You are invited to attend an intimate concert on May 31 before

the St. Augustine Music Festival concerts begin in June!

May 31, 2026

3:00 PM 

The Waterworks

184 San Marco Ave, St. Augustine

Tickets: $25 in advance, $30 at the door

Students: $10



Robert Sims, Baritone

Paul Hamilton, Piano

"Celebrating America: A Tribute through Song and Spirit"

Join us on for a powerful afternoon of music as acclaimed baritone Robert Sims returns to the Sundays With SAMF series. Known for his commanding stage presence and deeply expressive voice, Sims brings a program that spans spirituals, classical works, and beloved vocal repertoire, connecting audiences to the rich traditions of American music.

Program

I

Porgy’s Entrance Aria (Porgy and Bess) -Gershwin

Precious Lord (Gospel Hymn) - Dorsey

Don’t you let nobody (African American Spiritual) – McLin

 II

Harry T. Burleigh and Antonín Dvořák 

Swing Low Seet Chariot (African American Spiritual) Burliegh

My Lord, What A Morning (African American Spiritual) Burliegh

By and By (African American Spiritual) Burliegh

Goin' Home (New World Symphony) Dvorák 

 III

The Impossible Dream (Man of La Mancha) Piano Solo - Leigh

I Am What I Am (La Cage Aux Folles) Herman



IV

God Bless America (Peace Song) -Berlin

It’s Me O Lord, Standing In The Need of Prayer (African American Spiritual) - Jackson-King

V

Mornin’ Train (African American Spiritual) -Sims

Same Train (African American Spiritual) – Carter

VI

I Wanna Live in America (Westside Story) Piano Solo - Bernstein

Maria (Westside Story) - Bernstein

Try to Remember (The Fantasticks) - Schmidt

The Sound of Music (The Sound of Music) -Rodgers

I Got Plenty O Nuttin (Porgy and Bess) -Gershwin

QR Code for the Robert Sims Concert

Scroll down to see a selection of videos from the April 19 "Music in Motion: Dances, Dreams, and Dialogues" with the music of Composers Pietr Szewczyk and Alex Cooper, performed by musicians from the San Marco Chamber Music Society.

Join us for our landmark 20th season!

The St. Augustine Music Festival (SAMF) celebrates two decades of free-to-the-public performances. With six concerts over two weekends—June 19-21 and June 26-28—audiences will gather in the historic Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine renowned for its beauty, accessibility, and acoustics.

A tradition of excellence

Founded in 2007 to educate, entertain and elevate, SAMF has become one of the nation’s largest free chamber music festivals. Each summer, SAMF musicians and guest artists fill the cathedral with world class music that brings together both beloved classics and innovative new music.

Be part of the celebration

This milestone year will feature favorites from previous seasons as well as a celebration of the 250th birthday of the United States. Returning guest artists will include violinist Nigel Armstrong, pianist Chelsea Wang, and other acclaimed performers soon to be announced.

The St. Augustine Music Festival is excited as we continue our celebration of 20 years offering Classical Chamber Music to a discerning public and as the United States commemorates 250 years as a country!

Soon to come... on the website and in future newsletters!

Hotel and Bed & Breakfast partnerships in St. Augustine,

where you will get special benefits when planning to attend

our June St. Augustine Music Festival concerts.

Week One - June 19 - 21

Friday, June 19, 7:30 PM Juneteenth Recognition Concert

“Voices of Freedom: American Music for Juneteenth”

SAMF Chamber Orchestra

Jorge Peña, Conductor

Robert Sims, Baritone

The St. Augustine Music Festival opens its 2026 main festival season with

Voices of Freedom: American Music for Juneteenth, a powerful celebration of American music, history, and cultural memory.

This special concert features the SAMF Chamber Orchestra, conducted by

Jorge Peña, with acclaimed baritone Robert Sims. The program honors Juneteenth through music that reflects resilience, freedom, remembrance, and hope.

Program

Quinn Mason (1996 -) Princesa de la Luna for Harp and String Orchestra

Lena Johnson McLin (1928 -) I’m a Soldier Spiritual Suite - Glory Glory Hallelujah/I’m a Soldier/Don’t Ya Let Nobody Turn You “Round

Jessie Montgomery (1981 -) Strum

George Walker (1922 - 2018) Lyric for Strings

Aaron Copland (1900 – 1990) Old American Songs

The Boatman’s Dance

Simple Gifts

At The River

Ching-a-Ring Chaw

I Bought Me A Cat

You “Round

Through spirituals, folk-inspired songs, and works by American composers, this Juneteenth celebration invites audiences to reflect on the continuing story of freedom in America. With Robert Sims’ powerful voice and the artistry of the SAMF Chamber Orchestra, the concert offers an evening of music that is both deeply moving and historically meaningful.

