Soka Performing Arts Center

Now in its 56th season, the Orange County Youth&nbsp;Symphony&nbsp;and String Ensemble spotlight both new and returning members in an exciting concert led by Johannes Müller Stosch and Lucy Lu—marking the start of an ambitious year of performances and engagements.&nbsp;
PROGRAM
Orange County Youth String Ensemble
NAZARETH (arr. Carrie Lane Gruselle):&nbsp;Two Brazilian Tangos
Edvard GRIEG:&nbsp;Holberg Suite, Op. 40
Richard MEYER:&nbsp;Incantations
Orange County Youth Symphony
Edvard GRIEG:&nbsp;Peer Gynt&nbsp;Suite No. 2, Op. 55
Antonín DVOŘÁK:&nbsp;Symphony No. 9 in E minor, “From the New World”
JOHANNES MÜLLER STOSCH&nbsp;
Music Director and OCYS Conductor
Johannes Müller Stosch is a passionate educator, mentor, and conductor, dedicated to shaping the next generation of orchestral musicians. As Music Director and Conductor of the Orange County Youth Symphony (OCYS), he leads one of California’s premier youth orchestras, inspiring young musicians through exceptional training and transformative performance experiences. Since his appointment in 2019, he has expanded OCYS’s artistic vision, fostering excellence in symphonic repertoire, collaboration, and community engagement. In 2024, OCYS embarked on a landmark international tour, performing in Germany, Austria, and the Czech Republic, showcasing the orchestra’s talent on the global stage.
LUCY LU
OCYSE Conductor &amp; OCYS String Coach
Lucy Lu is an active teacher, soloist, chamber and orchestral musician. Ms. Lu’s performances took her to several cities around the United States, China, and Europe to play in some of the greatest concert halls. She served as Concertmaster of the Bellflower Symphony Orchestra Collective of Orange Country and is the 1st violinist of Plaża String Quartet. Ms. Lu has performed with the Nie’Er Symphony Orchestra in China, Four Seasons Youth Orchestra, LA Chamber Choir, and Celestial Opera Company as a violin soloist and has performed at places such as the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, Cerritos Performing Art Center, Irvine Barclay Theatre, Musco Center of the Arts, Carpenter Performing Arts Center in the Los Angeles area. Ms. Lu also performs with the Dana Point Symphony Orchestra, Millennium Choir and Orchestra, Corona Symphony, La Mirada Symphony, and Rio Honda Symphony Orchestra.

Local Event: Orange County Youth Symphony & String Ensemble Fall Concert

Orange County

Aliso Viejo

California

Orange County Youth Symphony & String Ensemble...

Now in its 56th season, the Orange County Youth Symphony and String Ensemble spotlight both new and returning members in an...

Orange County Youth Symphony & String Ensemble Fall Concert

Mother’s Market & Kitchen

Join us for a free educational overview of Medicare and a time for Q&amp;A in the Cafe at Mother's Market. 
 
Some of the questions we will answer include: 
<ul><li>What is Medicare?&nbsp;</li><li>What does it cover?</li><li>What are the enrollment timelines?</li><li>How much will it cost? </li><li>What if I can't afford it?</li><li>Are there other options?</li><li>What other benefits are available? 
 
</li></ul>
Bring your questions and paper for taking notes. We'll share an informative presentation and answer as many questions as possible. 
 

No specific plans will be represented and no sales will take place - this is a truly educational event to help sort out the complexities of Medicare for beneficiaries. Reservations are desired but not required.

Local Event: Got Medicare Questions?

Got Medicare Questions?

Join us for a free educational overview of Medicare and a time for Q&A in the Cafe at Mother's Market. 
 
Some of the questions...

