
[photo credit: Pasadena Symphony]
“We write this email with a heavy heart knowing that many of you have suffered immense loss over this past week,” the symphony organization wrote in a community update, following an outpouring of concern.
The statement said several musicians, Board members and youth orchestra families have lost their homes and schools in the blaze, which also severely damaged Elliots Arts Magnet school and its extensive instrument library, part of the Pasadena Unified School District.
Numerous students have also lost their instruments in the fire, prompting the symphony to host an instrument drive during its upcoming Mozart “Jupiter” Symphony concert on Saturday, Jan. 25 at the Ambassador Auditorium, from 12-4 p.m. and 6-10 p.m.
“We believe in the restorative power of music,” the symphony wrote. “The jubilance of Mozart’s Jupiter Symphony provides the perfect allegorical uplifting voice for our community, which is why we are committed to move forward with this concert as a much-needed reprieve to individuals and our community alike.”
The January 25 performance, featuring Conductor Brett Mitchell and pianist Inon Barnatan, will proceed as scheduled with performances at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. The symphony said affected musicians look forward to “performing for you so that we can all experience healing through music.”
The vibrant program opens with 2024 GRAMMY-winner Jessie Montgomery’s “Starburst,” followed by Florence Price’s soul-stirring Piano Concerto in One Movement and Mozart’s triumphant Symphony No. 41, “Jupiter.”
Alex Chu, the symphony’s Director of Education, will oversee donations of gently used orchestra instruments, excluding those needing major repairs, while monetary contributions can be directed to Christa Lorenz, Director of Development.
Those affected by the fires can request complimentary tickets through this online form, with tickets to be distributed by January 23 on a first-come, first-served basis.
If you’re interested in purchasing tickets, call (626) 793-7172 or visit https://pasadenasymphony-pops.