Jorge Peña

Robert Sims

QR Code for the June 19, 2026 Concert

Saturday, June 20, 7:30 PM - Chamber Music

"Mozart and More"

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756 - 1791) - Piano Quartet No. 1 in G minor, KV 478 (1784)

Robert Schumann (1810-1856) - Piano Quartet No. 1 in E-Flat Major, op. 47 (1786)

Featuring two beloved piano quartets, this concert brings audiences into the heart of the chamber music tradition. Mozart’s elegance and dramatic expression pair beautifully with Schumann’s expansive Romantic voice, creating a program that is both graceful and deeply expressive.

Performers

Nigel Armstrong, violin

Gabriela Peña, violin

Lauren Hodges, viola

Jin Kim, cello

Yukino Miyake, piano (see photo)



QR Code for the June 20, 2026 Concert

Sunday, June 21, 7:30 PM – SAMF Chamber Orchestra

“Elegance and Fire: Masterpieces of the Classical Spirit”

Edvard Grieg (1843 1907) Holberg Suite



Joseph Haydn (1732 1809) Symphony No 3

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756 - 1791) Symphony No. 40 in G minor, K. 550

The St. Augustine Music Festival continues its 2026 season with Elegance and Fire: Masterpieces of the Classical Spirit, a program that captures both the refinement and intensity of the Classical tradition.

Featuring works by Edvard Grieg, Joseph Haydn, and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, this concert explores the balance between expressive lyricism and dramatic energy that defines some of the most enduring music in the classical repertoire.

From bold orchestral writing to elegant chamber textures, the program showcases the range and brilliance of these composers, brought to life by the exceptional musicians of the St. Augustine Music Festival.

QR Code for the June 21, 2026 Concert

Week Two - June 26 - 28

Friday, June 26, 7:30 PM – Chamber Music

“Chamber Virtuosity: The Art of Ensemble”



with Nigel Armstrong and Gabriela Peña-Kim, violins

Benjamin Picard (1991-) Concentric – Gabriela Peña-Kim, Solo Violin

Guillaume Connesson (1970 -) Sextuor for oboe, clarinet, violin, viola, bass and piano

Felix Mendelssohn-Bartholdy (1809–1847) Octet in E-flat major, Op. 20 

Experience the brilliance of chamber music at the St. Augustine Music Festival with

Chamber Virtuosity: The Art of Ensemble, a dynamic program showcasing the precision,

energy, and expressive power of musicians performing in close collaboration.

This concert brings together exceptional SAMF artists for an evening of bold contrasts and masterful ensemble playing, featuring works by Benjamin Picard, Guillaume Connesson, and Felix Mendelssohn-Bartholdy. From contemporary color and rhythmic drive to one of the great masterpieces of the chamber repertoire, this program offers a vivid and memorable concert experience.



For audiences looking for a classical concert in St. Augustine that combines virtuosity, intimacy, and excitement, this performance highlights why chamber music remains one of the most powerful live music experiences.

Gabriela Peña-Kim

Nigel Armstrong

QR Code for the June 26, 2026 Concert

Saturday, June 27, 7:30 PM - Mixed Chamber Ensembles

“250 National Celebration - American Landscapes”

Aaron Copland (1900-1990) Quiet City, suite for English horn, trumpet, and strings

Francis Poulenc (1899 - 1963) Sextet for Flute, Oboe, Clarinet, Bassoon, Horn, and Piano

Antonin Dvorak (1841–1904) Arr. Takuya Shigeta - The Sun Sets onto Distant Mountains quintet for flute, oboe, clarinet, T-saxophone, double bass.

George Gershwin (1898 - 1937) Lullaby for String Orchestra

Aaron Copland (1900 – 1990) Appalachian Spring Suite (original score 13 instruments) 1970

Celebrate America’s musical heritage with the St. Augustine Music Festival in 250th National Celebration: American Landscapes, a concert honoring the nation’s rich cultural and artistic traditions through music.

This special program highlights the spirit, diversity, and beauty of American life through works by iconic composers including Aaron Copland and other leading voices in American music. From sweeping orchestral textures to intimate, reflective moments, the music paints a vivid portrait of the American experience.

As part of SAMF’s 20th anniversary season, this performance offers a meaningful and uplifting concert experience in St. Augustine—perfect for audiences seeking live classical music that is both inspiring and deeply rooted in history.

QR Code for the June 27, 2026 Concert

Sunday, June 28, 7:30 PM – Chamber Orchestra

“St. Augustine Music Festival 20^th Anniversary Concert”



Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756 - 1791) Piano Concerto No. 10 for two pianos in E-flat major K. 365/316a

Camille Saint-Saëns* (1835-1921) The Carnival of The Animals

* Narration written by Susan S. Calfee and Lynne Radcliffe

Join the St. Augustine Music Festival for a landmark evening as we celebrate our final

20th Anniversary Concert, marking two decades of bringing world-class classical music to the St. Augustine community.

This special performance brings together distinguished artists, celebrated repertoire, and unforgettable moments from across the festival’s history. Designed as both a celebration and a reflection, the program highlights the artistic excellence and community spirit that have defined SAMF since its founding.

As one of the premier classical music events in St. Augustine, this anniversary concert offers audiences a rare opportunity to experience a truly festive and meaningful evening of live music, honoring the past while looking forward to the future of the festival.

More information on this concert will be shared in subsequent newsletters.



