Mozart and Manito: a wonderful match

The classical symmetry of Manito Park’s Duncan Gardens seems ideally suited for the classical symmetry of Mozart.

That’s one reason why Connoisseur Concerts’ annual “Mozart in Manito” concerts have become such a Spokane tradition. These midsummer concerts are held on the lawn just east of Duncan Gardens, which means that Mozart mingles with marigolds.

Yet concertgoers have discovered that the setting works well for plenty of other composers as well; this year that means Beethoven, Brahms and Puccini, among others.

The first half of the program will be all-Mozart, including some opera excerpts. The second half will feature a variety of composers.

The Connoisseur Concerts Wind Ensemble, under the direction of music director Verne Windham, will be joined by a pair of guest vocalists, sopranos Darnelle Preston and Tamara Schupman.

The program for this year’s concert includes:

“ Mozart’s Serenade No. 10 in E-flat Major.

“ “Un Moto di Gioia,” from Mozart’s “Marriage of Figaro.”

“ “L’Amero Saro Costante” from Mozart’s “Il Re Pastore.”

“ “Canzonetta sull’aria” from Mozart’s “Marriage of Figaro.”

“ “Rondino,” by Beethoven.

“ “Je Veux Vivre,” from Gounod’s “Romeo & Juliet.”

“ “Donde Lieta,” from Puccini’s “La Boheme.”

“ “Dome epais,” by Delibes.

“ “Variations on a Theme by Haydn,” by Brahms.

As usual, you can either sit at a table and have dessert and coffee, provided by the Luna restaurant ($28), or you can bring a blanket and lawn chair and just enjoy the music ($10). If you want to reserve an entire table for eight, the tab will be $224. Be aware: Tickets often sell out early.

Many ticketholders bring a picnic to eat before the concert; dinners also may be ordered directly from Luna at 448-2383. You can show up any time after 5:30 p.m.

If the weather’s bad, the rain venues will be: Tuesday, St. Augustine Church, Bernard and 19th Avenue; and Wednesday, St. John’s Cathedral, Grand and 12th Avenue.