The 80th annual Ojai Music Festival, held from June 11 to 14, 2026, marked a significant milestone, celebrating its history while embracing innovation under the direction of Esa-Pekka Salonen. This event, conceived as a Southern California homecoming for Salonen, who recently became creative director of the Los Angeles Philharmonic, saw all his concert appearances and many satellite events completely sold out. His programming, developed in collaboration with retiring Executive and Artistic Director Ara Guzelimian, was praised for its intricate web of connections between compositions, composers, teachers, students, and colleagues, making it a standout festival.
Salonen, who previously served as Ojai's music director in 1999 and 2001, shared the spotlight with longtime colleague John Adams, who was also a music director in 1993 and 2021. Both composers contributed U.S. and world premieres, enriching the festival's 14 meticulously designed concerts. Notable performances included the debut of Adams's "Iron Jig," a nine-minute piece performed by the Attacca Quartet, and the Colburn Orchestra's rendition of Adams's "Chamber Symphony" and Ligeti’s "Violin Concerto" with soloist Leila Josefowicz. Salonen also introduced his new piece "kinema," a five-movement de facto concerto, and "Fog," a piece inspired by Frank Gehry.
The festival's reputation for adventurous and open-minded programming continued, attracting audiences who embrace the unexpected. Guzelimian highlighted the unique aspect of Ojai, where artists can experiment without typical inhibitions. The event also featured performances by past participants like Igor Stravinsky and Olivier Messiaen, and showcased the Colburn School Orchestra, connecting a new generation of musicians with the festival's rich history. Free community events, including a family concert, extended the festival's reach, ensuring its accessibility and appeal.
