(Image courtesy of The San Diego Symphony / Gary Payne)

By Joel Casillas

San Diego Symphony and Orchestre Symphonique de Montréal Unite for Historic Sounds of Two Cities Collaboration

Since Rafael Payare took the helm of the San Diego Symphony, the orchestra's artistic vision has continued to evolve through ambitious collaborations and events that bring music beyond traditional concert halls. One of the institution's major goals has been to break down borders and create experiences that connect communities across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

That vision came to life with “Sounds of Two Cities,” an unprecedented collaboration between the San Diego Symphony and the Orchestre Symphonique de Montréal (OSM). The spectacular The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park provided the setting for this special gathering. Bringing together musicians from two distinguished institutions, the event was also free to the public, allowing more people to experience an extraordinary evening along San Diego Bay.

The program featured music by Béla Bartók, Sergei Prokofiev, and Ottorino Respighi, as well as Daphnis et Chloé. Audiences enjoyed an evening of contrasting musical styles, sounds, and traditions, all presented against the beautiful waterfront setting.

The collaboration highlighted the distinctive qualities of both orchestras: the precision and refinement of the OSM alongside the power, energy, and impressive sound of the San Diego Symphony. More than simply sharing a stage, the musicians created an encounter between two artistic identities, demonstrating what can happen when distinguished institutions come together.

One of the evening's most memorable moments came toward the end of the performance, when several OSM musicians moved onto a yacht to perform their portion of the music from the water. This unexpected element transformed the finale into a spectacular experience, bringing excitement and enthusiastic reactions from the audience.

Events like this represent small steps toward a much larger goal: demonstrating that music has no borders and that the talent within our region can connect cultures and communities. The collaboration also highlighted the extraordinary musicians behind these institutions and the importance of bringing international artistic experiences to San Diego audiences.

The San Diego Symphony season is only getting started, and Rafael Payare has already demonstrated the ambition behind its artistic direction. From internationally acclaimed pianists and violinists to collaborations with orchestras attracting worldwide attention, the programming continues to offer experiences that go far beyond a traditional concert.

“Sounds of Two Cities” was much more than an evening of music by the bay. It was a reminder that art can bring cities, countries, and people together. Because music does not divide us; music brings us together.