Festival Mozaic's celebration is so much more than concerts - it's a reunion and camaraderie among people sharing in the joy of music at social events that round out the Festival experience.
Opportunities to connect with friends and the musicians abound. At the
Musicians and Hosts' Welcome Party, musicians, host families and Festival supporters gather at the stunning hilltop home of Lucia Cleveland and Paul Vanderheyden for a Welcome Barbecue. "This is a great kickoff event," says Music Director Scott Yoo. "There is so much excitement in the air - the musicians are thrilled to be back in SLO to see colleagues and friends, host families are eager to welcome new musicians to the community, and everyone is buzzing about the Festival. It just feels like one big, happy family reunion."
Festival supporters will gather to hear Scott Yoo's enthusiastic overview of upcoming activities at
Breakfast with the Music Director at
Novo Restaurant before the Festival. Supporters have the opportunity to attend rehearsals and even sit "inside the orchestra." Opening Night festivities include the
Board of Directors Reception, a gathering at the home of Board President Dwyne Willis.
Throughout the Festival, there are opportunities to make new friends and connect with other music lovers at culinary events preceding the concerts. Chef Charles Myers is a beloved figure on the San Luis Obispo restaurant scene for his support of local producers and farms. Recently featured on the Food Network's
Rachel Ray's Tasty Travels, and hailed by
The New York Times as "arguably San Luis Obispo's most popular restaurant," his
Big Sky Café is a favorite of our community and musicians.
To celebrate the
All-Mozart concert at the Mission (July 23), Chef Myers has created
Dinner in the Piazza, with a menu inspired by specialties of the Austrian culinary tradition. All-inclusive dining includes
Claiborne and Churchill award-winning Dry Gewürztraminer and a luscious Sirah from
Stephen Ross Wine Cellars, two of SLO County's 'boutique' wine producers in the Edna Valley. Family-style seating and a casual atmosphere encourages you to meet and greet new and old friends, all under the arboretum in scenic Mission plaza and steps from that evening's concert.
The final chance to connect and share is the
Closing Brunch, a sumptuous buffet where the Cohan Center Plaza is transformed into a garden setting, with spectacular views of the mountains. Patrons can share the summer's best musical memories and make plans for 2010, the Festival's 40th anniversary.
[Don't miss the 
