Open Print Studio at the AAC
Sep
18
1:00 PM13:00

Open Print Studio at the AAC

Friday, August 21, 2026
1–6 PM

Open Print Studio at the Athenaeum Art Center invites local printmakers and artists to utilize the equipment and space in the printmaking studio. Prior knowledge in printmaking and equipment familiarity is required as open studio time is not for learning a new printmaking process or one on one lessons. The Athenaeum Art Center offers printmaking courses throughout the year for those wanting to learn a new craft or wanting to enhance their art practice. Open Studio is free for everyone. 

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Members’ Open Print Studio at the AAC
Sep
19
1:00 PM13:00

Members’ Open Print Studio at the AAC

Saturday, August 22, 2026
11 AM–6 PM

Members' Open Print Studio is private time for those who hold a current membership with the Athenaeum Music & Arts Library. This members-only opportunity provides members a private open studio session without the busy nature of regular open studio. Light demonstrations are available and certain members' open studio dates will include workshops. 

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Vania Pimentel, piano | Free Mini-Concert
Sep
21
12:00 PM12:00

Vania Pimentel, piano | Free Mini-Concert

  • Athenaeum Music & Arts Library (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Monday, September 21 at 12 PM

Concert pianist Vania Pimentel, born and raised in Brazil, has been promoting Brazilian music in creative recital programs. She has a BA in Music and another BA in Philosophy from Brazil, KA graduate artist diploma from Germany, Masters in piano performance and pedagogy, and DMA from the University of Houston. She performs frequently in Brazil and has given masterclasses at many universities there.

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Open Print Studio at the AAC
Sep
25
1:00 PM13:00

Open Print Studio at the AAC

Friday, August 21, 2026
1–6 PM

Open Print Studio at the Athenaeum Art Center invites local printmakers and artists to utilize the equipment and space in the printmaking studio. Prior knowledge in printmaking and equipment familiarity is required as open studio time is not for learning a new printmaking process or one on one lessons. The Athenaeum Art Center offers printmaking courses throughout the year for those wanting to learn a new craft or wanting to enhance their art practice. Open Studio is free for everyone. 

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Glissade | Jeremy Kurtz-Harris (double bass) | San Diego New Music
Sep
25
7:30 PM19:30

Glissade | Jeremy Kurtz-Harris (double bass) | San Diego New Music

  • Athenaeum Music & Arts Library (map)
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Featuring:

Tiffany Wee, Violin

Chi-Yuan Chen, Viola

Jeffrey Ho, Cello

Jeremy Kurtz-Harris, Double Bass

Chris Warren - Electronics

Program:

Mean Time - By Tommy Dougherty

Waltzes - By Fred Lerdahl

Glissade - by James Tenney

Friday, September 25

7:30 p.m.

Take a string quartet. Remove the second violin. Add a double bass.

That single swap is the idea behind this season-opening program. Fred Lerdahl's Waltzes sets the terms with a "low" string quartet, his own term for a group where the viola and cello are pushed into unfamiliar high registers while the bass holds down a floor no quartet usually has. James Tenney's Glissade narrows the group further, to viola, cello, and bass, running their glissandi through a live delay system until pitch stops feeling like steps and starts feeling like a slide. Tommy Dougherty's Mean Time strips it down to its two outer edges: a duo for violin and double bass alone, highest and lowest voice facing each other with nothing in between.

Violin, viola, cello, double bass: Tiffany Wee, Chi-Yuan Chen, Jeffrey Ho, and Jeremy Kurtz-Harris.

A glissade is a gliding step in ballet and a controlled slide down a snowfield in mountaineering — momentum without falling. This program moves the same way: one instrument added, removed, or isolated at a time, until an entire register of the string quartet opens up beneath it.

About San Diego New Music:

San Diego New Music is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the public performance of notated music of the highest integrity and artistic caliber from the 20th and 21st centuries. We seek to advance the art form by promoting music composed with conceptual rigor, passionate energy and singular artistic vision. SDNM enriches the artistic culture of San Diego through the presentation of an annual concert series and the soundON Festival of Modern Music, and through fostering its resident performing ensemble, NOISE.

In 1994, the only place in San Diego where you could hear an entire concert of 20th-century music was on a college campus. San Diego New Music pitched the idea of a concert series devoted to modern music and 20th-century classics at the Athenaeum. The concerts of modern music perfectly complement the exhibitions of modern art held in the Athenaeum’s galleries. In 1996, San Diego New Music presented its first season. The series was called "Noise at the Library," and the ensemble would later adopt the name, as well. San Diego New Music and the Athenaeum have been happily co-presenting concerts of new music ever since.