“The world’s only period‑instrument rock band.” –&nbsp; San Francisco Classical Voice (on Ruckus)
Taking Bach out of the museum&nbsp;and infusing his music with equal parts tradition, funk, whimsy, and fun, Emi Ferguson and Ruckus take you on a wild romp through some of Bach’s most playful and transcendent works. With ever evolving&nbsp;arrangements of Bach’s Flute Sonatas and Keyboard Preludes, orchestrated for baroque flute and the forces of Ruckus that include theorbos, baroque guitars, baroque bassoon, cello, viola da gamba, harpsichord, organ, bass, and even banjo.
Ruckus, the super-powered baroque rhythm section, explodes Bach’s single bass line into a&nbsp;rainbow&nbsp;of textures and colors, continually shifting like light over the landscape as Ferguson’s flute lines dance above. Contrasting the three flute sonatas on the album are new arrangements of a variety of Bach’s keyboard preludes, with selections ranging from the beloved&nbsp;Well Tempered Clavier&nbsp;to alternate movements from keyboard suites that are rarely performed.
RUCKUS&nbsp;-&nbsp;Chamber Ensemble
Ruckus is a shapeshifting, collaborative baroque ensemble with a visceral and playful approach to early music. Described as “the world’s only period-instrument rock band” (San Francisco Classical Voice), Ruckus’ core is a continuo group, the baroque equivalent of a jazz rhythm section: guitars, keyboards, cello, bassoon and bass. The NYC-based ensemble aims to fuse the early-music movement’s questing, creative spirit with the grit, groove and jangle of American roots music, creating a unique sound of “rough-edged intensity” (New Yorker) that’s “achingly delicate one moment, incisive and punchy the next” (New York Times). The group’s members are among the most creative and virtuosic performers in North American early music.&nbsp;
EMI FERGUSON - Flute
Emi Ferguson is on a mission to shake up classical music. Whether playing modern or historical flutes, singing, composing, or speaking about music, she brings centuries of music to life with an adventurous spirit and a fresh perspective. Her performances, ranging from Baroque masterpieces to brand-new commissions are anything but predictable, blending historical performance with a fearless, modern edge.
A 2023 recipient of the Avery Fisher Career Grant, Emi thrives as both a soloist and a collaborator, appearing at major festivals and concert halls around the world. She performs regularly with AMOC*, Ruckus, the New York New Music Ensemble, the Handel and Haydn Society (where she is principal flute), and the Manhattan Chamber Players. As music director of Camerata Pacifica Baroque, she curates bold, genre-defying programs that highlight the Baroque for Southern California chamber music audiences.

Local Event: Emi Ferguson & Ruckus "Fly the Coop": Bach Sonatas and Preludes

Emi Ferguson & Ruckus "Fly the Coop": Bach...

“The world’s only period‑instrument rock band.” –  San Francisco Classical Voice (on Ruckus)
Taking Bach out of the museum and...

Emi Ferguson & Ruckus "Fly the Coop": Bach Sonatas and Preludes

<h5>An Evening with Pacific Symphony with Alexander Shelley, cond. and Dennis Kim &amp; Yoomin Seo, violins&nbsp;</h5>
FEATURED ARTISTS: Pacific Symphony Chamber Orchestra Alexander Shelley, Conductor Dennis Kim, violin
Yoomin Seo, violin PROGRAM: BACH Concerto for Two Violins BEETHOVEN Symphony No. 4
ALEXANDER SHELLEY A natural communicator, both on and off the podium” (The Daily Telegraph”, Alexander Shelley performs across six continents with the worlds finest orchestras and soloists.&nbsp;

With a conducting technique described as “immaculate” (Yorkshire Post) and with a “precision, distinction and beauty of gesture” (Le Devoir), Shelley is known for the clarity and integrity of his interpretations and for the creativity and vision of his programming. To date he has spearheaded over 40 major world premieres, highly praised cycles of Beethoven, Schumann and Brahms symphonies, operas, ballets and innovative multi-media productions. In September 2015, Shelley succeeded Pinchas Zukerman as Music Director of Canada’s National Arts Centre Orchestra, the youngest in its history. The ensemble has since been praised as “an orchestra transformed … hungry, bold, and unleashed” (Ottawa Citizen) and his programming credited for turning the orchestra “almost overnight … into one of the more audacious orchestras in North America.” (Maclean’s Magazine). Together they have undertaken major tours of Canada, Europe and to Carnegie Hall, where they premiered Philip Glass’s 13th symphony.
Since 2015 he has served as both Music Director of Canada’s National Arts Centre Orchestra and as Principal Associate Conductor of London’s Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. In 2024/25, he also began his tenure as Artistic and Music Director of Artis−Naples in Florida, providing artistic leadership for Naples Philharmonic, as well as for the entire multidisciplinary arts organization. In August 2017, Shelley concluded his eight-year tenure as Chief Conductor of the Nürnberger Symphoniker, a period that was hailed by press and audience alike as a golden era for the orchestra. Winner of the ECHO prize and the Deutsche Grunderpreis, Shelley was conferred with the Cross of the Federal Order of Merit by German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier in recognition of his services to music and culture in April 2023.&nbsp; He regularly gives informed and passionate pre- and post-concert talks on his programs, as well as numerous interviews and podcasts on the role of classical music in society. During his time in Nuremberg, he hosted more than half a million people at the annual Klassik Open Air concerts – Europe’s largest classical music event. Born in London in October 1979 to celebrated concert pianists, Alexander studied cello and conducting in Germany and first gained widespread attention when he was unanimously awarded first prize at the 2005 Leeds Conductors’ Competition, with the press describing him as “the most exciting and gifted young conductor to have taken this highly prestigious award.”&nbsp;
PACIFIC SYMPHONY
 Pacific Symphony is the largest orchestra formed in the United States in the past 50 years and has earned national recognition for its adventurous programming, community engagement, and artistic growth. Founded in 1978, the Symphony has been led for 35 years by Music Director Carl St.Clair, one of the longest-serving music directors of a major American orchestra. In 2024, Alexander Shelley was named Artistic and Music Director Designate for the 2025–26 season and will begin his full-time tenure in the 2026–27 season, marking a bold new chapter in the Symphony’s artistic evolution. With a purpose to lift the human spirit through the power of music, the Symphony is a pillar of the cultural landscape of Southern California, enriching lives and bringing communities together through creative and diverse programming. As the resident orchestra of the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, the Symphony presents more than 100 concerts and events each year and a rich array of education and community engagement programs, reaching more than 300,000 residents of all ages.

