February At-A-Glance
Where did January go? Anyways, this year is a LEAP YEAR. That means we have extra events in February! Check them out and HOP on over to the concert hall. (Ok, we’re done with the puns … for now.)
Internationally acclaimed pianist Alain Lefèvre joins us Feb. 6-8 at 8 p.m. and the 9th at 3 p.m. for Passion, Dreams and Obsession – Berlioz’ Fantastical Symphony. Lefèvre, who will be performing Ravel’s Piano Concerto in G Major, is an “unparalleled” performer, and is noted to have “10 of the most agile fingers that have emerged from Quebec.” Along with pieces by Ravel, “Symphonie Fantastique” by French Romantic composer Hector Berlioz will be played. This classic symphonic fairy-tale tells the story of an artist who throws himself into a drug-induced fantasy because of the despair he feels from unrequited love.
Joining us for our Valentine’s Day shows on Feb. 14-15 at 8 p.m. is former Sting trumpeter Chris Botti! This award-winning, 4x Billboard #1 artist returns to play with Pacific Symphony by popular demand. His influence on contemporary jazz is unmistakable, as he is regarded by some as “one of the top jazz trumpeters in America.” Surprise your loved one with an event that is perfect for this romantic occasion!
On Sunday, Feb. 16 at 3 p.m. we are holding our Janáček & Schumann Café Ludwig concert at the Samueli Theater. If you haven’t been to a concert in this intimate setting, then repertoire by Janáček and Schumann are the perfect works to experience. The personal nature of a quintet allows the musical talent of our principal musicians to shine through, hosted as always by Orli Shaham.
Free Family event! Bring the entire family and join us for Pacific Symphony’s annual Lantern Festival, on Saturday Feb. 22 at 11:00 a.m. to celebrate the Year of the Rat! The Lantern Festival marks the return of spring, representing the reunion of family. Pacific Symphony and South Coast Chinese Cultural Center/Irvine Chinese School join in presenting this free family-friendly festival to commemorate the end of the Lunar New Year celebration with music, dance, art making, riddles and food. Admission is FREE, but tickets are required.
Paganini’s Violin Concerto in D Major is regarded as some of the difficult violin music to perform, even for seasoned professionals. On Feb. 27-29 at 8:00 p.m. his work will be performed by Grammy-winning violin virtuoso Augustin Hadelich in Hadelich Plays Panganini. At only age 35, Hadelich has won international competitions, played for almost every major orchestra around the world and has released music with top music labels. Come out and experience Hadelich’s take on one of classical music’s toughest pieces – conducted by returning guest artist Michael Francis!
Finally, join Peter and his brave animal friends on Saturday, Feb. 29 at 10:00 a.m. and 11:30 a.m., on their adventure to outsmart the Big Bad Wolf! This retelling of the popular Russian fairy-tale, Peter and the Wolf, will be performed by the Magic Circle Mime Co. and the Pacific Symphony in a fun and fascinating 45-minute concert designed especially for children 5-11. Enjoy FREE interactive activities in the lobby inspired by each concert’s theme! Featuring family-friendly arts and crafts, an instrument petting zoo, and opportunities to meet Symphony musicians, local performing groups and more!