For more information on the organization go to www.sandiegonewmusic.com.

The concerts will be in person at the Athenaeum Music & Arts Library. There are no physical tickets for these events. Your name will be on an attendee list at the front door. Doors open at 7 p.m. Seating is first-come; first-served. Priority seating will be given to Donor level members and above. 

Ticket Confirmation Notice: 

Your reservation is not complete until you receive an email confirmation. If you do not receive a confirmation email, your tickets have not been reserved. Please check your inbox and spam/junk folder or contact us at info@ljathenaeum.org or (858) 454-5872 to ensure your booking is finalized. Thank you!  

Ticket Cancellation & Refund Policy:

All ticket sales for Athenaeum Music & Arts Library events are final. Cancellations made within 48 hours of the scheduled event start time are not eligible for a refund, regardless of the reason for cancellation.

Guests who are unable to attend may:

  • Transfer their ticket to another individual, or

  • Request that the ticket price be converted into a tax-deductible charitable contribution to the Athenaeum, provided no goods or services (e.g., meal, entertainment) were received.

For cancellations made more than 48 hours prior to an event, please contact Anira Abreu, Program and Administrative Associate, to discuss options: aabreu@ljathenaeum.org

We appreciate your understanding and support. Ticket proceeds help sustain the Athenaeum's cultural programming and enable us to present exceptional performances, lectures, and events throughout the year.

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*SPECIAL HOURS* Members’ Open Print Studio at the AAC
Sep
26
11:00 AM11:00

*SPECIAL HOURS* Members’ Open Print Studio at the AAC

Saturday, August 22, 2026
11 AM–6 PM

Members' Open Print Studio is private time for those who hold a current membership with the Athenaeum Music & Arts Library. This members-only opportunity provides members a private open studio session without the busy nature of regular open studio. Light demonstrations are available and certain members' open studio dates will include workshops. 

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Alan Busteed, violin & Xian Zhou, cello | Mini-Concert
Sep
28
12:00 PM12:00

Alan Busteed, violin & Xian Zhou, cello | Mini-Concert

  • Athenaeum Music & Arts Library (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Alan Busteed

Xian Zhuo

Monday, September 28

12 PM

Praised for his stunning technique, sensitivity and superb artistry, San Diego Symphony Orchestra cellist Xian Zhuo is a young professional musician whose artistry is recognized by awards and audiences. The winner of the 2011 Isidor Handler Award (1st Prize) at the 38th Dr. Luis Sigall International Cello Competition in Chile, Zhuo's recent exciting engagements included concertos and master classes in Chile, Brazil, China and the USA. In 2013, he was selected as one of the top ten young Chinese cellists and was featured on a CCTV Concert in Beijing with the China Philharmonic Orchestra. Zhuo also had his debut with Guiyang Symphony Orchestra with Maestro Zuohuang Chen in China. He joined the SDSO in 2014.

Zhuo first gained national recognition when he won 1st prize in the China National Competition. In addition to the Isidor Handler Award, he won 1st prizes in the Corpus Christi International Competition, Loeb/Louviere International Competition, Redlands Bowl Young Artist Competition, Parness Young Artists Concerto Competition, La Jolla Symphony and Chorus Young Artists Competition and Fé Bland Foundation Music Awards. Additionally, he was chosen as one of the 25 participants for the International Tchaikovsky Competition in Moscow, Russia, in 2011.

The catalog of Zhuo’s CDs represents works by award-winning Chinese-American composer Tian Zhou, recorded with the Guangzhou Symphony and released by China’s leading label, Pacific Audio and Video. His album String Poetic: Chinese Folk Music for Cello was released in celebration of the 2010 Asian Games in Guangzhou.

Born in Xiamen, China, Zhuo began cello lessons with his father at age six and made his cello debut at the age of seven. Subsequently, he received professional education at USC, Yale University, the Royal Northern College of Music and Shanghai Conservatory on full scholarships. His prominent artist teachers include Ralph Kirshbaum, Nathaniel Rosen, Aldo Parisot, Liwei Qin and Mei-Juan Liu. He also performed at masterclasses for Yo-Yo Ma, Mstislav Rostropovich, Anner Bylsma, Natalia Gutman, Trüls Mørk and Jian Wang. His goal is to share the beautiful musical fabric that he creates with audiences throughout the world.