Local Event: Pacific Symphony: Bach & Beethoven with Alexander Shelley, cond. 

Pacific Symphony: Bach & Beethoven with...

An Evening with Pacific Symphony with Alexander Shelley, cond. and Dennis Kim & Yoomin Seo, violins 
FEATURED ARTISTS:  Pacific...

Pacific Symphony: Bach & Beethoven with Alexander Shelley, cond. 

Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year with&nbsp;Spirit of the Season!, Laguna Beach Unified’s Districtwide Winter Vocal Music Concert at Soka University’s Performing Arts Center. More than 200 student singers from across LBUSD’s four campuses, spanning grades 4–12, will come together for this special night of music and community. Accompanied by a professional instrumental ensemble, students will perform a vibrant mix of nostalgic holiday favorites and fresh, exciting selections. We invite the entire community to join us for an unforgettable evening of music, celebration, and holiday spirit!

Local Event: Spirit of the Season! Laguna Beach Unified Vocal Music

Spirit of the Season! Laguna Beach Unified...

Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year with Spirit of the Season!, Laguna Beach Unified’s Districtwide Winter Vocal...

Spirit of the Season! Laguna Beach Unified Vocal Music

“A bracing, fearless account…Mr. Li’s playing combined youthful abandon with utter command.” – The New York Times
PROGRAM
SCHUMANN:&nbsp; Abegg Variations,&nbsp;Op. 1&nbsp;&nbsp;
SCHUMANN:&nbsp; Davidsbündlertänze&nbsp;(Dances of the League of David)
DEBUSSY:&nbsp; Images,&nbsp;Book 1
MUSSORGSKY:&nbsp; Pictures at an Exhibition
With effortless grace, poised authority, and brilliant virtuosity far beyond his years, pianist George Li performs a colorful solo program.&nbsp;&nbsp;
Since winning the Silver Medal at the 2015 International Tchaikovsky Competition, Li has rapidly established a major international reputation and performs regularly with some of the world’s leading orchestras and conductors. Li gave his first public performance at Boston’s Steinway Hall at the age of ten, and in 2011 performed for President Obama at the White House in an evening honoring Chancellor Angela Merkel. Among Li’s many prizes, he was the recipient of the 2016 Avery Fisher Career Grant, a recipient of the 2012 Gilmore Young Artist Award, and the First Prize winner of the 2010 Young Concert Artists International Auditions.
Praised by the Washington Post for combining “staggering technical prowess, a sense of command and depth of expression,” pianist George Li possesses an effortless grace, poised authority, and brilliant virtuosity far beyond his years. Since winning the Silver Medal at the 2015 International Tchaikovsky Competition, Li has rapidly established a major international reputation and performs regularly with some of the world’s leading orchestras and conductors, such as Dudamel, Gaffigan, Gergiev, Gimeno, Honeck, Orozco-Estrada, Petrenko, Robertson, Pintscher, Slatkin, Temirkanov, Tilson Thomas, Long Yu, and Xian Zhang.&nbsp;

Local Event: George Li, piano

George Li, piano

“A bracing, fearless account…Mr. Li’s playing combined youthful abandon with utter command.” – The New York...

Back by popular demand and quickly becoming a cherished holiday tradition, this annual show is a favorite among Soka Performing Arts Center patrons. This performance will sell out, so get your tickets early!
 FEATURED ARTISTS Eric Rigler,&nbsp;uilleann pipes, Scottish small-pipes, whistles Dirk Freymuth,&nbsp;acoustic guitars Lily Honigberg,&nbsp;fiddle James Yoshizawa,&nbsp;bodhrán, bones, percussion Hannah Crowley,&nbsp;vocals
ABOUT
Dubbed the “World’s Most Recorded Piper,” Eric Rigler (known for his work on Lord of the Rings: Rings of Power, Outlander, Braveheart, Titanic) teams up once again with the multi-talented guitarist Dirk Freymuth to bring you an unforgettable night of Celtic holiday cheer.&nbsp;Reflecting on his connection with Soka PAC, Eric shared:
“I feel very fortunate to perform at some of the finest concert halls around the world, and one of my favorites is right here at home. Soka Performing Arts Center is the perfect venue for my holiday show, “A Celtic Christmas,” and it’s wonderful to witness so many of the audience who make it an annual family event. Thank you!” Drawing from traditional Irish and Scottish melodies featured in their PBS special, Celtic Journeys: Songs &amp; Soundtracks, as well as themes from Eric’s extensive motion picture and television soundtracks, the artists will perform festive music from the Christmas traditions of the British Isles, Ireland, and other Celtic nations around Europe.

