January At-A-Glance
Take time in the New Year to reconnect with the arts, and discover the magic of classical music in live concert! Our January schedule is packed with talented musicians from all over the world, making it the right time to attend an event.
Celebrate Beethoven’s 250th Anniversary by attending Beethoven’s Violin Concerto on January 16-18. Referred to as “King of the Concertos,” it is regarded as one of the greatest violin concertos of all time. Joining us for this concert is guest conductor Christian Arming, one of Austria’s most sought after conductors, who has been highly successful in both the symphonic and operatic fields. Performing the solos is German guest artist Clara-Jumi Kang, known for her impeccable elegance and poise. Also being performed is Dvořák’s Symphony No. 8, which is celebrated for it’s Bohemian lyricism and indelible melodies.
Next, step under the big top at our Family Musical Morning’s zany circus on January 18 at 10 and 11:30 a.m., as talented singers take the stage in a rollicking, kid-friendly version of Donizetti’s comic opera “The Elixir of Love.” This fun and fascinating 45-minute concert is designed especially for children 5-11. Enjoy FREE interactive activities in the lobby! Featuring family-friendly arts and crafts, an instrument petting zoo, and opportunities to meet Symphony musicians, local performing groups, and more! Activities begin at 9 a.m. for 10 a.m. attendees and 12:15 p.m. for 11:30 a.m. attendees.
Sunday, January 19th at 3 p.m. is our concert Sundays at Soka: Mozart. This personal and intimate concert on Soka University’s campus is truly a Pacific Symphony special. Joining Maestro St.Clair in this all-Mozart program is our Concertmaster Dennis Kim and Benjamin Smolen, who holds the Symphony’s Valerie and Hans Imhof Principal Flute Chair. This will be our last event at this beautiful campus until April.
Finally, celebrate the “Year of the Rat” with us as we honor the Lunar New Year! This performance on Saturday, January 25 at 8 p.m. sells out every year as audiences from across our communities come together to feast on a colorful presentation of Eastern and Western music and dance. The concert will feature numerous guest artists, singers and dance companies all lead by our own Maestro Carl St.Clair. It is praised every year for being a visual masterpiece that intertwines dance, culture and music.