The Peninsula Music Fair has been a part of the Peninsula calendar of events since 1972. Organized by the Peninsula Committee Los Angeles Philharmonic (PCLAP), the event has evolved over the years, but the purpose has remained to support youth music education and foster the appreciation of music in the community. The event started as an outdoor concert held in 1972, with guests picnicking on the tree-shaded lawns of Chadwick enjoying Zubin Mehta conducting the LA Phil, over five thousand attended and tickets were just $3.50! During the 80’s and 90’s the event evolved into a festival atmosphere with professional music performances, LA Phil conductors, and increasing activities for children including hands-on Music Mobile, Jim Gamble Puppets, crafts and more. Beginning in 2009 the event was redesigned in size and title, the youth component to the event has developed into the annual Music In the Garden youth concert held at the South Coast Botanic Garden each Spring. Music In the Garden works to highlight and support school music programs and give them the opportunity to perform while offering the community a chance to see the quality and talent of local young musicians. Participating schools receive a $200 honorarium from PCLAP.
This year’s Music In the Garden, took place on Saturday, March 16, 2024. PV Magazine was able to talk with event co-chair Ruth Trotter and longtime PCLAP member, Marian Duntley about this year’s concert and the important work of the organization. Both were very pleased with this year’s event, the weather cooperated, and the concert was held outdoors in a lovely setting in the South Coast Botanic Garden, and was well attended, not only by family members, but many garden guests that were delighted to enjoy the unexpected music during their visit to the garden. Ruth said she was “struck by the enthusiasm and quality of the music.” Ruth and Marian expressed their appreciation for the South Coast Botanic Garden which supports and collaborates with the PCLAP every year and provides the venue for this concert.
This year’s participating schools from the Peninsula included Palos Verdes High School String Quartet, Palos Verdes Peninsula High School Orchestra and Choir and Advanced Jazz Band, Palos Verdes Intermediate School Pep Band, and Ridgecrest Intermediate School Advanced Orchestra. Other South Bay schools participating included Casimir Middle School Advanced Orchestra and South High School Spartan Jazz A Band.
In addition to hosting Music In The Garden each year, PCLAP organizes The Angel Fund to support music programs on the Peninsula. Music teachers and directors can apply for grants to use for music, repairs, or instrument acquisition. This year, Peninsula High Jazz Band received funds to help acquire new saxophones and students were able to play these new instruments at the concert. There are also major fundraisers to support the LA Philharmonic and audience development along with raising funds to allocate to youth programs. They are currently preparing for a fundraiser on May 5, 2024, at Michael’s Tuscany Room featuring a performance by renowned tenor, Dennis McNeil. The event will benefit the LA Philharmonic and local music education programs.
For more information about this organization visit pclaphil.org.