"An extraordinarily talented young international artist of great originality and technique…breathtaking, soulful and individualistic performances … stunning technical command of the instrument, and his artistry is both sensitive and passionate.” —Nathaniel Rosen, Concert Cellist, Gold Medalist of the International Tchaikovsky Competition

Alan Busteed has performed on violin and viola with the Fort Worth and San Diego Symphonies. He presented a series of master classes and conducted a youth string orchestra in a televised concert Recife, Brazil, in 2009. Busteed has coached the first violins of the Orange County High School of the Arts and the Pacific Symphony Youth Orchestra. He can be heard as a violin soloist with Tinto Tango, an authentic tango quintet from Los Angeles, with whom Alan won a Latin Grammy for Best Tango Album of the Year 2021 (Tinto Tango Plays Piazzolla). He studied with Raphael Bronstein at Manhattan School of Music holds a Master of Music degree from UMASS Amherst.

For more information, contact us at 858-454-5872 or visit ljathenaeum.org/mini-concerts

The concerts will be in person at the Athenaeum Music & Arts Library. There are no physical tickets for these events. Doors open at 11:40 a.m. Last entry is at 12:10 p.m. or once capacity is reached. Seating is first-come; first-served. Reservations are not necessary, but seating is limited.

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Open Print Studio at the AAC
Oct
2
1:00 PM13:00

Open Print Studio at the AAC

Friday, August 21, 2026
1–6 PM

Open Print Studio at the Athenaeum Art Center invites local printmakers and artists to utilize the equipment and space in the printmaking studio. Prior knowledge in printmaking and equipment familiarity is required as open studio time is not for learning a new printmaking process or one on one lessons. The Athenaeum Art Center offers printmaking courses throughout the year for those wanting to learn a new craft or wanting to enhance their art practice. Open Studio is free for everyone. 

View Event →
Members’ Open Print Studio at the AAC
Oct
3
1:00 PM13:00

Members’ Open Print Studio at the AAC

Saturday, August 22, 2026
11 AM–6 PM

Members' Open Print Studio is private time for those who hold a current membership with the Athenaeum Music & Arts Library. This members-only opportunity provides members a private open studio session without the busy nature of regular open studio. Light demonstrations are available and certain members' open studio dates will include workshops. 

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Athenaeum Chamber Series 2026-2027
Oct
5
7:30 PM19:30

Athenaeum Chamber Series 2026-2027

The Athenaeum Music & Arts Library is pleased to present the 2026–2027 season of the Barbara and William Karatz Chamber Concert Series, beginning October 5, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. Set in the intimate Joan & Irwin Jacobs Music Room, this beloved series invites you to experience chamber music in the warm, personal setting of our historic library. From rarely heard works to cherished masterpieces, each program offers music that will surprise, delight, and move you, performed by some of the finest chamber musicians working today. This season welcomes back audience favorites alongside exciting new artists making their Athenaeum debuts. The series continues through April 19, 2027, with each concert preceded by a 6:45 p.m. pre-concert talk and followed by a reception with the artists in the Sharon & Joel Labovitz Entry Hall.


The concert will be in person at the Athenaeum Music & Arts Library (1008 Wall Street, La Jolla, CA 92037). There are no physical tickets for these events. Your name will be on an attendee list at the front door. Doors open at 7 p.m. Seating is first-come; first-served. Priority seating will be given to Donor level members and above.

Ticket Confirmation Notice:

Your reservation is not complete until you receive an email confirmation. If you do not receive a confirmation email, your tickets have not been reserved. Please check your inbox and spam/junk folder or contact us at info@ljathenaeum.org or (858) 454-5872 to ensure your booking is finalized.

Ticket Cancellation & Refund Policy

All ticket sales for Athenaeum Music & Arts Library events are final. Cancellations made within 48 hours of the scheduled event start time are not eligible for a refund, regardless of the reason for cancellation.

Guests who are unable to attend may:

  • Transfer their ticket to another individual, or

  • Request that the ticket price be converted into a tax-deductible charitable contribution to the Athenaeum, provided no goods or services (e.g., meal, entertainment) were received.

For cancellations made more than 48 hours prior to an event, please contact Anira Abreu, Program and Administrative Associate, to discuss options: aabreu@ljathenaeum.org

We appreciate your understanding and support. Ticket proceeds help sustain the Athenaeum's cultural programming and enable us to present exceptional performances, lectures, and events throughout the year.

Thank you!

