Celebrating Award-Winning Arts Stories Featuring Pacific Symphony
At the recent OC Press Club Awards, Culture OC and Newport Beach Independent emerged as proud winners, demonstrating the power of storytelling and journalism. These accolades not only honor the publications but also highlight the vibrant cultural scene that the Pacific Symphony fosters and celebrates.
Culture OC Team Honored with 14 Awards from the OC Press Club
Culture OC’s writing team achieved an impressive feat, taking home 14 awards, including five first-place honors for their outstanding 2023 stories. Their recognition underscores the team’s dedication to capturing and sharing the richness of the arts and culture scene in Orange County.
Here are some of the highlights from Culture OC’s award-winning entries:
Best Arts/Culture Review
1st Place – Timothy Mangan for “Alexander Shelley Vies for Pacific Symphony Conducting Job“
Best Arts/Culture Story
1st Place – Paul Hodgins for “How Has the Pandemic Hangover Affected O.C.’s Arts Scene?“
Best Music/Entertainment Review
1st Place – Timothy Mangan for “Kluxen’s Debut Impresses, Launching Pacific Symphony’s Conductor Tryouts“
These awards not only celebrate the exceptional talent of Culture OC’s writers but also highlight the symphony’s significant role in Orange County’s cultural landscape. The pieces by Mangan and Hodgins reflect deep insights and critical appreciation, capturing the nuances of the symphony’s endeavors and the broader arts community.
One standout moment from the Newport Beach Independent was journalist Chris Trela’s unique journey, which culminated in a prestigious award. Trela’s involvement with the Pacific Symphony extended beyond the written word; it became an immersive experience. At a Pacific Symphony Gala, Trela made a generous donation, securing the chance to participate in a private master class with the esteemed maestro Carl St.Clair. This extraordinary opportunity did not end there—Trela also had the rare privilege of conducting the orchestra, a moment that would inspire his award-winning article, “Maestro for a Day.”
In his article, Trela captures the essence of this once-in-a-lifetime experience with vivid detail and heartfelt reflection. His narrative takes readers behind the scenes of the Pacific Symphony, providing an intimate glimpse into the world of orchestral music and the dedication of its musicians. Trela’s storytelling not only shares his personal journey but also underscores the Symphony’s commitment to community engagement and educational outreach.
The OC Press Club Awards spotlight the exceptional work being done by Culture OC and Newport Beach Independent. The recognition of Chris Trela’s article is a tribute to the enduring appeal of music and the compelling nature of stories that bring our cultural experiences to life. Pacific Symphony looks forward to continuing its partnership with the media, creating more stories that inspire and connect us all.
