Van Cliburn International Piano Competition, Nakamatsu has performed with leading orchestras and ensembles worldwide. His repertoire spans solo, chamber, and orchestral works, and he has released 13 highly praised recordings.
March 8: Horszowski Trio
Renowned for their dynamic performances and innovative programming, the Horszowski Trio has toured extensively across North America, Europe, and Asia. Named in honor of legendary pianist Mieczysław Horszowski, their music bridges traditional and contemporary compositions.
March 11: 2025 Chopin Piano Competition Winner
Experience the brilliance of the 11th National Chopin Piano Competition gold medalist, offering one of their first performances following the prestigious Miami competition. The event celebrates emerging talent and the enduring legacy of Chopin’s music.
March 18: Opera Theater of Connecticut
This performance showcases the works of Broadway legends John Kander and Fred Ebb, creators of iconic musicals like Chicago and Cabaret. Their compositions have defined generations of theatre and cinema, including collaborations with stars like Liza Minnelli and Frank Sinatra.
March 22: Isidore String Quartet
Winners of the 2023 Avery Fisher Career Grant and 14th Banff International String Quartet Competition, the quartet brings fresh interpretations of classical works. Inspired by the legendary Juilliard String Quartet, they are redefining the string quartet tradition for modern audiences.
Ticket Information
- Individual Concert Tickets: $50 (adults), $25 (students)
- Discount Packages: Available for multiple performances
- Encore Society Membership: Contributions of $1,000+ grant special benefits
For more details or to purchase tickets, visit the official website at www.sanibelmusicfestival.org.
Event Location
Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ
2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL
The Sanibel Music Festival continues to enrich the region with world-class performances, celebrating the resilience and vibrancy of the community. Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy unforgettable music in the heart of Sanibel!
