TOP OF THE POPS
San Antonio Philharmonic opens new season with tribute to Juan Gabriel

The San Antonio Philharmonic has released its 2025-2026 season.
The San Antonio Philharmonic is tuning up for a 2025-2026 season that it hopes will resonate with both classical and popular music buffs. The slate includes esteemed guest conductors, celebrated soloists, and a tribute to the "el divo" of Latin American music.
Fans of flamboyant ranchera legend Juan Gabriel will want to book a seat at the Scottish Rite Cathedral on September 12. The orchestra will celebrate the late Mexican musical icon during a first-of-its-kind tribute performance featuring hits like "Querida," "No Tengo Dinero," and "Hasta Que Te Conocí."
The pops lineup also includes a pair of two-night performances featuring some of the most famous compositions in the world. March 20-21, 2026, will be devoted to the complete Brandenburg Concertos by J.S. Bach, while May 1-2, 2026, will highlight Bach's Mass in B Minor.
On the classics side, the San Antonio Philharmonic curated 10 programs that explore both crucial repertoire works and pieces by living composers. Music Director Jeffrey Kahane will share the podium with guest conductors, including Cosette Justo Valdés. The concerts include familiar works from songwriters like Paul Simon, American songbook staples from Leonard Bernstein, and a world premiere of a violin concerto from Juan Pablo Contreras.
The philharmonic also announced two special events during the season. The orchestra will stage a free concert honoring former Mayor Henry G. Cisneros' recent Order of the Rising Sun honor on July 30 and a lucha libre spectacular on October 11.
Season subscriptions are now on sale, offering a 15 percent discount from regular price tickets and preferred seating access. Individual tickets to the Juan Gabriel tribute can also be purchased online.
