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Internationally acclaimed violinist Randall Goosby joins Pacific Symphony for a celebratory evening that also serves as the annual Concert of Hope honoring cancer patients, survivors, caregivers, and their loved ones

Pacific Symphony and lead sponsor City of Hope Orange County offer an unforgettable finale to SummerFest 2026 at “Tchaikovsky Spectacular: Concert of Hope” on September 5, 2026, at the Great Park Live in Irvine. The evening features three of the season’s biggest attractions: Tchaikovsky’s soaring Violin Concerto performed by internationally acclaimed violinist Randall Goosby, the thrilling “1812” Overture accompanied by a dazzling fireworks display, and Pacific Symphony’s annual Concert of Hope honoring cancer patients, survivors, caregivers and loved ones.

Led by acclaimed conductor Eric Jacobsen the evening showcases some of classical music’s most exhilarating works. The centerpiece is Tchaikovsky’s beloved Violin Concerto, one of the most cherished works in the violin repertoire, celebrated for its beautiful melodies, breathtaking virtuosity and emotional power.

The evening culminates with Tchaikovsky's triumphant “1812” Overture, complete with cannon-inspired orchestral brilliance and a spectacular fireworks finale that has become one of SummerFest’s most anticipated traditions.

The concert also includes Copland’s stirring “Fanfare for the Common Man,” Anna Clyne’s energetic “Masquerade,” Rossini’s lively Overture to “The Barber of Seville” and the fiery finale from Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 4. 

Making his Pacific Symphony debut, Randall Goosby has emerged as one of the most exciting violinists of his generation. An exclusive recording artist with Decca Classics, Goosby has performed with many of the world’s leading orchestras and conductors and has earned international acclaim for his expressive artistry, dazzling technique, and commitment to bringing classical music to new audiences. His performances have been praised for combining extraordinary virtuosity with warmth, lyricism ,and emotional depth, making him an ideal interpreter of Tchaikovsky’s iconic concerto.

Beyond the extraordinary music, the evening also serves as Pacific Symphony’s annual Concert of Hope. Presented in partnership with City of Hope Orange County, the performance honors the courage and resilience of cancer patients, survivors, caregivers, and families. Through music that moves from reflection to triumph, the concert celebrates hope, healing, and the strength found in community.

“Pacific Symphony is honored to once again partner with City of Hope Orange County for this special Concert of Hope,” said John Forsyte, president and CEO of Pacific Symphony. “This concert captures everything audiences love about SummerFest. From one of the greatest violin concertos ever written, performed by the extraordinary Randall Goosby, to the excitement of the ‘1812’ Overture and a spectacular fireworks finale, it promises an unforgettable evening under the stars. We are especially proud that this celebration also serves as our annual Concert of Hope, honoring the remarkable courage of those whose lives have been touched by cancer.” 

“Hope is found in many places—in breakthrough discoveries, in compassionate care, in the love of family and friends, and sometimes in the shared experience of beautiful music,” said Annette Walker, president, City of Hope Orange County. “We are honored to partner with Pacific Symphony for this year’s Concert of Hope, celebrating the extraordinary courage of patients, survivors, caregivers and everyone affected by cancer. Together, we celebrate resilience, inspire hope and reaffirm our commitment to bringing world-class cancer care closer to home.”

Set against the scenic outdoor backdrop of Great Park Live, audiences will experience an evening of world-class music, spectacular fireworks and shared celebration—an inspiring conclusion to Pacific Symphony's 2026 SummerFest season.

Pacific Symphony’s SummerFest 2026 is presented by City of Hope Orange County. “Tchaikovsky Spectacular: Concert of Hope” takes place Saturday, September 5, at 8 p.m. at Great Park Live in Irvine. Tickets range from $44 to $160. Audiences are encouraged to purchase tickets early for this spectacular conclusion to SummerFest 2026. For tickets or more information, visit PacificSymphony.org or call (714) 755-5799. 

About Pacific Symphony
Founded in 1978, Pacific Symphony welcomes Alexander Shelley for his inaugural season as Artistic & Music Director in 2026-27, building on nearly five decades of artistic growth, innovation, and community impact. His inaugural season reflects an ambitious artistic vision that blends core symphonic masterworks, contemporary voices, multidisciplinary collaboration, and a commitment to expanding access to orchestral music. Today, Pacific Symphony is recognized as a major cultural force in Southern California and performs as a resident company of the Segerstrom Center for the Arts at the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall in Costa Mesa.

Pacific Symphony features an expansive range of programming through the Classical Series, the beloved Pops Series led by Principal Pops Conductor Enrico Lopez-Yañez, SummerFest at the Great Park Live Amphitheater in Irvine, and engaging Family Musical Mornings concerts for young children and their families. Signature cultural concerts for Lunar New Year and Nowruz are joyful musical celebrations that promote understanding and appreciation of the arts from around the world—a priority for Pacific Symphony, which is dedicated to the power of music to unite and inspire. The Symphony in the Cities program brings free outdoor concerts and interactive musical activities to cities across Orange County, making live symphonic music accessible to all.

Through artistic excellence and a deep commitment to community engagement, Pacific Symphony continues to shape the cultural life of Southern California while expanding the reach and relevance of symphonic music for future generations. 

About City of Hope 
City of Hope's mission is to make hope a reality for all touched by cancer and diabetes. Founded in 1913, City of Hope  has grown into one of the largest cancer research and treatment organizations in the U.S. and one of the leading research centers for diabetes and other life-threatening illnesses. City of Hope research has been the basis for numerous breakthrough cancer medicines, as well as human synthetic insulin and monoclonal antibodies. With an independent, National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center at its core, City of Hope brings a uniquely integrated model to patients spanning cancer care, research and development, academics and training, and innovation initiatives. City of Hope’s growing national system includes its new cancer center in Orange County, California, and cancer treatment centers and outpatient facilities in the Atlanta, Chicago and Phoenix areas. City of Hope’s affiliated group of organizations includes  Translational Genomics Research Institute  and  AccessHopeTM.