Sip Into Summer With Free Classical Music Concerts on Ocean Drive

Breezy evenings in front of the ocean listening to classical music might be the perfect way to sip this summer away, especially when the performances are free, at an Art Deco historic hotel, and steps from the sand.

The Betsy South Beach has partnered with the Miami Beach Classical Music Festival (MMF) to host a season of classical programming through late July, featuring rising operatic talents and orchestral players in public concerts, open masterclasses, and a chamber recital featuring MMF student musicians.

The collaboration between The Betsy and MMF turns 11 this year with offerings for casual listeners and classical devotees alike. The marquee Opera on the Terrace pop-ups transform the hotel's grounds into an alfresco mini-stage for solos from operas and Broadway favorites. 30-minute sets will happen on select nights, just after sunset, and move inside to Betsy's Piano Bar if the weather turns — and we know how Miami summer weather can be.

Also on tap: Sunday evening performances in Lummus Park across the street from the hotel (at 14th Place and Ocean Drive), including the "Arias at Sunset" series and a showcase from MMF's youth division. Meanwhile, the hotel's Gallery space will host a chamber concert and seven open-to-the-public masterclasses led by a roster of respected vocal coaches, stage directors, and conductors.

The Betsy, that is coincidentally one of the best pet friendly hotels in South Florida, has a steady record of adding live music to their entertainment roster. The property already hosts jazz performances nine times a week — and this summer's lineup adds a classical twist to its genre-spanning programming.

If classical music is your jam check the list of upcoming events below, and why not dress up for the occasion.
Opera on The Terrace | Multiple Dates | 8:30–9 p.m. | The Terrace
In the event of rain, opera pop-ups will take place in The Betsy Piano Bar.

July 7, 11, 16 & 17

Master Classes | Multiple Dates | 7–9 p.m. | The Gallery
Enter the hotel at 1433 Collins Ave. for direct access to the venue.

July 7 – Manny Perez, voice teacher and artistic consultant

July 8 – Sandra Lopez Neil, internationally acclaimed soprano

July 11 – Marc Callahan, bass-baritone and assistant professor at MMF

July 15 – Grant Gilman, conductor at MMF

Ocean Drive Promenade Sunday Sunset Concerts | Every Sunday, June 29–July 20 | 6–7:30 p.m. | Lummus Park
Concerts take place in Lummus Park (at 14th Place & Ocean Drive). In the event of rain, concerts are inside The Betsy Hotel.

July 13 – Arias at Sunset (Ghosts of Versailles cast)

July 20 – Youth Program Spectacular


Chamber Music Concert | Monday, July 14 | 8–9 p.m. | The Gallery
This chamber concert features talented student musicians from MMF’s Orchestral Institute.
Enter the hotel at 1433 Collins Ave. for direct access to the venue.