About Episode
As the sun sets on Ellen Primack's storied career at the Cabrillo Festival of Contemporary Music, she graces us with her profound insights into the festival's tapestry, woven with innovation and community spirit.

Reflecting on her 32-year tenure, Ellen opens up about the festival's metamorphosis from its bohemian inception to a bastion of contemporary composition; a journey marked by the birth of new music and the nurturing of artistic careers.

Our conversation traverses the festival's pivotal moments, understanding its heartbeat through the shared passions and collective efforts that have solidified its place in Santa Cruz's cultural landscape.

Ellen and I cast a light on the transformative power of music, especially poignant during times of adversity like the recent pandemic. The festival's ability to reconnect and reinvigorate not only musicians but also the community at large stands as a testament to its foundational role within the arts.

As Ellen speaks of the festival's impact, it's clear that it transcends the stage, embedding itself in the personal narratives of those it touches, inspiring growth, and defining careers.

The finale of our dialogue with Ellen unveils a vision for the future, one where the baton of leadership is passed to invigorate the next wave of artistic directors and community leaders.

Support the Show.