With Eric enchanting on the Irish uilleann pipes, Scottish small-pipes, and whistles, and Dirk captivating on the acoustic guitar, joined by special guests on vocals, fiddle and Irish percussion, this promises to be a magical evening perfect for celebrating the holiday season with your family.
An audience favorite, this show sells out yearly, so get your tickets early!

Local Event: Celtic Christmas

Celtic Christmas

Back by popular demand and quickly becoming a cherished holiday tradition, this annual show is a favorite among Soka Performing...

SEONG-JIN CHO
Seong-Jin Cho is one of the leading pianists of his generation, internationally acclaimed for his poetic artistry, technical brilliance, and expressive interpretations. He rose to worldwide prominence after winning First Prize at the 2015 Chopin International Piano Competition in Warsaw, launching a career that has taken him to the world’s most prestigious concert halls and orchestras.
An exclusive Deutsche Grammophon artist, Cho has performed with renowned ensembles including the Berlin Philharmonic, Vienna Philharmonic, London Symphony Orchestra, Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, Boston Symphony Orchestra, and Los Angeles Philharmonic. He regularly collaborates with distinguished conductors such as Gustavo Dudamel, Andris Nelsons, Sir Simon Rattle, Yannick Nézet-Séguin, and Myung-Whun Chung. In recognition of his outstanding contributions to classical music, he received the Samsung Ho-Am Prize in the Arts in 2023.
Cho’s award-winning discography features works by Chopin, Mozart, Debussy, Handel, Schubert, and Ravel. His recording of Ravel’s complete solo piano works and concertos earned the 2025 Opus Klassik Instrumentalist of the Year award. Born in Seoul in 1994, Cho began studying piano at the age of six, later studying with Michel Béroff at the Conservatoire National Supérieur de Musique et de Danse de Paris. He is currently based in Berlin.Jörg Widmann:&nbsp;Sonatina facile&nbsp;for Piano (2016) Sergei Prokofiev:&nbsp;10 Pieces from "Romeo and Juliet", Op. 75.&nbsp; Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart:&nbsp;Fantasia in C minor, K. 396 (completed by Maximilian Stadler) Sergei Prokofiev:&nbsp;Piano Sonata No. 8 in B-flat major, Op. 84 (1939–44)

Local Event: Seong-Jin Cho, piano

Seong-Jin Cho, piano

SEONG-JIN CHO
Seong-Jin Cho is one of the leading pianists of his generation, internationally acclaimed for his poetic...

<h2>THIS CONCERT IS CO-PRESENTED WITH THE PHILHARMONIC SOCIETY OF ORANGE COUNTY&nbsp;</h2>
<h2>FEATURED PERFORMERS</h2>
Orange County Youth Symphony
Join us for a free family concert that brings the magic of orchestral music to life! Featuring the incredible talents of the Orange County Youth Symphony, this interactive performance welcomes audiences of all ages—whether it’s their first encounter with classical music or a joyful return to familiar favorites.
Arrive an hour early to participate in our lobby activities, including an interactive instrument experience, arts and crafts, photo opportunities, and more!
Tickets are free; reservations are required for entry.
JOHANNES MÜLLER STOSCH&nbsp;
Music Director and OCYS Conductor
Johannes Müller Stosch is a passionate educator, mentor, and conductor, dedicated to shaping the next generation of orchestral musicians. As Music Director and Conductor of the Orange County Youth Symphony (OCYS), he leads one of California’s premier youth orchestras, inspiring young musicians through exceptional training and transformative performance experiences. Since his appointment in 2019, he has expanded OCYS’s artistic vision, fostering excellence in symphonic repertoire, collaboration, and community engagement. In 2024, OCYS embarked on a landmark international tour, performing in Germany, Austria, and the Czech Republic, showcasing the orchestra’s talent on the global stage.

Local Event: Free Family Concert with OC Youth Symphony 

Free Family Concert with OC Youth Symphony 

THIS CONCERT IS CO-PRESENTED WITH THE PHILHARMONIC SOCIETY OF ORANGE COUNTY 
FEATURED PERFORMERS
Orange County Youth...

