La Jolla Music Society’s Free Concert Series Returns for Fall Season

La Jolla Music Society‘s free Wu Tsai QRT.yrd outdoor concert series returns at The Conrad in the fall with “World Strings,” beginning with qanun artist Ali Paris.

Paris, an internationally acclaimed musician, is famous for his mastery of the qanun, a Middle Eastern string instrument from the 14th century most popular in Iran, the Middle East and North Africa.

According to La Jolla Music Society, Paris blends the rich heritage of Middle Eastern music with jazz and Western classical styles.

He will perform at 4:30 p.m. Oct. 23.

Other shows in the three-concert series take place Nov. 7 and 22.

Mariachi Águila, established in 2022 and comprised of students from La Jolla Music Society’s award-winning after-school program, the Community Music Center, will perform at 4:30 p.m. Nov. 7.

Mariachi Águila was established in 2022 by program director Serafin Paredes to give advanced students the opportunity continue their musical studies. Members participated in the 2023 and 2024 University of San Diego Mariachi Conference and also performed with artists from Mariachi Juvenil.

They won first place at the 2024 California State Fair Youth Mariachi Competition in Sacramento.

A San Diego-based trio playing guitar, upright bass and drums will close out the concert series at 4:30 p.m Nov. 22. The Alex Ciavarelli Trio, or the Rhythm Sexion, will bring a range of jazz to contemporary compositions.

“I’m very excited about the return of the Wu Tsai QRT.yrd concerts after a very successful spring series,” said Allison Boles, director of learning and engagement. “This series is special because it allows us to welcome new audiences to the Conrad with free programming and because it gives us the opportunity to shine a spotlight on some incredibly talented local artists.”

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