View Event →
Johnny Gandelsman (solo violin) | Chamber Concert
Oct
5
7:30 PM19:30

Johnny Gandelsman (solo violin) | Chamber Concert

Monday, October 5, 2026
7:30 PM

Groundbreaking violinist Johnny Gandelsman opens our season with an exciting solo recital, combining his own original compositions, works he commissioned and premiered as part of his This is America project, and monumental works by J.S. Bach.

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Open Print Studio at the AA
Oct
9
1:00 PM13:00

Open Print Studio at the AA

Friday, August 21, 2026
1–6 PM

Open Print Studio at the Athenaeum Art Center invites local printmakers and artists to utilize the equipment and space in the printmaking studio. Prior knowledge in printmaking and equipment familiarity is required as open studio time is not for learning a new printmaking process or one on one lessons. The Athenaeum Art Center offers printmaking courses throughout the year for those wanting to learn a new craft or wanting to enhance their art practice. Open Studio is free for everyone. 

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Sameer Patel |  The Podium and Beyond: Demystifying the Art of Conducting
Oct
13
5:30 PM17:30

Sameer Patel | The Podium and Beyond: Demystifying the Art of Conducting

  • Athenaeum Music & Arts Library (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

The concerts will be in person at the Athenaeum Music & Arts Library. There are no physical tickets for these events. Your name will be on an attendee list at the front door. Doors open at 7 p.m. Seating is first-come; first-served. Priority seating will be given to Donor level members and above. 

Ticket Confirmation Notice: 

Your reservation is not complete until you receive an email confirmation. If you do not receive a confirmation email, your tickets have not been reserved. Please check your inbox and spam/junk folder or contact us at info@ljathenaeum.org or (858) 454-5872 to ensure your booking is finalized. Thank you!  

Ticket Cancellation & Refund Policy:

All ticket sales for Athenaeum Music & Arts Library events are final. Cancellations made within 48 hours of the scheduled event start time are not eligible for a refund, regardless of the reason for cancellation.

Guests who are unable to attend may:

  • Transfer their ticket to another individual, or

  • Request that the ticket price be converted into a tax-deductible charitable contribution to the Athenaeum, provided no goods or services (e.g., meal, entertainment) were received.

For cancellations made more than 48 hours prior to an event, please contact Anira Abreu, Program and Administrative Associate, to discuss options: aabreu@ljathenaeum.org

We appreciate your understanding and support. Ticket proceeds help sustain the Athenaeum's cultural programming and enable us to present exceptional performances, lectures, and events throughout the year.

Tuesday, October 13, 2026

5:30–7:00 p.m.

Have you ever watched an orchestra performance and wondered what the conductor was actually doing?

Join Sameer Patel, Music Director and Orchestra Conductor of the La Jolla Symphony & Chorus and Artistic Director of the San Diego Youth Symphony, as he pulls back the curtain on the art and craft of conducting and the multifaceted role of the modern conductor.

In this presentation he will explore the leadership skills required on and off the podium, the artistic demands of interpreting both classic and contemporary works, and the personal journey that led him to pursue this unique career. He will also share his passion for nurturing the next generation of musicians and discuss the challenges of advocating for symphonic music in the 21st century.

About Sameer Patel:

Recognized for his "profound artistry" (The San Diego Union-Tribune), Sameer Patel has established himself as one of America’s most exciting and versatile conductors. Whether leading world premieres or traditional masterworks, Patel brings an infectious enthusiasm for music-making that resonates with musicians, audiences, and students alike.

Sameer is currently the Music Director and Orchestra Conductor of the La Jolla Symphony and Chorus and Artistic Director of the San Diego Youth Symphony, where he is deeply devoted to innovative programming, championing contemporary music, and nurturing the next generation of musicians and music lovers.

His extensive guest conducting credits include prominent orchestras across North America and abroad, including the Symphony Orchestras of Chicago, Toronto, Detroit, St. Louis, Baltimore, and many others. His honors include recognition from Musical America, the Solti Foundation U.S., the League of American Orchestras, and The White House. A graduate of the University of Michigan, he counts as his mentors Daniele Gatti, Gianandrea Noseda, Paavo Jarvi, and the late maestros Bernard Haitink and Kurt Masur.

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Open Print Studio at the AAC
Oct
16
1:00 PM13:00

Open Print Studio at the AAC

Friday, August 21, 2026
1–6 PM

Open Print Studio at the Athenaeum Art Center invites local printmakers and artists to utilize the equipment and space in the printmaking studio. Prior knowledge in printmaking and equipment familiarity is required as open studio time is not for learning a new printmaking process or one on one lessons. The Athenaeum Art Center offers printmaking courses throughout the year for those wanting to learn a new craft or wanting to enhance their art practice. Open Studio is free for everyone. 

