The first concert of the 2026-27 Santa Ynez Valley Concert Series, featuring the ensemble Brooklyn Rider, will be 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 2 at St. Mark’s-in-the-Valley Episcopal Church, 2901 Nojoqui Ave., Los Olivos.

“This 46th season is a brilliant array of talent, and fascinating programs,” said Robert Cassidy, artistic director. “We are so thrilled to welcome back Johnny Gandelsman to the series with the rest of Brooklyn Rider. Their intrepid programming and unique voice has cemented the ensemble’s place in the musical firmament.

“Please join us for this special evening of string quartets titled Citizenship Notes.”

With Gandelsman and Colin Jacobsen on violins; Nicholas Cords, viola; and Michael Nicolas, cello, Brooklyn Rider celebrates 20 years of shared musical exploration.

Brooklyn Rider originated in a living room — four friends in search of an outlet for their curiosities, organizers said.

“Inspired by the probing spirit of Germany’s pre-World War 1 artistic collective Der Blaue Reiter, they recognized parallels with their creative community in Brooklyn at the time and began to build projects,” organizers said. “In the following two decades, Brooklyn Rider has undertaken a staggering amount of work, carving a singular space in the world of string quartets.”

For tickets, visit SYVCONCERTS.ORG. General admission tickets are $25; atron tickets, $60; and students receive complimentary tickets.

Most concerts will be followed by a Q & A session with the artists moderated by Cassidy.