Pasadena Symphony and POPS will commemorate 50 years of its youth orchestra program at its annual Moonlight Sonata Gala on Saturday, Sept. 28. The event, to be held at Pasadena City Hall, will recognize the Pasadena Youth Symphony Orchestras’ half-century of community impact.
Beginning at 5:30 p.m., the gala will feature performances by current youth orchestra members throughout the evening. Guests will enjoy cocktails in the City Hall courtyard accompanied by a student string quartet.
Classical KUSC host Brian Lauritzen will emcee the program in Centennial Square. Attendees will dine on a four-course meal while bidding in a live auction and watching performances, including one by Pasadena Symphony & POPS’ Concertmaster Aimée Kreston with PYSO musicians.
The PYSOs have expanded significantly since their 1972 founding. What began as a single ensemble of 50 students now comprises 11 groups serving over 700 young musicians in grades 4-12.
“This past year, the program also provided over 600 hours of Teaching Artist residencies in Pasadena Unified classrooms,” Pasadena Symphony said. It also launched a free summer camp for Pasadena Unified School District music students.
Gala tickets start at $300, with patron-level packages available for $1,500. Proceeds will support the youth orchestras and other Symphony Association education initiatives. Complimentary valet parking will be available at the event.
Pasadena Symphony and POPS, founded in 1928, features professional musicians who have extensive credits in film, television and recording. Brett Mitchell assumed the post of Pasadena Symphony Music Director on April 1, 2024.
Michael Feinstein leads the POPS as principal conductor, succeeding Marvin Hamlisch. The organization performs at Ambassador Auditorium in Pasadena and the Los Angeles Arboretum & Botanic Garden.
The youth orchestras program is considered among the nation’s finest. It serves students from 29 cities, 17 school districts and 84 schools across Los Angeles County and the San Gabriel Valley. PYSOs have performed internationally and appeared on the television show Glee.
“PYSO fosters dedication, excellence, fellowship, and passion in the development of those who are not only outstanding young musicians, but also outstanding young individuals,” Pasadena Symphony said.
To cap off the evening, guests will dance to music provided by a live band, The Mixtape.
For tickets and more information, visit https://pasadenasymphony-pops.org/concert/moonlight-sonata-2024/ or call (626) 414-2330.
