Each summer, the Festival becomes a rare gathering place where composers, musicians, conductors, and audiences meet in shared purpose. In 2025, we brought the work of more than 25 living composers to life—most of them in residence here in Santa Cruz—creating a vibrant, human ecosystem where ideas are heard for the first time, refined, and amplified.
Our composers describe what we do best:
In times of uncertainty, dreaming is an act of courage, resistance, and even power. Despite dwindling federal and grant funding for orchestral music and attacks on free speech and the cultural sector, we are certain in our commitment to our values and unwavering in our support of our composers, musicians, and everyone in our creative community.
Cabrillo Festival exists because composers dare to imagine what’s possible—and because a community like ours believes those dreams matter. When people come together in shared purpose, new music is not only written, but truly heard.
As we look ahead, we invite you to dream with us.
Save the date for our 2026 season: July 26—Aug 9, 2026
Youth Ensemble
Applications are open for our 2026 Youth Ensemble Program. Learn More and APPLY TODAY!
FESTIVAL STORE
Looking for meaningful gifts for your music lover this season? From cozy hoodies to stylish tees, hats and more, the Festival store has just what they want.
Meet the composers
Check out our archive of fascinating conversations between our featured composers and music directors.