Take a jet boat ride down the Colorado River through spectacular red rock canyons to “nature’s own concert hall” (The New York Times) – an acoustically perfect wilderness Grotto carved from the surrounding red rock walls. Hear a program of works chosen specifically for the space, performed by the Festival’s world class artists. A light reception with the musicians precedes the glorious boat ride home.

Concert Description: Mozart and Mendelssohn, just a half-century apart in history, were both considered the most significant musical geniuses of their respective eras. Both were masters of their craft as pianists and composers by a very young age. Mozart’s work is regarded as the culmination of the Classical style, perfect in symmetry, balance, musical architecture, and good taste. Mendelssohn was a pathbreaker in melody, harmony, and musical drama (prodded by Beethoven’s work) of the emerging Romantic era. Both Mozart and Mendelssohn exude infectious positivity and joy in much of their music. Even Mozart’s almost Beethoven-like G minor Piano Quartet first movement resolves all the drama in a wide-grinning, liberated, joyful finale.