Sahrya is a vibrant musical evening presented by Haneen Choir, celebrating the beauty and richness of Arabic music and culture. Through timeless melodies and contemporary arrangements, Haneen brings together voices and musicians in a joyful performance that celebrates heritage, connection, and community.

Local Event: Haneen Choir Presents: Sahriye

Haneen Choir Presents: Sahriye

 Sahrya is a vibrant musical evening presented by Haneen Choir, celebrating the beauty and richness of Arabic music and...

Richard Marx is a GRAMMY-winning singer, songwriter, and producer whose career has spanned four decades of chart success and creative reinvention. With over 45 million albums sold, one billion streams, and fourteen No. 1 singles to his name (including “Right Here Waiting,” “Hazard” &amp; “Hold On to the Nights”), Marx is the only male artist in history to have his first seven singles reach the Top 5 on the Billboard charts, and one of only two artists—alongside Michael Jackson—to write a No. 1 song in four different decades. Marx’s work extends far beyond his own recordings, having written and produced for artists including Luther Vandross, Keith Urban, NSYNC, Barbra Streisand and Burt Bacharach.
His latest album After Hours (featuring Rod Stewart &amp; Kenny G) debuted on the Billboard jazz charts for the 1st time in his illustrious 40-year career, and was praised by The New York Times, USA Today, Billboard and more. Marx also hosts the hit podcast Stories To Tell (with guests including Paul Stanley, Rick Springfield &amp; Kenny Loggins) and lives with his wife, Cuban-American TV host Daisy Fuentes in Malibu, CA.&nbsp;

Local Event: Richard Marx

Richard Marx

Richard Marx is a GRAMMY-winning singer, songwriter, and producer whose career has spanned four decades of chart success and...

“Jazzy Ash fully connects with her own family’s roots yet incorporates those decades-old traditions into 21st century kids music.”- NPR
Jazzy Ash invites the whole family to come along on a Crescent City inspired, jazzy music adventure with her band the Leaping Lizards. She’s a talented and prolific songwriter as well as a musical treasure hunter, highlighting traditional songs, rhythms and rhymes that have been handed down by African-American children, adults, and musicians for generations.&nbsp;
Her latest album, Good Foot, pays homage to the solid gold sounds of Black American music in the 1950s and 1960s. From Motown to doo-wop, rock-and-roll and touching on the early days of funk, Jazzy Ash has tapped into the soul of these music genres. With her signature powerful vocals, rock solid musicianship and good old fashioned fun, Jazzy Ash truly engages audiences of all ages. “I’m still so blown away this kind of music, which is so full of life and joy, was created during one of the most socially and politically chaotic eras in American history- especially for Black people,” says Ash.“They found ways to have hope and happiness, even through the most difficult times.That’s what we need right now.”
An early childhood education specialist and ukulele instructor, Jazzy Ash offers beginning ukulele workshops for teachers, librarians and students of all ages.
Ashli St. Armant is also known for her award-winning work in children’s education and entertainment, including the creation of <a href="https://www.dandelionartists.com/north" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">NORTH The Musical</a>, which&nbsp; premiered in 2022. Commissioned by Lied Center of Kansas, Chandler Center for the Arts, Segerstrom Center for the Arts, and Playhouse Square, NORTH follows the journey of a precocious teenage boy named Lawrence and his young mother, Minnie, as they escape the Deep South and travel North through the Underground Railroad, to seek their freedom. NORTH is based on actual accounts of slave escapes through the Underground Railroad network.&nbsp;&nbsp;
She is also a celebrated author and well known for her Audible mystery series, Viva Durant, which includes New York Times bestselling story, Viva Durant and the Secret of the Silver Buttons.

Local Event: Jazzy Ash

Jazzy Ash

“Jazzy Ash fully connects with her own family’s roots yet incorporates those decades-old traditions into 21st century kids...

