An inspiring week of music unfolds through dynamic performances for solo piano, two pianos, and four hands—spanning continents, styles, and eras. From the vibrant colors of Latin America to the elegance of the classical tradition and the irresistible rhythms of American classics, each concert offers a distinct and memorable musical journey.
New Horizons: A Journey for Two Pianos at Oaktree Pavilion
Elizondo • Bach • Piazzolla
A rich and compelling two-piano program that moves from the vibrant colors of Mexico to the grandeur of Bach’s Passacaglia, and into the fiery rhythms of Argentine tango. Bold, expressive, and deeply engaging.
American Pie: From Gershwin to the Silver Screen (Solo Keyboard) Outdoor at the Bazar
Gershwin • Joplin • Billy Joel
A high-energy, feel-good program full of rhythm, charm, and virtuosity—from jazzy Gershwin preludes and classic ragtime to the iconic sounds of Broadway and film. Bold, stylish, and irresistibly fun.
Around the World in Four Hands (Piano Duet) Outdoor Concert
Mozart • Mahle • Piazzolla
An intimate and joyful four-hand program that travels from the elegance of Mozart to the vibrant colors of Brazil and the passion of tango. Playful, communicative, and perfect for a relaxed evening under the stars.
Duo Mundi: George & Gulimina
Duo Mundi captivates audiences worldwide with their dynamic artistry and bold, innovative programming. Praised for performances that “…breathe the same artistic air…with an adrenaline of communication that captivates audiences of every generation,” the duo creates beautifully synchronized experiences that engage both the eye and ear.
Since their inception, they have performed to standing-room-only audiences across Mexico, China, Brazil, Switzerland, and Italy, including a feature on Italian national television (RAI2). Their 2023 debut at Steinway Hall in New York City marked a major milestone, followed by appearances at the Oculus at One World Trade Center, The Village Trip Festival, and Third Street Settlement Music School. They have also presented a groundbreaking Steinway & Sons SpirioCast connecting audiences in Boston and Philadelphia.
On the West Coast, they have appeared at Santa Barbara’s historic Lobero Theatre and performed throughout Seattle and Baja California. Their reach extends beyond the stage through radio broadcasts such as All Classical Portland’s Thursdays @ Three. Dedicated educators and cultural ambassadors, they present masterclasses and lectures internationally and have reached over a thousand students through outreach initiatives in Belize. In 2024, they launched a Klavierfest at Bowdoin College exploring the impact of A.I. on music. With each performance, Duo Mundi continues to redefine the piano duo experience, bridging cultures and generations.
George Lopez
George Lopez is Artist in Residence and Symphony Orchestra Director at Bowdoin College. Known for his “kaleidoscopic colors and clarity of conception” (Los Angeles Times), he is celebrated for his refined and thoughtfully curated performances. His debut at the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam was praised as “authentic and memorable” for his interpretations of Bach and Chopin.
His expansive repertoire includes the complete Mozart sonatas, Beethoven piano concertos, Rachmaninoff’s Etudes-Tableaux, Chopin’s Etudes and Ballades, and Bach’s Klavierübungen, performed across organ, harpsichord, and piano. He has performed internationally throughout Europe, Latin America, Asia, Australia, and the United States, appearing at venues such as Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, Merkin Hall, Benaroya Hall, and Ambassador Hall.
Lopez has been featured at major festivals worldwide and has appeared as a soloist with orchestras including the National Symphony of São Paolo and the Prague Chamber Orchestra. He collaborates regularly with members of leading ensembles such as the New York Philharmonic and Chicago Symphony. He holds top honors from the École Normale de Musique in Paris and the Sweelinck Conservatorium in Amsterdam, and is a dedicated mentor to the next generation of musicians.
Gulimina Mahamuti
Gulimina Mahamuti has performed on international stages from Carnegie Hall to major venues in Montreal, Copenhagen, Beijing, Istanbul, and Budapest. As a soloist, she has appeared with orchestras including the Southeast Kansas Symphony, Mansfield Symphony, and Harbin Philharmonic.
Her performances have been featured on radio and media outlets across the U.S., China, and Turkey, including Maine Public Radio and San Francisco’s classical stations, as well as a two-part television documentary in China.