View Event →
Members’ Open Print Studio at the AAC
Oct
17
1:00 PM13:00

Members’ Open Print Studio at the AAC

Saturday, August 22, 2026
11 AM–6 PM

Members' Open Print Studio is private time for those who hold a current membership with the Athenaeum Music & Arts Library. This members-only opportunity provides members a private open studio session without the busy nature of regular open studio. Light demonstrations are available and certain members' open studio dates will include workshops. 

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Artist Talk: Lizzie Zelter: Southeast Exchange
Oct
22
6:30 PM18:30

Artist Talk: Lizzie Zelter: Southeast Exchange

  • Athenaeum Music & Arts Library (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Lizzie Zelter; Photo credit: Annie Denton

Lizzie Zelter: Southeast Exchange

Artist Talk Presented by Lizzie Zelter

Thursday, October 22, 2026

Murals of La Jolla and the Athenaeum present Lizzie Zelter, with a special presentation of her career, process, recent projects, and 2026 mural Southeast Exchange for Murals of La Jolla. The reception begins at 6 p.m., followed by an artist talk at 6:30 p.m.

On Thursday, October 22, 2026, Lizzie Zelter will give an artist talk at the Athenaeum Music & Arts Library. Presented by Murals of La Jolla and the Athenaeum, the evening begins with a reception at 6 PM, followed by the talk at 6:30 PM. Zelter will discuss her career, recent projects, and 2026 mural, Southeast Exchange, for Murals of La Jolla.

Learn more here.

Mural Members and Makers will receive an email to RSVP for the lecture.

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Open Print Studio at the AAC
Oct
23
1:00 PM13:00

Open Print Studio at the AAC

Friday, August 21, 2026
1–6 PM

Open Print Studio at the Athenaeum Art Center invites local printmakers and artists to utilize the equipment and space in the printmaking studio. Prior knowledge in printmaking and equipment familiarity is required as open studio time is not for learning a new printmaking process or one on one lessons. The Athenaeum Art Center offers printmaking courses throughout the year for those wanting to learn a new craft or wanting to enhance their art practice. Open Studio is free for everyone. 

View Event →
Members’ Open Print Studio at the AAC
Oct
24
1:00 PM13:00

Members’ Open Print Studio at the AAC

Saturday, August 22, 2026
11 AM–6 PM

Members' Open Print Studio is private time for those who hold a current membership with the Athenaeum Music & Arts Library. This members-only opportunity provides members a private open studio session without the busy nature of regular open studio. Light demonstrations are available and certain members' open studio dates will include workshops. 

View Event →
Open Print Studio at the AAC
Oct
30
1:00 PM13:00

Open Print Studio at the AAC

Friday, August 21, 2026
1–6 PM

Open Print Studio at the Athenaeum Art Center invites local printmakers and artists to utilize the equipment and space in the printmaking studio. Prior knowledge in printmaking and equipment familiarity is required as open studio time is not for learning a new printmaking process or one on one lessons. The Athenaeum Art Center offers printmaking courses throughout the year for those wanting to learn a new craft or wanting to enhance their art practice. Open Studio is free for everyone. 

View Event →
Members’ Open Print Studio at the AAC
Oct
31
1:00 PM13:00

Members’ Open Print Studio at the AAC

Saturday, September 12, 2026
11 AM–6 PM

Members' Open Print Studio is private time for those who hold a current membership with the Athenaeum Music & Arts Library. This members-only opportunity provides members a private open studio session without the busy nature of regular open studio. Light demonstrations are available and certain members' open studio dates will include workshops. 

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Athenaeum Jazz Fall 2026 Series
Nov
3
7:30 PM19:30

Athenaeum Jazz Fall 2026 Series

Tuesday, November 3, 7:30 PM—Joshua Redman Quartet (Scripps Research) Sunday, November 15, 7:30 PM—David Sánchez “Tambó” (Scripps Research) Thursday, December 3, 7:30 PM—Gabrielle Cavassa (Athenaeum)

Celebrate the 30th anniversary of Athenaeum Jazz at Scripps Research with a three-concert series featuring internationally acclaimed jazz artists in the exceptional acoustics of the Scripps auditorium.

