10 Things About Erin Combs Pearl & Mainly Mozart

“And though she be little, she is fierce”
– Shakespeare

Using the genius of Mozart as inspiration, Mainly Mozart brings together world-class musicians from across North America for classical and innovative musical programs. Through Mainly Mozart’s youth orchestra, Mainly Mozart is ensuring the preservation and appreciation of classical music by giving young musicians the opportunity to learn and perform together. Along with her husband Howard Pearl, Erin Combs Pearl is serving as the 2025 Culinary Concerto Gala Co-Chair.

#1 I grew up in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. My father taught me to never give up. When he was 7 yrs old, he had spinal meningitis. He was told that if he did survive, he would never walk again. You never told my Dad that he could not do something, those were just words of motivation for him. He went on to graduate from West Point and flew 7 missions in the Pacific.

#2 I was the first female News Photographer in Canada and worked for the Toronto Star.

#3 Favorite Travel Destination: Galapagos. I would like to also visit Africa – it is on my bucket list to go on Safari.

#4 Favorite movie: “Saving Private Ryan”…the last movie I saw with my Dad.

#5 Book recommendation: “The Locust” by Terry Hayes.

#6 We have Bedlington Terriers named Tiglet and Dunes.

#7 I feel I have a responsibility to contribute to the sustainability of all the things that make San Diego beautiful, not just the scenery but the culture. More specifically, in this case the Mainly Mozart organization that supports the educational and intellectual value of classical music and youth when brought together.

#8 We were invited by close friends to attend a Mainly Mozart concert – my husband, Howard, and I were hooked. The quality of the music and access to some of the finest classical and jazz musicians of our time brought right here to San Diego for all of us to enjoy. It is not the only cause we are supporting, but it is one that struck a deep and personal chord. And when we learned of the youth orchestra, understanding the value of music and intellectual development, it felt right.

#9 Mainly Mozart is the largest Mozart festival in the US and home to the largest gathering of concertmasters and principal players in all of North America. Its annual Mainly Mozart All-Star Orchestra Festival brings top players from 30+ of the nation’s leading orchestras – including the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Boston Symphony, and Cleveland Orchestra – all together to perform under the baton of the renowned Maestro Michael Francis. Mainly Mozart’s youth orchestra also serves top quality music education to 350+ students across San Diego County.

#10 The second annual Culinary Concerto Gala will support Mainly Mozart’s many outreach and educational programs.

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