She earned her Doctor of Musical Arts in Piano Performance from the University of Missouri–Kansas City, becoming the first Uyghur pianist from China to receive this degree in the United States. She also holds two master’s degrees with highest honors. A passionate educator and advocate for diverse musical traditions, she teaches at Bowdoin College and has published in Clavier Companion, along with her acclaimed album Xinjiang Piano Music from Western China.
Claudia Russell, a celebrated California troubadour, and her husband Bruce Kaplan, a master of electric guitar and mandolin, form an enchanting duo that brings a tapestry of Americana sounds to life. With Claudia’s angelic voice and Bruce’s intricate accompaniments, they create music that resonates with both the heart and soul. Based in the Bay Area, Claudia and Bruce take their audiences on a musical odyssey through the diverse landscapes of American music. Their journey pays homage to the iconic sounds of Laurel Canyon, the historic folk of Greenwich Village, the soulful essence of blues divas, and the rustic charm of Bakersfield’s country scene. At the core of this journey is Claudia’s evocative voice, her skillful guitar playing, and their shared talent for storytelling through music. Since their debut in 2000, this dynamic duo has captivated listeners in over 1000 performances across the United States, from intimate clubs to major festivals and everything in between. Their music, known for its genuine emotion and captivating melodies, has not only thrilled live audiences but has also been celebrated in esteemed circles. Claudia has twice been a finalist in the prestigious Kerrville New Folk competition, and their artistry has been recognized in American Songwriter, Sing Out, and even on NPR’s All Things Considered. As they prepare to grace the stage at Rancho La Puerta, Claudia Russell and Bruce Kaplan promise an unforgettable musical experience that harmonizes the spirit of Americana with the charm of this Mexican paradise. Their performance will be a journey through song, inviting listeners to explore the richness of American music and the intimate stories that make their artistry so unique. Join us for an evening of soul-stirring music and discover why Claudia Russell and Bruce Kaplan are not just performers but true musical storytellers.
Jessie Chang is an accomplished pianist who has received top honors in more than thirty prestigious national and international competitions, including numerous first prizes. She is the first pianist to win four gold medals at the U.S. Open Music Competition. A highlight of her career includes an appearance at the Blossom Festival with The Cleveland Orchestra. She has also been featured at Carnegie Hall’s Isaac Stern Auditorium, Pasadena’s Ambassador Auditorium, and before an audience of 28,000 at Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta. Jessie has performed with numerous orchestras, including the San Diego Symphony, Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, The Florida Orchestra, Rhode Island Philharmonic Orchestra, Westchester Philharmonic, Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra, China Philharmonic Orchestra, Singapore Symphony Orchestra, Jakarta Simfonia Orchestra, and the Guangzhou Symphony Orchestra.has received top honors in more than thirty distinguished piano competitions of national and international stature, including various first prizes.
ng Yan is a cellist and dedicated music teacher who began her studies at age six with her father. She later trained at the Tianjin Conservatory and the Central Conservatory of Music in Beijing, earning top prizes in both China and the United States, including first place in the La Jolla Young Artists Competition. She went on to receive her Bachelor and Master of Music degrees from Boston University, where she studied with Leslie Parnas. Ling has performed widely as a soloist and orchestral musician, serving as principal cellist with several Colorado ensembles, including the Boulder Philharmonic and Colorado Ballet Orchestra, and performing with orchestras in California such as the Pacific Symphony and Long Beach Symphony. She has appeared as a soloist in both the United States and China. She is the founder and longtime member of the Harmonium Trio, with whom she has performed a diverse repertoire throughout California. Passionate about teaching, Ling is devoted to helping young musicians grow not only in technique, but also in confidence, expression, and artistry. She is also a frequent judge for string competitions.
Martha Aarons’ professional career began with her appointment as principal flute of the North Carolina Symphony. Subsequently she played with the Cleveland Orchestra for 25 years. After becoming a freelancer, she performed often with the Philadelphia Orchestra. During this time, she appeared as guest principal flute with the Metropolitan Opera, Minnesota Orchestra, Milwaukee Symphony, San Diego Symphony, Baltimore Symphony, and Mostly Mozart Festival. Ms. Aarons served as Artist Faculty with the Aspen Music Festival for 19 years. Her teaching credits include the Cleveland Institute of Music, Duke University, University of North Carolina/Chapel Hill, Oberlin College, Skidmore College, Shanghai Conservatory and Eastman School of Music. She has been soloist with the Cleveland Orchestra, North Carolina Symphony, Ohio Chamber Orchestra, and with the Aspen Festival Chamber and Festival orchestras. Her first solo CD, The History of the Tango, is recorded on the Azica label and additionally features pianist Frances Renzi and Grammy-winning guitarist Jason Vieaux. Her newest release is the CD Last Silence with violinist Lev Polyakin and pianist Frances Renzi. Martha is also an avid runner and just ran her sixth consecutive Boston Marathon in April 2026!
