CACTUS PEAR MUSIC FESTIVAL
About Us
For nearly 30 years, Cactus Pear Music Festival has enriched San Antonio’s cultural life, offering world-class chamber music, mentoring young musicians, and building community through music. Founded by Stephanie Sant’Ambrogio and now led artistically by Jeffrey Sykes with executive leadership by Renee Davis, CPMF enters its 30th anniversary ready to honor its legacy while securing its future.
Our Story
Where Music, Legacy, and Summer Meet
Cactus Pear Music Festival was founded in 1996 by violinist Stephanie Sant'Ambrogio, who served as concertmaster of the San Antonio Symphony for 13 years. She comes from a remarkable musical family: her grandmother, Isabelle Schiebler Sant'Ambrogio, was a concert pianist and teacher; her grandfather, Anthony Sant'Ambrogio, was a violinist and violist who performed with the St. Louis Symphony; her father, John Sant'Ambrogio, retired as Principal Cello of the St. Louis Symphony; and her sister, Sara Sant'Ambrogio, is the cellist of the award-winning Eroica Trio. Music truly runs in the family.
The festival was born from a simple idea: to fill the summer void of classical music in South Texas during the San Antonio Symphony’s three-month hiatus, when many musicians traveled to festivals around the world. One warm evening on the café banks of the River Walk, while sipping a cactus pear margarita at Zuni Grill, Stephanie had her inspiration.
“¡Caramba!” she exclaimed—and a music festival was born, as vibrant and refreshing as its namesake drink.
Since then, the festival has presented 29 seasons of extraordinary performances, creating a rich musical legacy in San Antonio.
In 2022, after 26 seasons as Artistic Director, Stephanie passed the artistic leadership to Jeffrey Sykes, who launched his inaugural season titled “Same Carriage. Fresh Horses: A Season of Continuity and Dynamic Change.” As the festival approaches its 30th season in July 2026, the spirit of innovation and excellence continues to guide its future.
OUR VALUES
What Shapes Us
Accessibility
Classical music should feel open and inviting — not exclusive. We remove barriers so more people can experience its beauty.
Artistic
excellence
We champion world-class musicians and evocative programming, honoring the depth and integrity of the chamber music tradition.
Education & Exploration
Through our Young Artist Program and audience-centered programming, we cultivate mentorship and invite audiences of all backgrounds to explore classical music.
Community connection
We believe music is a shared experience. Our festival is built on relationships between artists, audiences, and the places we call home.
Belonging
We create welcoming spaces where diverse artists and audiences feel valued, connected, and included in shared musical experiences.
Why We Do What We Do
Our Mission
presents inspirational world-class chamber concerts to cultivate a deep love for classical music in San Antonio and surrounding communities. Through accessible performances, innovative programming, and educational initiatives, we create meaningful connections with diverse audiences, fostering a sense of belonging and artistic exploration for all.
What Guides Us
Our Vision
Cactus Pear Music Festival ensures that classical music is approachable and welcoming to all audiences through inviting venues, clear and engaging programming, dialogue between artists and audiences, and outreach that reduces barriers to participation.
