Who knew, beyond being a gateway to the heavens, that Mt. Wilson Observatory also has fine acoustics! (I didn’t.) To the ears of cognoscenti, the 100-inch dome is a 20th century temple to science with acoustics akin to the great cathedrals of Europe. There, a live music performance-series has taken place over the last five years. I am attracted to the notion of marrying mother nature, the best of science, the best of art, and even a bit of human effort to climb a steep staircase to savor these celestial concerts.
Now entering its sixth season, Sunday Afternoon Concerts in the Dome presents daytime performances — two per date — on the second Sunday of each month, May through October. The series, featuring jazz or classical programs, is thoughtfully curated by Artistic Director Cécilia Tsan, who is principal cellist of the Long Beach Symphony.
The historic Observatory has all kinds of public events on offer from art to film to music to science talks — and telescopes — over the course of May thru October 2023. There are rules.
- Access to the dome performance level is via a 53-step staircase.
- Mount Wilson Observatory is a mile high in elevation so the air is noticeably thinner.
- There is no ADA-compliant access.
- Children under age 12 are not permitted.
Sunday Afternoon Concerts in the Dome | Mt. Wilson Observatory | all summer-long