The rhythmic dynamism, the soulful melodies, the frenetic forward momentum punctuated with moments of sweet calm—Dvořák’s “New World” Symphony is an expansive sonic and emotional journey, one which the Utah Symphony will be performing during a free concert at Salt Lake City’s Gallivan Center on July 1st.
The Deer Valley Music Festival is the symphony’s best-known summer program. Each year it features a diverse lineup of performances, ranging from classical symphonies and opera highlights to popular music, Broadway hits, and collaborations with renowned guest artists. The performances take place at the Snow Park Outdoor Amphitheater and at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Park City. The outdoor venue provides a relaxed and informal atmosphere, encouraging families and music lovers of all ages to attend.
Celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, the 2024 festival begins on July 5 with a grand opening night at the Snow Park Outdoor Amphitheater. One of the highlights includes “Christmas in July” on July 6, where audiences can enjoy festive tunes and selections from Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker, creating a holiday atmosphere in the summer. On July 20, “Disney in Concert: Once Upon a Time” promises a magical experience with iconic Disney movie music and high-resolution film clips. In addition to these special events, the festival features a tribute to Whitney Houston on July 11, a celebration of trailblazing women of song (Joni Mitchell, Carole King, and Carly Simon) on July 12, and the powerful Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture with live cannons on July 26. Other notable performances include Tower of Power on July 27, Grammy and Tony winner Leslie Odom Jr. on August 3, and singer-songwriter Cody Fry on August 9.
Intimate chamber orchestra concerts will also be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, where classical purists can enjoy performances of Mendelssohn, Schoenberg, Tchaikovsky, Haydn, and Mozart. Additional free pop-up concerts throughout Summit County will ensure a diverse range of musical experiences for all attendees.
The symphony has been warming up for their summer festival with additional outdoor programming along the Wasatch Front. Thanksgiving Point in Lehi, the Utah Cultural Celebration Center in West Valley, and the Sandy Amphitheatre have all been visited by the Symphony recently. On Monday, July 1 (8-9:30 pm) the Symphony visits the Gallivan Center in Salt Lake City for its final concert. In addition to Dvořák, the symphony will be performing selections from Rodgers and Hammerstein’s The Sound of Music and eight pieces from Bizet’s Carmen.
For a full schedule and tickets visit https://deervalleymusicfestival.org/
Images courtesy of Utah Symphony and Opera

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Categories: Music