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David Sánchez “Tambó” | Athenaeum Jazz Fall 2026 Series
Nov
15
7:30 PM19:30

David Sánchez “Tambó” | Athenaeum Jazz Fall 2026 Series

Sunday, November 15, 2026
7:30 PM

David Sánchez Quintet: Tambó showcases the GRAMMY® Award-winning saxophonist's powerful fusion of jazz with the African-rooted musical traditions of Puerto Rico and Colombia in a vibrant celebration of the African diaspora.

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Valencia Baryton Project | Chamber Concert
Nov
16
7:30 PM19:30

Valencia Baryton Project | Chamber Concert

  • Athenaeum Music & Arts Library (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Monday, November 16, 2026
7:30 PM

This unique group returns to the Athenaeum with a varied program showcasing the baryton (a rarely heard instrument that had its heyday as the “King of instruments” in the 18th century) with works old and new, by Joseph Haydn and three pieces written for the Valencia Baryton Project.

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 Gabrielle Cavassa | Athenaeum Jazz Fall 2026 Series
Dec
3
7:30 PM19:30

Gabrielle Cavassa | Athenaeum Jazz Fall 2026 Series

  • Athenaeum Music & Arts Library (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Thursday, December 3, 2026
7:30 PM

Gabrielle Cavassa makes her Athenaeum debut with an intimate performance showcasing the rising Blue Note Records vocalist, whose rich, expressive voice and captivating artistry have established her as one of jazz's most exciting new talents.

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Baumer Quartet with Kate Hatmaker and Alex Greenbaum | Chamber Concert
Jan
10
7:30 PM19:30

Baumer Quartet with Kate Hatmaker and Alex Greenbaum | Chamber Concert

  • Athenaeum Music & Arts Library (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Sunday, January 10, 2027
7:30 PM

The Baumer Quartet returns to the Athenaeum after a warm reception at their first visit in 2023. They’ll share works by Mozart and Jerod Impichchaachaaha' Tate before joining our own Kate Hatmaker and Alex Greenbaum in Brahms’ beloved String Sextet in G Major.

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Members’ Open Print Studio at the AAC
Sep
12
11:00 AM11:00

Members’ Open Print Studio at the AAC

Saturday, September 12, 2026
11 AM–6 PM

Members' Open Print Studio is private time for those who hold a current membership with the Athenaeum Music & Arts Library. This members-only opportunity provides members a private open studio session without the busy nature of regular open studio. Light demonstrations are available and certain members' open studio dates will include workshops. 

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Book Sale
Sep
12
10:00 AM10:00

Book Sale

  • Athenaeum Music & Arts Library (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Saturday, September 12, 2026
10 AM–4 PM

Get a gift for a friend or yourself at the Athenaeum's quarterly book sale on our patio! As usual, we will have a large selection of gently used books, CDs, vinyl LPs, and sheet music. Hundreds of recordings of classical, jazz, and popular music are just $1 per disc, making this a music lover’s paradise.

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Open Print Studio at the AAC
Sep
11
1:00 PM13:00

Open Print Studio at the AAC

Friday, August 21, 2026
1–6 PM

Open Print Studio at the Athenaeum Art Center invites local printmakers and artists to utilize the equipment and space in the printmaking studio. Prior knowledge in printmaking and equipment familiarity is required as open studio time is not for learning a new printmaking process or one on one lessons. The Athenaeum Art Center offers printmaking courses throughout the year for those wanting to learn a new craft or wanting to enhance their art practice. Open Studio is free for everyone. 

View Event →
Members’ Open Print Studio at the AAC
Sep
5
1:00 PM13:00

Members’ Open Print Studio at the AAC

Saturday, August 22, 2026
11 AM–6 PM

Members' Open Print Studio is private time for those who hold a current membership with the Athenaeum Music & Arts Library. This members-only opportunity provides members a private open studio session without the busy nature of regular open studio. Light demonstrations are available and certain members' open studio dates will include workshops. 

View Event →
Open Print Studio at the AAC
Sep
4
1:00 PM13:00

Open Print Studio at the AAC

Friday, August 21, 2026
1–6 PM

Open Print Studio at the Athenaeum Art Center invites local printmakers and artists to utilize the equipment and space in the printmaking studio. Prior knowledge in printmaking and equipment familiarity is required as open studio time is not for learning a new printmaking process or one on one lessons. The Athenaeum Art Center offers printmaking courses throughout the year for those wanting to learn a new craft or wanting to enhance their art practice. Open Studio is free for everyone. 