QR Code for the June 28, 2026 Concert

• • Sponsor and Patron Opportunities • • 

Patrons Sponsor Levels and Benefits

Support our chamber music traditions and receive seating and entrance benefits

$1500 - Prime Reserved Seating for two, early entry, Recognition in the Program and Festival reception

$500 - Reserved seating for two, early entry and Recognition in the Program

$250 — Early entry, general admission seating for two and Recognition in the Program.

Program Sponsor —- $2,500

Show your support through recognition on all Festival materials

・Recognition: Program cover credit

・Experience: Prime seating for 4 for the entire 2026 season

・Access: Festival reception with musicians

Concert Sponsor —- $5,000-$7,500

Support an individual concert and share in its success

・Recognition: Festival program and concert introduction

・Experience: Prime seating for 6 for the entire 2026 season

・Access: Festival reception with musicians

Community support keeps extraordinary music in our historic city.

Please consider becoming a Patron or Sponsor.

Personal and business checks can be made payable to the

St. Augustine Music Festival

and mailed to:

Saint Augustine Music Festival

PO Box 833

St. Augustine, FL 32085-0833

Reserved Seating for our June Concerts

Our St. Augustine Music Festival concerts in the Cathedral Basilica are general seating. If you wish to have reserved seating for the concert, we request a minimum annual donation of $500

An annual donation of $1,500 or more will provide you and another with Prime Reserved Seating in the very front rows.

Please note: The reserved seats are not available to general admission public.

If you were unable to attend the April 19 concert with the musicians of

The San Marco Chamber Music Society,

you can enjoy the music of Composer Piotr Szewczyk and

Composer Alex Cooper by listening to the videos below.

Permutations - Alex Cooper, Composer

With Thanks to the Musicians of the

San Marco Chamber Music Society

Jordan Brokken, Bassoon

Patrick Graham, Clarinet

Sophia Jean, Flute

Eric Olson, Oboe, Music Director

Ellen Olson, Viola, Music Director

Andy Bruck, Violin

Piotr Szewczyk, Violin

Brian Magnus, Cello

• • Why Your Contribution Matters • • 

Your gift makes the music possible!

For 20 years, the St. Augustine Music Festival has filled the 800-seat Cathedral Basilica, welcoming nearly 5,000 music lovers annually. Breathtaking acoustics, exceptional artistry, and world class performances create an unforgettable experience—free and open to all.

Community supported!

SAMF, a 501.c3 nonprofit, operates on an annual budget of about $125,000, with 85% devoted to festival production. The largest expense—roughly 50% —goes to bringing in outstanding professional musicians from North Florida and across the

nation. Historically, state and local grants have covered approximately 20%, while the remainder depends upon community donations and sponsors. As governmental support becomes less certain, community generosity is more important than ever.

Why your contribution matters!

Your generosity sustains this remarkable tradition, and every gift—large or small—helps SAMF present free concerts, attract superb musicians, collaborate with composers to exciting, relevant new music, and inspire the next generation through the universal language of music. Together, we can ensure that this 20th Anniversary

Season—and the years ahead—continue to resonate with the beauty, passion, and community spirit that define the St, Augustine Music Festival.



• • Watch the Videos of the 2025 Concerts Here • • 

As the June concerts are free to the public, financial contributions can be mailed to St. Augustine Music Festival, PO Box 833, St. Augustine, FL 32085-833. Donations can also be made on www.samfestival.org.

Reserved seating is available for annual donations of $500 and prime reserved seating donations of $1,500 or more.

For more information, visit www.samfestival.org or call 904-484-4960.

Personal and business checks can be made payable to the

St. Augustine Music Festival

and mailed to:

Saint Augustine Music Festival

PO Box 833

St. Augustine, FL 32085-0833

The St. Augustine Music Festival is a non-for-profit corporation exempt from federal income tax under section 501©(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. We are qualified to receive tax deductible bequests, devises, transfers, or gifts under section 2055, 2106 or 2522 of the Code and can provide you with a copy of our tax exempt status upon request. We greatly appreciate all donations and acknowledge our donors in the festival program and on our website.

Each and every level of donation is important.

Please consider the level you wish to contribute.

Visit the following websites for information about

upcoming Cultural and Musical Events in Northeast Florida

Jorge Peña and Jin Kim-Peña

Artistic Directors and Co-Founders

Bill Boxer

Advisor to the Board

On behalf of the SAMF Board of Directors, we thank you!

Bill Boxer, Advisor to the Board

Nell Seymour Toensmann, Board Chair

Jorge Peña & Jin Kim-Peña, Artistic Directors

St. Augustine Music Festival (SAMF)

billboxer@SAMFestival.org

Mobile: 904 982-0146

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

St. Augustine Music Festival

P.O. Box 833

St. Augustine, FL 32085-0833



904-484-4960

www.SAMFestival.org



Members of the SAMF Board

The St. Augustine Music Festival is very grateful for the hospitality

of the Historic and Beautiful Cathedral Basilica

for our Classical Chamber Music Concerts

offered to the public during the last two weekends in June.