Lev Polyakin was appointed co-concertmaster of the Moscow Chamber Orchestra at age 21. In that position he was regularly featured as soloist. In the U.S. he served as assistant concertmaster of the Cleveland Orchestra, as well as concertmaster of the American Academy of Conducting in Aspen Music Festival. Lev has won several prizes in international violin competitions, including the Beethoven Prize in Carl Flesch in London, and Gold Medal and Special Prize in Brescia, Italy. In addition to solo performances with the Moscow Chamber Orchestra, he has appeared as soloist with the London Mozart Players, Royal Philharmonic, and Cleveland Orchestra. Recording credits include Melodia, BBC, National Public Radio, and Decca. He is prominently featured on an album entitled Cafe Music comprising chamber music by Paul Schoenfield, which was nominated for a Grammy. Lev has a special interest in jazz and has recorded three CDs, entitled Russian Blue, The Other Side of the Road, and Christmas Kaleidoscope. He is also featured in the recent release by Azica Records entitled Last Silence, with flutist Martha Aarons and pianist Frances Renzi.
Percussionist, conductor, and author Steven Schick, hailed by Alex Ross in the New Yorker as, “one of our supreme living virtuosos, not just of percussion but of any instrument,” has championed contemporary percussion music by commissioning or premiering more than one hundred-fifty new works. Steven Schick is artistic director of the La Jolla Symphony and Chorus and the San Francisco Contemporary Music Players. As a conductor, he has appeared with the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, the Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra, the Milwaukee Symphony, Ensemble Modern, the International Contemporary Ensemble, and the Asko/Schönberg Ensemble. He is the curator of, and was most recently conductor and percussion soloist in, “It’s About Time,” a festival of the San Diego Symphony held in January of 2018. Schick’s publications include a book, The Percussionist’s Art: Same Bed, Different Dreams, and many articles. He has released numerous recordings including the 2010 “Percussion Works of Iannis Xenakis,” and its companion, “The Complete Early Percussion Works of Karlheinz Stockhausen” in 2014. He received the “Diapason d’Or” as conductor (Xenakis Ensemble Music with ICE) and the Deutscheschallplattenkritikpreis, as percussionist (Stockhausen), each for the best new music release of 2015. He was inducted into the Percussive Arts Society Hall of Fame in 2014. Steven Schick is Distinguished Professor of Music and holds the Reed Family Presidential Chair at the University of California, San Diego. He was music director of the 2015 Ojai Festival, and in 2017, the co-artistic director, with Claire Chase, of the Summer Music Program at the Banff Centre. In 2018 Schick became the Artistic Director of the Breckenridge Music Festival.
Corina Rose is a singer/songwriter from San Diego and “Our Love is Freedom” is her third album to be released and according to her “it’s the first album that is very intentional.” The theme of the album is Love-universal, transcendent, energetic and passionate. Each song represents a different facet of Love, Love for humanity and each other.
There are songwriters who chronicle life; 
David S. Sobel, MD, MPH, is Adjunct Lecturer, Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, and Visiting Scholar at Stanford’s Center for Advanced Study in Behavioral Sciences (CASBS). He was Director of Patient Education and Health Promotion for Kaiser Permanente Northern California which serves over 4 million members and practiced adult primary care medicine. Dr. Sobel completed a Bachelor’s degree in psychology (University of Michigan), medical education (University of California San Francisco), medical internship (Presbyterian Hospital-Pacific Medical Center), Masters in Public Health and a residency program in General Preventive Medicine (UC Berkeley). His research and teaching interests include medical self-care, patient education, preventive medicine, behavioral medicine and psychosocial factors in health. He has written ten books: including The Healing Brain, Healthy Pleasures, The Mind & Body Health Handbook, Ways of Health: Holistic Approaches to Ancient and Contemporary Medicine, and Living a Healthy Life with Chronic Conditions. Dr. Sobel’s more than 200 television appearances to educate the public about health issues include the Today Show, CNN, Hour Magazine, and a television news segment on an ABC news affiliate station in San Jose. He also served as an invited delegate to the Congress that generated the Ottawa Charter on Health Promotion. He has provided over 500 invited keynote lectures in a variety of professional and public venues including the World Health Organization (W.H.O.), American Hospital Association, National Institutes for Health, National Health Service (NHS UK), UCSF, Stanford, Harvard, and Esalen Institute.
