Midsummer Opera Dream festival
July 6 - august 1, 2026
Opera comes alive in Northern Virginia with a summer of masterclasses, family shows, and inspiring performances.
2026 Events and dates coming soon!
“What angel awakens me from my flow’ry bed?”
— William Shakespeare
Step into a fantasyland of opera once again at Canto Vocal Program’s 2026 festival, Midsummer Opera Dream: Second Edition.
After the wonderful success of last summer’s inaugural festival, Canto returns to Virginia for another magical season filled with music, artistry, and inspiration.
Led by exceptional artists and faculty from around the world — including performers from the Metropolitan Opera, the Washington National Opera, and more — this unique festival brings together singers from across the globe to share their talent and passion for opera.
This year’s edition will feature extended scenes from beloved operas, a delightful family show, and concerts by Canto singers and special guest artists, all taking place at the DreamScapes Performing Arts Center in the heart of Loudoun County, Virginia.
Stay tuned — our 2026 events and full schedule will be announced soon!
Previous events
Canto Gala Concert
Celebrate the grand finale of the Midsummer Opera Dream Festival with a dazzling gala concert featuring standout performances from Canto’s artists.
The Love Concert
Fall in love with opera all over again! Enjoy an enchanting evening of arias and duets celebrating romance, longing, and the many shades of love in music.
Who’s Afraid of Opera?!
Bring the whole family for a unique, interactive opera performance, specially created for young audiences.
Masterclass with Joélle Harvey
Don’t miss this rare opportunity to witness renowned soprano Joélle Harvey as she mentors rising stars in a masterclass filled with artistry, insight, and inspiration.
The Women of French Opera - Musical Lecture with Maurice Lugassy
Join French Culture professor Maurice Lugassy for a captivating musical lecture celebrating women in French opera.
An Evening of Art Songs with Mark Irchai & Loudoun Lyric Opera
For the first time ever, Canto unites with Loudoun Lyric Opera for a special one-night performance, featuring local artists from Loudon County.
Masterclass with Ken Weiss
In this public masterclass, acclaimed vocal coach Ken Weiss guides young artists through nuanced interpretations and musical mastery in real time.
Piano Performance by Dr. Katherine Driscoll
Learn about Mozart’s creative genius with Dr. Katherine Driscoll in a special piano performance, From Thread to Tapestry - How Mozart transforms musical motifs in his piano sonatas.
Masterclass by the Canto Founders
Get a behind-the-scenes look at the art of opera training with Canto’s world-renowned faculty.
Thank you to our sponsors!
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Lindeblad Piano Restoration
GOLD SPONSOR
A century-old family business, Lindeblad Piano Restorations offers world-class piano restorations and white glove sales to musicians all over the world.
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Newman Hospitality
SILVER SPONSOR
Based in South Florida, Newman Hospitality is a family-owned vacation rental management company with properties across Virginia, Indiana and Florida.
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Dreamscapes Performing Arts Center
GOLD SPONSOR
The all-new Dreamscapes Performing Arts Center presents local artists and cultural events in Loudoun County.