MAVIS STAPLES
Grim days call for fierce love. And Mavis Staples, one of the most enduring figures in American music, is laying it down. Sad and Beautiful World is the fifteenth solo album from a national treasure and multigenerational talent. On her new record, Mavis stands side by side with us in the face of dangers she knows all too well, at a time when more and more people have reason to wonder who and what could be lost.
Sad and Beautiful World was produced by Brad Cook, known for his work with Bon Iver, Waxahatchee, and Iron and Wine, among other artists. The record spans seven decades of the American songbook — a range nearly as vast as Mavis’ career — and includes reinventions of timeless songs as well as original music.
Now 86, Mavis has been performing since the age of eight. After starting out with her father Roebuck “Pops” Staples, sisters Cleotha and Yvonne, and brother Pervis in the Staple Singers more than seventy years ago, she’s the lone surviving member of the group, still carrying her family’s gifts and knowledge with her as a living heritage.
Inducted into several halls of fame (blues, rock, and gospel), a Kennedy Center Honoree, a winner of multiple Grammys (including a Lifetime Achievement award), Mavis is our musical history. She’s collaborated with nearly every major figure of her era(s), from Dylan to Prince, Aretha, and Willie — not to mention countless stars from subsequent generations.
Sad and Beautiful World includes cameos by artists who have become part of Mavis’ world, many of whom are legends in their own right. Buddy Guy, Bonnie Raitt, Jeff Tweedy, Derek Trucks, Katie Crutchfield, MJ Lenderman, Justin Vernon, and others shine a light on her, while Mavis does what only she can do. Embracing vulnerability, she sings close and deep here, drawing the listener into a circle filled with her unforgettable presence.
The first track recorded for the album, “Human Mind,” was written for and about Mavis by Hozier and Allison Russell. Paying tribute to the complexity of life, Mavis expresses faith in humanity: “Even in these days, I find / this far down the line, / I find good in it sometimes.” That magical last word — “sometimes” — shows her choosing hope, even with the disappointments that experience has brought.
Her take on Tom Waits’ “Chicago” flaunts her vocal prowess, opening the album with a high-octane journey North that her family actually made—a dream of a future, but one offering no guarantees. Guitar riffs from Buddy Guy and Derek Trucks layer the song with a musical legacy that rose out of that same migration, a migration that Guy himself also lived.
These are love songs for tough times. The title track, written by Mark Linkous (a.k.a. Sparklehorse), with its funeral-march rhythm and spare lyrics, finds beauty even in the midst of grief over everything that’s been lost. Mavis turns to Gillian Welch’s “Hard Times” to testify that “we’re gonna make it yet.”
On Kevin Morby’s “Beautiful Strangers,” she reminds those in danger, “If you ever hear the gunshot… think of mother / I am a rock.” Released over the summer, her version of Frank Ocean’s “Godspeed,” delivers a staggering benediction to those who stumble: “There will be mountains you won’t move. / I’ll always be there for you.”
“We Got To Have Peace”, written by Curtis Mayfield, her friend and longtime collaborator, is framed by Mavis as a plea and a psalm. Yet her take on Leonard Cohen’s “Anthem” carries a quiet fury that suggests choosing peace shouldn’t be mistaken for submission.
The album closes on two reflective notes. Mavis sings “Satisfied Mind,” a song made famous by Porter Wagoner, and delivers it from the perspective of a long life well lived, reminding listeners that fleeting glory makes for shallow victory. And with “Everybody Needs Love,” Mavis finishes with the joy she insists on spreading, reminding us that she’s here, that we cannot go it alone, and that we don’t have to.
It’s impossible to talk to Mavis’ collaborators without them bringing up the strength of her spirit and her generosity, growing animated over how much her songs mean to them. Allison Russell described hearing the Staple Singers as a preteen and finding out that Mavis had played a key part in the civil rights movement as a young woman.
Mavis Staples is more than a legendary voice—she is a living piece of music history. For more than 70 years, her powerful voice has carried messages of love, hope, compassion, and resilience. From performing alongside the Staple Singers during the Civil Rights Movement to continuing to inspire audiences today, Mavis has used music to bring people together and stand for something greater.
Now, at 85, she continues to make music and history, reminding us that it’s never too late to keep sharing your voice, your story, and your hope. Come visit an unforgettable spirit that keeps inspiring entire generations and the ones next to come.&nbsp;

Local Event: Mavis Staples

Mavis Staples

MAVIS STAPLES
Grim days call for fierce love. And Mavis Staples, one of the most enduring figures in American music, is laying...