Wil-son Williams is a Philadelphia native who began performing at the early age of 8 with The Next Generation Dance Company under Stephan Love and Leon Evens. Excelling in tap, jazz, and African genres, Wil has performed at The Apollo Theater in Harlem, New York, and has made a guest appearance on the television talk show “People Talk.” In addition, he has trained under world-renowned entertainers Maurice Hines, Jaye Allison, and Delphine Mantz—all before reaching high school. Wil continued his dance education with ballet and modern techniques at the High School of Creative and Performing Arts Philadelphia (CAPA High).
Juan Pablo Andrade, a prominent Costa Rican pianist, enjoys a dynamic presence both on stage and in the academic realm. Recognized with several prestigious awards, including the Costa Rican National Prize of Music— the highest honor bestowed upon a musician by the Costa Rican Ministry of Culture. He has also received top honors at international competitions like the Artlivre International Piano Competition in Sao Paulo, Brazil, and the Carlos Enrique Vargas National Piano Competition in Costa Rica. With a performance schedule that spans several continents, Andrade has played as a soloist with various orchestras. He is also a familiar face with the Costa Rican National Symphony. His recital tours have taken him through the Americas and Europe, with standout performances at the Yehudi Menuhin Forum in Bern, Switzerland, the World Piano Conference in Novi Sad, Serbia, and a solo recital tour in South America. His CD “War to Peace” with violinist Betul Soykan, has been warmly received by critics, including a notable review in Fanfare magazine. In the academic realm, Andrade serves as a Professor of Piano at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, where he brings his rich performance experiences into the classroom. His commitment to music education extends beyond his university role, frequently serving as a guest faculty at international festivals and founding the La Frontera International Piano Conference in Brownsville, Texas. This event underscores his passion for enriching the cultural tapestry of the region and providing platforms for musical exchange.
Linda Chávez is a distinguished Mexican-American pianist. She holds degrees from the University of Texas at Brownsville and Longy School of Music in Cambridge, Massachusetts. A laureate of an impressive array of awards, grants, and scholarships, Miss Chávez has crafted a career that epitomizes excellence in both performance and education. Her talents have garnered her coveted invitations to international festivals as diverse as Costa Rica, Italy, Aruba, Austria, Puerto Rico, and Lincoln Center in New York City. Currently, Ms. Chávez is the principal pianist for the Valley Symphony Orchestra. Additionally, she is the visionary founder and enthusiastic proprietor of the Brownsville Piano Studio, South Texas’ premiere institution dedicated to piano education. Under her guidance, the studio provides instruction to over 225 students each week. Her entrepreneurial spirit also led to the creation of Ananda Music Experience, an innovative online music program tailored for adult women who aspire to learn music in a mindful and enriching environment. Linda Chávez continues to inspire and make a profound impact in the world of music; fostering positive change through music is a hallmark of her distinguished career.
Dr. Lani Simpson DC, CCD, is a Certified Clinical Densitometrist (analyzes bone density exams), chiropractor and author of the best-selling book, Dr. Lani’s No Nonsense Bone Health Guide. In 2016, her PBS show: Stronger Bones, Longer Life was aired nationally. She herself was diagnosed with osteoporosis in her mid-40’s and as an avid biker, runner, and tennis player she had never fractured a bone. Her own diagnosis set her on a course to learn about the complexities of bone health. She went on to develop a well-rounded diagnostic approach that includes bone density testing, lab tests, nutritional analysis, and exercise. She learned that there is no one-size-fits-all approach, and she supports the wise use of bone medications. It is her life’s mission to educate the public regarding osteoporosis prevention, and an osteoporosis diagnosis so that they are better able to advocate for themselves with their healthcare providers. Now at the age of 75, Dr. Simpson continues to teach bone-related courses and she is still fracture free.
