Music in May Pop-Up Concerts

What better way to launch Music in May’s 19th season than by launching a new festival event hosted by the legendary Bookshop Santa Cruz? Think of these string orchestra community pop-up concerts as an impromptu classical “reading party” among new and old friends. There will be 2 performances on May 27, 2026. The first pop-up concert is from 11:00-11:30 a.m. and the second is from 12:00-12:30 p.m. featuring members of the Ensemble San Francisco String Quartet alongside local talent, each with a distinct program for strings and a different 19-member ensemble of musicians. A 30-minute “intermission” provides an opportunity for musicians and friends to connect and engage with one another.

It’s a reading party [no conductor], so there will be no ensemble rehearsal but individual advance preparation will surely make this a memorable “on stage” adventure! 

All of the music and concert notes are posted under the tab REPERTOIRE. There are parts for Violin 1 and 2, Viola, Cello and Bass. That will allow you to review the music and determine whether or not you are comfortable with the selections.   In total we will be selecting musicians as follows for each concert:

• 1st Violin  - 5
• 2nd Violin - 3
• Viola -  3
• Cello   - 3
• Bass - 1

There is no cost to participate other than your time.  So review the musical scores posted above and decide if you have the time and skill to devote to the repertoire.  Remember - this is supposed to be fun and community "pop-ups" are almost never "perfect". 

If you are interested in participating please complete the registration form with your personal contact information and instrument selection. Selection of participants for each concert will be via lottery for each instrument.  

Sign up by March 1st and we will notify selected players by March 9th. Registering for the concert does not guarantee participation. You will be notified of the lottery results to guarantee your participation.