“Gardens and music both hold the power to cultivate the soul, tending to our innermost thoughts and emotions.”
  — Henry David Thoreau

When we were emerging from the pandemic, the only possibility for live performances, and thus the only initial possibility for personal connection, was found in our gardens.

It was a beautiful first step back toward normalcy, an act of courage born of our need to come together in musical fellowship, and the gardens were the perfect setting for this reconnection.

Our 2024-25 season continues our tradition of garden concerts in September, with five concerts in some of the most beautiful private garden settings in Portland!

A couple of changes this year:

• We’re limiting the seating capacity significantly to alleviate parking challenges for our hosts, and to maximize the concert experience for you, our beloved patrons.
• We’ve added a fifth concert, Emily Cole’s It’s a String Thing, performed in the stunningly beautiful garden of Karen Hinsdale and Michael Preisz.

Since we tend to sell out these concerts, even with past larger capacities, we encourage you to get your tickets now, in order not to miss out!
 

Galatis in the Garden
September 1, 6pm
Ellson Residence

Our dear friend Zach Galatis returns as the star of the show in the Ellson’s Willamette riverside garden, where he’ll bring the magic of Broadway to life in their spectacular outdoor setting. As the first event in our garden concert series, Zach’s performance of classic Broadway songs promises to be a captivating experience, blending his extraordinary vocal talent with the natural beauty of the garden, setting the perfect tone for what will surely be a memorable series of concerts.  
 
 

Harmonie
September 8, 6pm
Blessinger Residence

In the spirit of the Harmonie house bands that graced the grand estates of aristocratic families during Mozart’s time, the Arcturus Winds will revive this elegant tradition in Ron and Ann’s classic Irvington garden. Just as those ensembles provided the musical backdrop for social gatherings and special events centuries ago, our wind octet will deliver a mesmerizing performance that transports guests to an era of refined musical artistry.  
 
 

Flute and Friends
September 15, 6pm
Celsi Residence

Flute and Friends promises to be a delightful celebration of chamber music in the picturesque garden of David and Eve Celsi. This unique concert will showcase the flute alongside the warm tones of the marimba, the rich resonance of the cello, and the ethereal sound of the harp. Each piece in the program highlights the flute’s versatility and its beautiful interplay with these diverse instruments. As the music drifts through the garden, guests will be enveloped in a serene and harmonious atmosphere, creating an unforgettable evening of musical elegance.  
 
 

Musical Tasting Menu
September 22, 6pm
Furnary Residence

Musical Tasting Menu offers a one-of-a-kind experience where the audience takes the lead in curating the evening's program. Set in the stunning garden of Tony and Julie Furnary, this concert invites guests to select from a diverse “menu” of musical pieces, creating a personalized journey through different styles and genres. This innovative event promises an evening of discovery and connection, set against the backdrop of a truly enchanting garden.  
 
 

It’s a String Thing
September 29, 6pm
Hinsdale/Preisz Residence

It‘s a String Thing is a captivating program of chamber music, meticulously curated by Oregon Symphony violinist Emily Cole. Set in the breathtaking garden of Karen Hinsdale and Michael Preisz, this concert serves as the grand finale of our garden series. The enchanting melodies, played by a talented ensemble of string musicians, will harmonize beautifully with the natural surroundings, creating an unforgettable evening of music and nature intertwined.

Ron Blessinger
Violinist, 45^th Parallel Universe