View Event →
The Pan American Duo, flute & cello | Free Mini-Concert
Aug
31
12:00 PM12:00

The Pan American Duo, flute & cello | Free Mini-Concert

  • Athenaeum Music & Arts Library (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Monday, August 31, 2026
12 PM

Canadian cellist Kathleen Long and Mexican American flutist Julia Barnett, are a dynamic musical duo whose partnership began in the Hawaii Symphony. Since first meeting there, they’ve become great friends and frequent collaborators, bringing their shared artistry to performances across Southern California. They love exploring the music of the Americas and beyond.

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Ess Whiteley: listening materials
Aug
29
5:00 PM17:00

Ess Whiteley: listening materials

Ess Whiteley: listening materials transforms the Athenaeum Art Center into a resonant, self-sounding environment. Computer-controlled speakers, harmonicas, fans, and organic and inorganic materials interact through sound waves, vibration, air, and the natural acoustics of the space. As visitors move through the gallery, these shifting relationships make sound’s invisible forces—and matter’s capacity to respond—perceptible.

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Members’ Open Print Studio at the AAC
Aug
29
11:00 AM11:00

Members’ Open Print Studio at the AAC

Saturday, August 29, 2026
11 AM–6 PM

Members' Open Print Studio is private time for those who hold a current membership with the Athenaeum Music & Arts Library. This members-only opportunity provides members a private open studio session without the busy nature of regular open studio. Light demonstrations are available and certain members' open studio dates will include workshops. 

View Event →
Open Print Studio at the AAC
Aug
28
1:00 PM13:00

Open Print Studio at the AAC

Friday, August 28, 2026
1–6 PM

Open Print Studio at the Athenaeum Art Center invites local printmakers and artists to utilize the equipment and space in the printmaking studio. Prior knowledge in printmaking and equipment familiarity is required as open studio time is not for learning a new printmaking process or one on one lessons. The Athenaeum Art Center offers printmaking courses throughout the year for those wanting to learn a new craft or wanting to enhance their art practice. Open Studio is free for everyone. 

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It’s a Wonderful Life (1946) | Flicks on the Bricks
Aug
27
7:30 PM19:30

It’s a Wonderful Life (1946) | Flicks on the Bricks

  • Athenaeum Music & Arts Library (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Thursday, August 27, 2026
8 PM

An angel is sent from Heaven to help a desperately frustrated businessman see the value of his own life.

Cast: starring James Stewart, Donna Reed, Lionel Barrymore; director, Frank Capra

Runtime: 2 hr. 10 min.

Tagline: Wonderful news...about wonderful people!...in a wonderful picture! It's a wonderful love! It's a wonderful laugh!

Academy Awards, USA: Best Picture (Nominee); Best Actor in a Leading Role, James Stewart (Nominee); Best Director, Frank Capra (Nominee); Best Sound, Recording (Nominee); Best Film Editing (Nominee)

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Tim Flannery, guitar & vocals | Free Mini-Concert
Aug
24
12:00 PM12:00

Tim Flannery, guitar & vocals | Free Mini-Concert

  • Athenaeum Music & Arts Library (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Monday, August 24, 2026
12 PM

Throughout his baseball career, Tim Flannery had his guitar in hand. Flan writes songs about his family roots, love, and the surrender that comes when you understand some things are out of your control. He writes about baseball and being on the road, the call of the highway, and the beacon of home. He has an ace band, the Lunatic Fringe, that bring his songs roaring to life in various musical genres like bluegrass, country, and rock.

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Members’ Open Print Studio at the AAC
Aug
22
11:00 AM11:00

Members’ Open Print Studio at the AAC

Saturday, August 22, 2026
11 AM–6 PM

Members' Open Print Studio is private time for those who hold a current membership with the Athenaeum Music & Arts Library. This members-only opportunity provides members a private open studio session without the busy nature of regular open studio. Light demonstrations are available and certain members' open studio dates will include workshops. 

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Sean Jones/Billy Childs/Ben Williams | Farrell Family Athenaeum Jazz
Aug
21
7:30 PM19:30

Sean Jones/Billy Childs/Ben Williams | Farrell Family Athenaeum Jazz

Friday, August 21, 2026
7:30 PM

*AT THE ATHENAEUM MUSIC & ARTS LIBRARY*

The series concludes on Friday, August 21, with a special collective of three of today’s most celebrated jazz artists: Sean Jones on trumpet, Billy Childs on piano, and Ben Williams on bass. Childs and Williams are known to Athenaeum audiences from many past performances; Jones makes his Athenaeum debut in this concert.

