April always feels like a reset in San Diego, and La Jolla Music Society is leaning all the way in. The Conrad and Balboa Theatre are packed with globally acclaimed artists, bold premieres, and genre-spanning performances that make it easy to fill the calendar with something inspiring every single week.

From a citywide jazz celebration honoring Miles Davis and John Coltrane to powerhouse classical recitals, family-friendly programming, and thought-provoking talks, this month’s lineup brings serious range.

A Citywide Jazz Celebration

La Jolla Music Society is marking the centennial of John Coltrane and Miles Davis with a multi-day jazz celebration featuring some of the most respected artists on the scene today

Emmet Cohen Presents: Miles and Coltrane at 100
Multi-award-winning pianist Emmet Cohen leads an all-star quintet in a bold reimagining of music that reshaped jazz forever

Jazz Encounter – FREE
A deep-dive conversation with Emmet Cohen and drummer Joe Farnsworth exploring the legacy and influence of these iconic composers

Terence Blanchard & Ravi Coltrane
In a rare collaboration, these two powerhouses perform reimagined works honoring Miles and Coltrane’s lasting impact

Coltrane 100: Both Directions at Once
Joe Lovano, Melissa Aldana, Nduduzo Makhathini, Linda May Han Oh, and Jeff “Tain” Watts come together for a cross-generational tribute

You’ll also find free outdoor programming, including the Brian Levy Quartet and Bobby Cressey, bringing even more jazz energy into the mix

Classical Stars Take the Stage

Beyond jazz, April brings an impressive lineup of classical talent.

Danish String Quartet & Danish National Girls’ Choir
A powerful program centered on women composers, including the US premiere of David Lang’s in wildness

Gautier Capuçon & Jean-Yves Thibaudet
Two celebrated French artists perform works by Schumann, Brahms, Debussy, and Shostakovich

Aristo Sham
The 2025 Cliburn Competition Gold Medal winner makes a highly anticipated appearance

Alexandre Kantorow
Gold Medal and Grand Prix winner at the Tchaikovsky Piano Competition, performing a program spanning Bach to Beethoven

Together, these performances bring some of the world’s most celebrated classical artists to San Diego, offering unforgettable evenings of music in the intimate setting of The Conrad.

Jazz, Family Programs, and More

The month also includes:

• Benny Benack III: The Magic of Manhattan – A swinging celebration of New York’s jazz legacy
• Aaron Diehl Trio – Refined, expressive jazz rooted in tradition with a modern pulse
• Art of Elan: Dancing on Tiptoes – A vibrant North American premiere designed for young listeners
• Music 101 Lecture – FREE – A fascinating look at musical “color” and timbre
• David McLain: Blue Zones – A Speaker Series event exploring longevity and vibrant living

Whether you’re in the mood for a jazz deep dive, a world-class recital, or something inspiring for the whole family, April at La Jolla Music Society has a little bit of everything

See you there!

We’ll be mixing jazz nights with classical evenings and maybe a lecture or two in between. April at The Conrad is officially booked on our calendar.

📍 7600 Fay Ave, La Jolla
🎟️ Get your tickets here
ℹ️ More info here

See you there, San Diego!