The historic Lanterman House in La Cañada Flintridge will come alive with the ethereal sounds of the Song of the Angels Flute Orchestra. On Sunday, March 2, 2025, from 2:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., audiences will be transported by delicate harmonies performed under the baton of acclaimed conductor Charles Fernandez.
The Song of the Angels Flute Orchestra is known for its unique orchestral arrangements featuring a diverse range of flutes, creating a harmonic experience unlike any other. This ensemble brings together everything from piccolos and C flutes to the rare contrabass and double contrabass flutes—one of only four in existence worldwide. The F contrabass flute, the only one of its kind globally, adds a distinctive depth to the ensemble’s sound. These extraordinary instruments, combined with winter-themed melodies, are designed to resonate with the audience, offering a serene and reflective musical journey.
Charles Fernandez, a native of New Orleans, is an award-winning composer and conductor who has shaped a prolific career in film, television, and concert music. His compositions have been featured in projects for Disney, MGM, and Universal, including work on series such as “Aladdin,” “The Little Mermaid,” and “Casper,” for which he received multiple Emmy and Annie nominations. Since 2015, he has served as the director of the Song of the Angels Flute Orchestra, contributing original works and arrangements that enhance the ensemble’s dynamic sound.
The concert will be held at the Lanterman House, a historic bungalow-style residence built in 1915 by Dr. Roy Lanterman. Constructed with reinforced concrete—a decision influenced by the 1906 San Francisco earthquake—the house exemplifies American Craftsman architecture. It remained in the Lanterman family until 1987, when it was bequeathed to the city. After extensive restoration, it opened as a museum in 1993 and now serves as a cultural and historical center, hosting community events that reflect its rich heritage.
The Song of the Angels Flute Orchestra is not only known for its remarkable musical arrangements but also for its commitment to community engagement and cultural education. The ensemble actively participates in educational outreach by inviting local flutists of all ages to join their performances, fostering a love for music across generations. This inclusive approach enhances the cultural impact of their concerts, creating opportunities for community involvement and artistic growth.
By offering this musical experience free of charge, the event underscores the Lanterman House’s role as a community hub for cultural enrichment and historical preservation. Audiences are invited to gather, reflect, and be moved by the evocative power of music within a setting that celebrates both artistic expression and local history.
This free concert is an opportunity to experience the magic of winter through the mesmerizing sounds of the Song of the Angels Flute Orchestra. With a repertoire that spans classical, jazz, and international pieces, the ensemble offers a unique auditory experience that resonates with listeners of all ages. As the melodies echo through the historic halls of the Lanterman House, attendees will find themselves immersed in a cultural celebration that bridges tradition and artistry.
Lanterman House, 4420 Encinas Drive, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011. Phone: (818) 790-1421. lantermanhouse.org
