Critics of the past are easy targets for today’s music fans—perhaps too easy when they pan the music that we have come to love. But in the case of Gustav Mahler, reading contemporary assessments of his compositions is fascinating. In
A Message From Our Music Director: Thoughts On Mahler
My deep love, respect, and connection with Gustav Mahler, the man, his spirit, and his music come via two of my most important mentors: Walter Ducloux and Leonard Bernstein. Bernstein’s resurrection of Mahler’s music in the 20th century, both in Vienna
Is There a “Curse of the Ninth?”
When Carl St.Clair conducts Mahler’s Ninth Symphony next month (Jan. 12, 13, and 14), you might want to reflect on how the composer had to wrestle with the “curse of the Ninth” in order to complete this great work. The
Pacific Symphony Volunteers Spread Holiday Cheer!
As the year draws to a close, we’d like to take a moment to thank our wonderful Symphony volunteers who do so much day in and day out throughout the year. Pacific Symphony is grateful for the incredible creativity and
Classical Guitar Superstar Miloš, Instagram Takeover King!
Pacific Symphony wants to offer a special thank you to guitarist Miloš, our soloist this week, for his terrific Instagram takeover. Not only did he perform Rodrigo’s Concierto de Aranjuez with passion and perfection, he gave Symphony audiences a peek
Humans of Pacific Symphony: Meet Bassist Doug Basye
“I feel like music has always told me stories from a very early age, even before I started playing. Class Act is a chance to have stories come alive. This is probably the most special thing that Pacific Symphony has
2022 Staff & Musician Holiday Music Picks
Music is such an important part of every holiday. Everyone has their favorites. In this blog post, we’re going to feature some of our staff member’s picks. Please note that staff members are listed in alphabetical order by last name. Cindy
Happy Holidays!
December is a momentous month filled with musical celebrations that will captivate young and old alike. And there is nothing that evokes the joyous spirit of the holiday season more than festive music. We invite you to experience the splendor
Pacific Symphony Youth Concert Band Takes its First Bow
In this their inaugural year, Pacific Symphony Youth Concert Band (PSYCB) is the newest addition to the PSYE family of ensembles. Founded in 2022 through the generous sponsorship and advocacy of Hans and Valerie Imhof and John and Elizabeth Stahr,
Rodrigo’s Famous Adagio
Pacific Symphony’s first concert in December—Miloš Plays Rodrigo (Dec. 1-3)—features Joaquin Rodrigo’s Concierto de Aranjuez. Written in 1939, the work could be considered Spain’s most famous musical export. Not only is the Concierto a stunningly beautiful work for guitar and