Now in its 56th season, the Orange County Youth&nbsp;Symphony&nbsp;and String Ensemble spotlight both new and returning members in an exciting concert led by Johannes Müller Stosch and Lucy Lu—marking the start of an ambitious year of performances and engagements.&nbsp;
PROGRAM
Orange County Youth String Ensemble
Kirt MOSIER: Flight of the Ice Dragon
MENDELSSOHN (arr. Jason Librande): Hebrides Overture
MOZART:;Divertimento in F major, K. 138
Orange County Youth Symphony
BEETHOVEN: Allegro con brio from Symphony No. 5 in C minor
TCHAIKOVSKY: Capriccio Italien, Op. 45
Performances by Concerto Competition winners to be announced
JOHANNES MÜLLER STOSCH&nbsp;
Music Director and OCYS Conductor
Johannes Müller Stosch is a passionate educator, mentor, and conductor, dedicated to shaping the next generation of orchestral musicians. As Music Director and Conductor of the Orange County Youth Symphony (OCYS), he leads one of California’s premier youth orchestras, inspiring young musicians through exceptional training and transformative performance experiences. Since his appointment in 2019, he has expanded OCYS’s artistic vision, fostering excellence in symphonic repertoire, collaboration, and community engagement. In 2024, OCYS embarked on a landmark international tour, performing in Germany, Austria, and the Czech Republic, showcasing the orchestra’s talent on the global stage.
LUCY LU
OCYSE Conductor &amp; OCYS String Coach
Lucy Lu is an active teacher, soloist, chamber and orchestral musician. Ms. Lu’s performances took her to several cities around the United States, China, and Europe to play in some of the greatest concert halls. She served as Concertmaster of the Bellflower Symphony Orchestra Collective of Orange Country and is the 1st violinist of Plaża String Quartet. Ms. Lu has performed with the Nie’Er Symphony Orchestra in China, Four Seasons Youth Orchestra, LA Chamber Choir, and Celestial Opera Company as a violin soloist and has performed at places such as the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, Cerritos Performing Art Center, Irvine Barclay Theatre, Musco Center of the Arts, Carpenter Performing Arts Center in the Los Angeles area. Ms. Lu also performs with the Dana Point Symphony Orchestra, Millennium Choir and Orchestra, Corona Symphony, La Mirada Symphony, and Rio Honda Symphony Orchestra.

Local Event: Orange County Youth Symphony & String Ensemble Winter Concert

Orange County Youth Symphony & String Ensemble Winter Concert

<h5>This performance is part of Wynton Marsalis’&nbsp;final&nbsp;season&nbsp;as Artistic Director of Jazz at Lincoln Center and Music Director of the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra</h5>
Join us in celebrating this icon of the jazz world in his farewell tour with this acclaimed orchestra
WYNTON MARSALIS
Wynton Marsalis is an internationally acclaimed trumpeter, composer, bandleader, educator, and Managing and Artistic Director of Jazz at Lincoln Center. Born in New Orleans in 1961, he studied at The Juilliard School before launching his career with Art Blakey &amp; The Jazz Messengers. Since forming his own band at age 19, Marsalis has performed thousands of concerts in more than 60 countries.
A prolific recording artist and composer, Marsalis has released over 110 albums and written an extensive body of work spanning jazz, classical, orchestral, chamber, and symphonic music. He has won nine Grammy Awards and made history as the first jazz artist to receive the Pulitzer Prize for Music for his oratorio Blood on the Fields. He remains the only musician to win Grammy Awards in both jazz and classical categories in the same year.
A leading advocate for jazz and music education, Marsalis was instrumental in establishing Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Frederick P. Rose Hall and serves as Founding Director of Jazz Studies at The Juilliard School. He has authored numerous books, created acclaimed educational programs, and continues to champion jazz as an essential part of American culture.
His many honors include the National Medal of Arts, the National Medal of Humanities, the United Nations Messenger of Peace designation, and the 2023 Praemium Imperiale for Music.
JAZZ AT LINCOLN CENTER ORCHESTRA&nbsp;
The Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra (JLCO), comprising 15 of the finest jazz soloists and ensemble players today, has been the Jazz at Lincoln Center resident orchestra since 1988 and spends over a third of the year on tour across the world. Featured in all aspects of Jazz at Lincoln Center’s programming, this remarkably versatile orchestra performs and leads educational events in New York, across the U.S. and around the globe; in concert halls; dance venues; jazz clubs; public parks; and with symphony orchestras; ballet troupes; local students; and an ever-expanding roster of guest artists.&nbsp;
Under Music Director Wynton Marsalis, the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra performs a vast repertoire, from rare historic compositions to Jazz at Lincoln Center-commissioned works, including compositions and arrangements by Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Fletcher Henderson, Thelonious Monk, Mary Lou Williams, Dizzy Gillespie, Benny Goodman, Charles Mingus, and current and former Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra members Wynton Marsalis, Wycliffe Gordon, Ted Nash, Victor Goines, Sherman Irby, Chris Crenshaw, and Carlos Henriquez.&nbsp;
Throughout the last decade, the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra has performed with many of the world’s leading symphony orchestras, including the New York Philharmonic; Cleveland Orchestra; Philadelphia Orchestra; Czech Philharmonic; Berlin Philharmonic; Boston Symphony Orchestra; Chicago Symphony Orchestra; London Symphony Orchestra; Sydney Symphony Orchestra; Melbourne Symphony Orchestra; St. Louis Symphony Orchestra; Los Angeles Philharmonic and many others. Marsalis’ three major works for full symphony orchestra and jazz orchestra, All Rise- Symphony No. 1 (1999), Swing Symphony– Symphony No. 3 (2010), and The Jungle– Symphony No. 4 (2016), continue to be the focal point of Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra’s symphonic collaboration.