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Open Print Studio at the AAC
Aug
21
1:00 PM13:00

Open Print Studio at the AAC

Friday, August 21, 2026
1–6 PM

Open Print Studio at the Athenaeum Art Center invites local printmakers and artists to utilize the equipment and space in the printmaking studio. Prior knowledge in printmaking and equipment familiarity is required as open studio time is not for learning a new printmaking process or one on one lessons. The Athenaeum Art Center offers printmaking courses throughout the year for those wanting to learn a new craft or wanting to enhance their art practice. Open Studio is free for everyone. 

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Meet John Doe (1941) | Flicks on the Bricks
Aug
20
7:30 PM19:30

Meet John Doe (1941) | Flicks on the Bricks

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Thursday, August 20, 2026
8 PM

A penniless drifter is recruited by an ambitious columnist to impersonate a non-existent person who said he'd be committing suicide as a protest, and a social movement begins.

Cast: starring Gary Cooper, Barbara Stanwyck, Edward Arnold; director, Frank Capra

Runtime: 2 hr. 2 min.

Tagline: ALL AMERICA WANTS TO MEET THE "MR. DEEDS" OF 1941!

Academy Awards, USA: Best Writing, Original Story (Nominee)

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Lori Bell Duo | Free Mini-Concert
Aug
17
12:00 PM12:00

Lori Bell Duo | Free Mini-Concert

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Monday, August 17, 2026
12 PM

Acclaimed flutist and three-time Global Music Award recipient, Brooklyn native Lori Bell is a flutist and composer of admirable depth and broad musical sympathies. A resident of San Diego, she has contributed to raising the standards of performance while earning acclaim from both peers and critics for her artistry on stage and in recordings. Ron Satterfield is simply one of the most talented musicians in Southern California. As a composer, arranger, keyboardist, guitarist and singer, he has played a key role in making San Diego a more vital music scene.  His collaborations with guitarist Steve Laury, vocalist Kevyn Lettau, flutist Lori Bell and saxophonist Joe Marillo are a testament to this fact.

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Members’ Open Print Studio at the AAC
Aug
15
11:00 AM11:00

Members’ Open Print Studio at the AAC

Saturday, August 15, 2026
11 AM–6 PM

Members' Open Print Studio is private time for those who hold a current membership with the Athenaeum Music & Arts Library. This members-only opportunity provides members a private open studio session without the busy nature of regular open studio. Light demonstrations are available and certain members' open studio dates will include workshops. 

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New Member Tour
Aug
15
11:00 AM11:00

New Member Tour

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Saturday, August 15, 2026
11 AM

New Member Tours are given by the librarian on the third Saturday of every month at 11 a.m. Members and nonmembers alike are welcome to attend. The librarian will give a tour of the library's space, collections, and a brief history. This is a free event. Reservations are not necessary.

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Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939) | Flicks on the Bricks
Aug
13
7:30 PM19:30

Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939) | Flicks on the Bricks

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Thursday, August 13, 2026
8 PM

A naive youth leader is appointed to fill a vacancy in the U.S. Senate. His idealistic plans promptly collide with corruption at home and subterfuge from his hero in Washington, but he tries to forge ahead despite attacks on his character.

Cast: starring James Stewart, Jean Arthur, Claude Rains; director, Frank Capra

Runtime: 2 hr. 9 min.

Tagline: The Picture that Caused a Furore in Washington!

Academy Awards, USA: Best Writing, Original Story (Winner); Best Picture (Nominee); Best Actor in a Leading Role, James Stewart (Nominee); Best Actor in a Supporting Role, Harry Carey (Nominee); Best Actor in a Supporting Role, Claude Rains (Nominee); Best Director, Frank Capra (Nominee); Best Writing, Screenplay (Nominee); Best Art Direction (Nominee); Best Sound, Recording (Nominee); Best Film Editing (Nominee); Best Music, Scoring (Nominee)

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1963: A Musical Time Capsule with Tod Macofsky & The Gand Band | Special Concert
Aug
12
7:30 PM19:30

1963: A Musical Time Capsule with Tod Macofsky & The Gand Band | Special Concert

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Wednesday, August 12, 2026
7:30 PM

Step back in time and relive the unforgettable sounds of 1963—a year that changed music forever! From the sun-soaked Beach Boys, to the folk anthems of Bob Dylan, Peter, Paul & Mary, and Trini Lopez … from the sweet sounds of girl groups like The Crystals, The Chiffons, and The Ronettes to the first wave of the British Invasion, the Beatles. 1963 was a turning point in popular culture.

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