David Wroe and NJ Festival Orchestra present "Mozart in the Garden"

Published by New Jersey Stage

originally published: 05/30/2025

Held under the stars with Westfield’s historic elegance as the setting, this year's concert again promises an unforgettable summer experience.

(WESTFIELD, NJ) -- Back by popular demand, New Jersey Festival Orchestra's highly acclaimed outdoor concert returns on Saturday, June 14, 2025 with "Mozart in the Garden," a spectacular open-air musical celebration set against the grand backdrop of one of Westfield's finest residences, made possible in part through sponsorship by Ray Catena of Mercedes-Benz, Union.

Under the direction of Maestro David Wroe, the NJ Festival Orchestra invites audiences to step into the golden age of European cultural grandeur. From the joyful flair of Mozart’s “Prague” Symphony to the toe-tapping rhythms of Kodály’s Hungarian folk dances and Elgar’s sweeping, romantic elegance, this concert promises a night of unforgettable charm and symphonic brilliance under the stars.

The evening opens with the fiery folk rhythms and gypsy spirit of Kodály’s Dances of Galánta, a tribute to the Hungarian countryside of the composer’s youth. The program continues with the romantic Viennese-sounding elegance of Elgar’s Introduction and Allegro, a virtuosic showcase for the NJFO string section.

Maestro David Wroe

The evening culminates in a performance of Mozart’s joyful and exuberant Symphony No. 38, “Prague,” a dazzling work that celebrates the composer’s special connection to the city that embraced him.

“Viennese giant Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart made his home in Vienna but allowed the city of Prague to adopt him, said Maestro Wroe. His "Prague" symphony jumps for joy and displays a bravado and confidence unique amongst his compositions.”

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“This concert highlights cultural and geographical empires at the pinnacle of their power, all unified through the power of music,” Wroe added.

Held under the stars with full theatrical lighting, acoustically enhanced sound, and Westfield’s historic elegance as the setting, “Mozart in the Garden” promises an unforgettable summer experience.

“This concert is going to be another phenomenal event,” stated NJ Festival Orchestra Board member Keith S. Hertell. “We transform the grounds to create a beautiful outdoor performance experience with stage lighting, acoustics, and a fully professional stage. It’s a huge undertaking and we are deeply grateful to Ray Catena of Union for their support.”

If you go:

Admission: $45 General Lawn Admission (bring your own chairs and refreshments); $85 VIP Reserved Seating (limited access seating close to the stage with chairs provided). Concert begins at 7:30pm, gates open at 6:00pm. Free on-street parking and full accessibility available.

Tickets can be purchased online at www.njfestivalorchestra.org, by phone at (908) 232-9400, or in person at the NJFO office, 224 East Broad St., Westfield.

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