Pacific Symphony presents “Nowruz, Echoes of Freedom,” to honor the enduring voices of Iranians and offer a moment of reflection, healing and cultural connection. Nowruz marks the arrival of spring and the rebirth of nature. At a time when Iranian culture and artistic expression carry special meaning, this concert brings together extraordinary artists from across the globe for an evening of shared resonance and hope. Presented in collaboration with the Farhang Foundation, this special observance of the Iranian New Year takes place on Saturday, April 4, at 8 p.m. at the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall in Costa Mesa, Calif.

Music Director Laureate Carl St.Clair and the Pacific Symphony orchestra are joined by exceptional Iranian musicians, vocalists and dancers, who perform a meaningful blend of both contemporary and traditional Iranian music. The roster includes legendary composer and conductor Shardad Rohani, renowned guitarist Babak Amini, acclaimed soprano Sara Hamidi, who makes her U.S. stage debut, internationally celebrated countertenor Cameron Shahbazi, kamancheh player Oliver Hakim, and choreographer and dancers Tara Ghassemieh and Vitor Luiz. Pacific Symphony cellist Warren Hagerty is also a featured soloist.

Each talent brings exceptional artistry and cultural perspective as they enliven the Nowruz concert in collaboration with Pacific Symphony, showcasing their talents in observance of one of the most ancient and important festivals of Iranian heritage.

“Pacific Symphony is grateful to continue its long-standing partnership with the Farhang Foundation,” says John Forsyte, Pacific Symphony President and CEO. “We are honored to present an unforgettable program that honors enduring heritage, artistic excellence, and the beautiful spirit of Iranian voices through the power of music. This event would not be possible without the vision and philanthropic contributions of Pacific Symphony Board member Anoosheh Oskouian, the supporters of Pacific Symphony’s Cyrus Society, and Music Director Laureate Carl St.Clair, who have been instrumental in supporting this yearly performance.”

“Farhang Foundation is deeply honored to continue our long and cherished partnership with Pacific Symphony in presenting this year’s concert,” says Alireza Ardekani, Chief Executive Officer of Farhang Foundation. “For many years, this concert has served as a meaningful cultural bridge, bringing together extraordinary Iranian artists and one of America’s great orchestras to honor the depth and richness of Iranian culture. This year, in particular, it offers an important moment for reflection and for uplifting the voices of Iranians through the universal language of music. We are grateful to Pacific Symphony, Maestro Carl St.Clair, and the many supporters whose commitment has helped sustain this important collaboration and share the spirit and resilience of the Iranian people with the broader community.”

“At a time when the voices and stories of the Iranian people deserve to be heard more clearly than ever, ‘Echoes of Freedom’ stands as a powerful tribute to the resilience, creativity, and cultural richness of Iran,” adds Anoosheh Oskouian, Board Member of Pacific Symphony and Trustee of Farhang Foundation. “Through the universal language of music, this concert honors the enduring spirit of Iranians and celebrates a cultural heritage that continues to inspire the world. It is deeply meaningful to bring this program to the stage and to share the beauty and humanity of Iranian culture with audiences at such an important moment.”

“Nowruz, Echoes of Freedom” takes place on Saturday, April 4, 2026, at 8 p.m. in the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall. Tickets start at $66. For more information or to purchase tickets, call (714) 755-5799 or visit pacificsymphony.org. “Nowruz, Echoes of Freedom” is generously sponsored by the Farhang Foundation, the Cyrus Society, and Anoosheh and Alan Oskouian.

• Shardad Rohani, conductor and composer

• Babak Amini, guitar

• Cameron Shahbazi, countertenor

• Sara Hamidi, vocalist

• Tara Ghassemieh, choreographer and dancer

• Vitor Luiz, choreographer and dancer

• Oliver Hakim, kamancheh

• Warren Hagerty, Pacific Symphony Principal Cello

Farhang Foundation is a member supported nonpolitical, nonreligious, and not-for-profit organization dedicated to celebrating and promoting the richness of Iranian art and culture for the betterment of society as a whole. With a singular mission at its core, the Foundation strives to preserve, nurture, and share the diverse heritage of Iran with the global community. Through steadfast commitment, the Foundation supports a wide array of academic, artistic, and cultural programs and initiatives, fostering collaborative partnerships with esteemed universities, renowned museums, and the vibrant world of performing arts. These partnerships enable the Foundation to cultivate a deeper understanding and appreciation of the multifaceted aspects of Iranian culture and promote cross-cultural dialogue. For more information, please visit Farhang.org

Pacific Symphony is the largest orchestra formed in the United States in the past 50 years and is ranked among the top orchestras in the U.S. by the League of American Orchestras. In 2024, Alexander Shelley was appointed to become Pacific Symphony’s third artistic leader, taking the title of Artistic and Music Director, beginning in the 2026-27 season. He is serving as Artistic and Music Director Designate during the 2025-26 season, which marks Pacific Symphony’s 47th season. Founded in 1978, the Symphony was led for 35 years by Carl St.Clair, who is honored with the title of Music Director Laureate starting in the 2025-26 season.

In its 47-year history, Pacific Symphony has gained national and international recognition, with recent highlights including a 2018 Carnegie Hall debut in celebration of composer Philip Glass; a five-city tour of China; and a PBS Great Performances broadcast of Peter Boyer’s Ellis Island: The Dream of America. In 2024, Pacific Symphony released the world-premiere recording of Fiat Lux, a stirring new commission by composer Sir James MacMillan performed with long-time artistic partner Pacific Chorale. The Symphony has been recognized with multiple ASCAP Awards for Adventurous Programming and included among the country’s five most innovative orchestras by the League of American Orchestras.

Pacific Symphony is also committed to building bridges across Orange County’s diverse communities through music and cultural celebration. Through initiatives such as its annual Nowruz celebration, Lunar New Year Festival and Concert, and the Lantern Festival, along with other community-centered programs, the Symphony brings artists and audiences together to honor cultural traditions while fostering understanding, connection, and shared celebration. These initiatives are part of Pacific Symphony’s broader commitment to using music as a powerful tool for community building and cultural exchange.

With a purpose to lift the human spirit through the power of music, the Symphony is a cornerstone of the cultural landscape of Southern California, enriching lives and bringing communities together through creative and diverse programming. As the resident orchestra of the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, the Symphony presents more than 100 concerts and events each year and a rich array of education and community engagement programs, reaching more than 300,000 residents of all ages.