From Carnegie Hall to the Kentlands Clubhouse Lawn

How internationally acclaimed artists continue to bring world-class music to our community

Only a few months ago, Music Director Maestro Simeone Tartaglione stood on the podium at Carnegie Hall conducting the Delaware & Maryland Youth Touring Orchestra as part of the prestigious New York Symphonic Invitational, one of Music Celebrations International’s premier festivals featuring outstanding youth orchestras from across the United States. The performance included the world premiere of a work written in honor of America’s 250th birthday, presented in one of the world’s most celebrated concert halls.

Around the same time, internationally acclaimed violin soloist Alessandra Cuffaro appeared on the Carnegie Hall stage with the New York Chamber Players Orchestra in a performance honoring renowned Italian composer Franco Mannino. For Alessandra, the concert carried special personal meaning. Mannino was far more than a celebrated composer. Early in her career, he recognized her extraordinary talent, encouraged her artistic growth, dedicated music to her, and remained a trusted mentor and friend throughout the years. Returning to Carnegie Hall to honor his legacy brought that remarkable musical journey full circle.

Just a few months later, these same artists will once again share the stage.

Not in New York.

Not beneath the chandeliers of Carnegie Hall.

But here, on the Kentlands Clubhouse Lawn, where families unfold lawn chairs, children spread picnic blankets across the grass, neighbors greet one another before the music begins, and a professional orchestra prepares to perform under the evening sky.

That contrast tells the story of Musica Viva better than almost anything else.

A Vision That Began Nearly a Decade Ago

When Maestro Tartaglione first imagined Musica Viva Kentlands, his goal was never simply to present another classical concert. He wanted to remove many of the barriers that often keep people from experiencing live orchestral music.

Concert halls are extraordinary places. Their acoustics are carefully designed. Their quiet is almost reverential. Every detail encourages focused listening.

But for many people, those same traditions can also feel intimidating.

Musica Viva was created to offer something different.

“I wanted Musica Viva to be a place where everyone feels welcome. You don’t need to know anything about classical music to enjoy it—you simply have to open your heart. We wanted to create a concert where people could relax, be themselves, and discover that this music belongs to everyone.”

— Music Director Maestro Simeone Tartaglione

That vision continues to shape every Musica Viva performance.

Here, applause is welcomed whenever excitement overflows. Children dance when the music moves them. Families enjoy a picnic while listening. Friends reconnect before the concert begins. As the sun sets over the Kentlands Clubhouse Lawn, the orchestra and audience become part of the same shared experience.

As Maestro Tartaglione often says, Musica Viva is “a free concert not just because we don’t charge admission, but because you can be yourself.”

World-Class Musicians Close to Home

Every musician performing with Musica Viva is a professional artist.

Collectively, the orchestra includes performers, educators, recording artists, and musicians who appear with respected orchestras throughout the United States and abroad. Their careers have taken them to concert halls and festivals around the world, yet each September they come together in Kentlands to share their artistry with our community.

That commitment reflects the heart of Musica Viva.

The goal has never been to bring audiences to the concert hall.

It has been to bring exceptional music to people.

A Special Return for Alessandra Cuffaro

For many attendees, Alessandra Cuffaro’s solo performance has become one of the most anticipated moments of every Musica Viva concert.

Her performances combine extraordinary technical brilliance with warmth and expressive storytelling, creating an immediate connection with audiences whether they are lifelong classical music enthusiasts or hearing a live orchestra for the very first time.

This year’s program features Pablo de Sarasate’s Zapateado, one of the violin repertoire’s most dazzling virtuoso showpieces.

The selection carries special significance.

Nearly a decade ago, when Musica Viva presented its very first concert on the Kentlands Mansion lawn, Zapateado was the piece Alessandra chose to perform.

Returning to it this September creates a meaningful full-circle moment that connects Musica Viva’s beginnings with its future.

Gallop to Glory

This year’s concert, Gallop to Glory, takes place on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. (Rain date: Sunday, September 20.)

Built around themes of adventure, heroism, and triumph in honor of America’s 250th birthday, the program features favorites including Rossini’s William Tell Overture, Wagner’s Ride of the Valkyries, Dvořák’s Symphony No. 8, and more, performed by a full professional orchestra under the direction of Maestro Tartaglione.

Admission is free.

The concert will also be livestreamed for those unable to attend in person.

Whether you have attended every Musica Viva concert or are considering your first visit, we invite you to experience an evening where internationally acclaimed artists, professional musicians, families, friends, and neighbors come together to celebrate the joy of live orchestral music.

While Carnegie Hall may be one of the world’s great concert venues, one of the most remarkable musical experiences each September happens right here in Kentlands.