Alternately cast as the ”lost love child of Leonard Cohen and Nancy Sinatra” and “PJ Harvey at her mostirate, teeth-bared,” Vera Sola makes timeless, time-bending sound. With an ethereal voice and a haunting body of song, Vera Sola is back with ‘Peacemaker’, her sophomore album set for release on 2nd February,2024. Stream the latest singles ‘Desire Path’ and ‘The Line’ now.
Phoebe Hunt and Dominick Leslie bring charm and virtuosity to the stage as their original music touches on the roots of American music winding from jazz to country, from swing to bluegrass and even touching on world music with eastern influences with ease and grace. Independently the two have traveled with a number of bands, touring through the States as well as internationally. Best known for her TEDx talks around the healing power of music and as front woman of her band, Phoebe Hunt & The Gatherers, Hunt is a top-shelf fiddler and songwriter who spends her time between performances holding space for others to grow through the power of music. Drawing from 30 years spent studying the violin/fiddle, Hunt’s latest release interweaves her classical upbringing with Appalachian Old Time, Texas Swing, and a maturity of songwriting that creates an unfiltered, raw expression dripping with palpable vulnerability. “Hunt certainly doesn’t neglect her roots, but she doesn’t wallow in the dirt of her influences, either.” – Rolling Stone| Colorado native Dominick Leslie has been around live music all his life, having attended his first bluegrass festival when he was just five months old. Best known as a touring member of GRAMMY award winning bluegrass band, Molly Tuttle and Golden Highway, Dominick Leslie has been involved with many outstanding projects over the years including The Deadly Gentlemen, The Grant Gordy Quartet, Missy Raines and the New Hip, The Bee Eaters, Noam Pikelny & Friends, Hawktail, Sam Reider and the Human Hands, Phoebe Hunt and the Gatherers and several other spontaneous groups.
Mark Hixon
Toby Salk knew it was time for reinvention after the end of a long-term corporate job. She tried on all of the hats she’d worn throughout her life, seeing if one might fit again. One night, she was sitting at a dinner party with a successful bakery owner. She looked at her squarely in the eye and said, “You should be teaching Mah Jongg.” Before Toby could protest, she offered her bakery in the evenings for her first class. Experimenting on friends first, she then organized her first class at Sweet Adeline Bakery and had to turn people away. It was a huge success. Now she is teaching all over the Bay Area, including two exclusive women’s clubs on Union Square, Berkeley Adult School, Orinda Park and Rec, and private homes.
Chef Vivian Mercado is a young culinary talent with roots deeply intertwined with the vibrant flavors of her homeland, Baja California. Graduating from the Culinary School at the University of Baja California UABC in Ensenada, Vivian embarked on a culinary journey that began by honing her skills at a wholesome meal prep kitchen. Eager to explore the diverse tapestry of local Baja flavors, she took the role of a young manager at a culinary venture, where she delved into the realms of local wines, specialty coffee and artisanal bread. After three enriching years, Vivian returned to Tecate, where she found her culinary sanctuary at Rancho La Puerta. Starting at Tierra Alegre Juice Bar, Vivian delighted our guests with delicious and nutritious smoothies and cold pressed juice creations; a year later she had the opportunity to join the main Rancho La Puerta kitchen as Sous Chef for three years. Now, at La Cocina que Canta, Head Chef Vivian brings her expertise, creativity, and unwavering passion for culinary excellence to every dish she crafts, to every class she teaches.
Robert Sherman is President of Robert Sherman Fitness LLC., a personal training, group fitness, and studio management consulting company. Robert’s primary clientele is focused on training for balance, mobility, cardio, yoga, and strength as we age. He has authored articles and spoken to active aging populations about his method called Aging Strong, centered around longevity, at conferences such as AARP and the National Diabetes Foundation. He is a content creator, instructor, and Program Lead for Core Health and Fitness (Schwinn, StairMaster, Nautilus, and Throwdown). He has served as a Master Instructor and program developer globally for Reebok, SPRI, Beachbody, and Total Gym. With 43 years in health, he is a much sought-after program consultant and speaker, serving on the Industry Advisory Panel for the American Council on Exercise and as a content provider/consultant for Boutique Fitness Solutions. Robert played collegiate baseball, holds a BS degree in business from the University of Maryland, and is a Gold Certified Personal Trainer and Fitness Instructor by ACE and ACSM.