Classical Event Details

Opening Night at Old First

Old First Concerts in San Francisco | Friday, August 21, 2026 at 8:00 PM PDT

When

Friday, August 21, 2026 at 8:00 PM PDT

Where

Old First Concerts
San Francisco, San Francisco Bay Area

Address

1751 Sacramento Street, San Francisco, CA 94109

TICKETS LIVE STREAM LINK The 9th annual San Francisco International Piano Festival is proud to present opening night at Old First Concerts, continuing the festival's long standing partnership with the series. As the season celebrates a kaleidoscope of international voices, we begin with Samuel Barber's Souvenirs , a charming and sparkling suite of dances reflective of different musical traditions. Derek Bermel's Turning presents a profound postcard in variation form, written after the composer's studies in Ghana. Beginning with a simple hymn tune, the work explores an eclectic palette of musical styles in dramatic fashion. The music of Liszt is featured throughout the evening, a master musical storyteller who exploits the full tonal and technical possibilities of the piano. This program features the San Francisco debut of renowned pianist Éva Polgár in solo works by Liszt and in duo works with festival founder and artistic director Jeffrey LaDeur. Ms. Polgár maintains an active and international performance schedule along with her dedication to mentoring the next generation of musicians. Her performances have been heard at Carnegie Hall, the Gewandhaus in Leipzig, and at prominent venues throughout the United States and her native Hungary. Don't miss this varied and exciting evening of classics and rare gems! * San Francisco debut Samuel Barber Souvenirs for piano four hands Derek Bermel Turning (1995) Franz Liszt Bénédiction et serment for piano four hands, S. 628 Deux légendes, S. 175 St. François d’Assise: La Prédication aux oiseaux St. François de Paule marchant sur les