Local Event: Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis 

Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton...

This performance is part of Wynton Marsalis’ final season as Artistic Director of Jazz at Lincoln Center and Music Director of...

Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis 

“What they do know is how to be an exceptional quartet, whatever repertory they play.” – The New York Times
FEATURED ARTISTS
Frederik Øland, violin
Rune Tonsgaard Sørensen, violin
Asbjørn Nørgaard, viola
Fredrik Schøyen Sjölin, cello
PROGRAM
Gabriella&nbsp;SMITH:&nbsp;Carrot Revolution
SHOSTAKOVICH:&nbsp;String Quartet No. 14 in F-sharp major, Op. 142
BEETHOVEN:&nbsp;String Quartet No. 14 in C-sharp minor, Op. 131
ABOUT
Rooted in friendship and Scandinavian spirit, the Danish String Quartet brings world‑class chamber music to life. With three Danes and one Norwegian at the core, they combine the precision of classical tradition with the unwavering joy of playing together. Despite performances in the major concert halls of the world, they never forget that “music is a way to hang out with friends.”&nbsp;
Whether interpreting Haydn with crispness and clarity or exploring new sonic languages, the Quartet’s voice remains distinctive: technical brilliance balanced with warmth, ensemble precision balanced with heartfelt communication.&nbsp;
DANISH STRING QUARTET&nbsp;
The Danish String Quartet celebrates its 20th Anniversary in 2022-23, and the GRAMMY®-nominated quartet continues to assert its preeminence among the world’s finest string quartets. Formed when they were in their teens, they are renowned for impeccable musicianship, sophisticated artistry, exquisite clarity of ensemble, and, above all, and an unmatched ability to play as one. Performances are characterized by a rare musical spontaneity, giving audiences the sense of hearing even treasured canon repertoire as if for the first time. They exude a palpable joy in music-making that has made them one of today’s most highly acclaimed and in-demand classical quartets, performing sold-out concert halls around the world. Their inventive and intriguing programming and repertoire choices have produced critically acclaimed original projects and commissions as well as popular arrangements of Scandinavian folk music.&nbsp;
This season, the Danish String Quartet continues its DOPPELGÄNGER series, an ambitious four-year international commissioning project. DOPPELGÄNGER pairs world premieres from four renowned composers—Bent Sørensen, Lotta Wennäkoski, Anna Thorvaldsdottir, and Thomas Adès—with late major chamber works by Schubert. Each season, the Quartet performs a world premiere on a program with its doppelgänger—the Schubert quartet or quintet that inspired it—culminating in 2024 in the premiere of a quintet by Adès, after the String Quintet in C major. This season’s new work, by Anna Thorvaldsdottir, premieres in April 2023 and is paired with Schubert’s String Quartet in A Minor, “Rosamunde.” The DOPPELGÄNGER pieces are commissioned by the Danish String Quartet with the support of Carnegie Hall, Cal Performances, UC Santa Barbara Arts &amp; Lectures, Vancouver Recital Society, Flagey in Brussels, and Muziekgebouw in Amsterdam. The Quartet performs 28 concerts in North American this season over the course of three separate tours. Additionally, they are Artist in Residence at London’s Wigmore Hall.
The Danish String Quartet’s most recent recording project is PRISM, a series of five discs on ECM New Series that explores the symbiotic musical and contextual relationships between Bach fugues, Beethoven string quartets, and works by Shostakovich, Schnittke, Bartok, Mendelssohn, and Webern. Four of the five recordings have been released on ECM, and the fifth, PRISM V, is slated for 2023. The most recently released is PRISM IV (2022), which was an “Editor’s Choice” in Limelight magazine. The Quartet’s discography reflects the ensemble’s special affinity for Scandinavian composers, with the complete quartets of Carl Nielsen (DaCapo, 2007 and 2008) and Adès, Nørgård &amp; Abrahamsen, their debut on ECM in 2016. They also released two discs of traditional Scandinavian folk music, Wood Works (Dacapo, 2014) and Last Leaf &nbsp;(ECM, 20127), which was one of the top classical albums of the year, as chosen by NPR, Spotify and The New York Times, among others. A third folk recording is planned for release in 2023 on ECM. &nbsp;
The Danish String Quartet is one of today’s most celebrated chamber music ensembles, known for bringing energy, connection, and a fresh spirit to classical music. Their story began in childhood, when three of the members met at a music summer camp in Denmark and grew together as musicians. In 2008, Norwegian cellist Fredrik Schøyen Sjölin joined them, completing the quartet.
Since then, they have earned international recognition, including Musical America’s 2020 Ensemble of the Year and Denmark’s prestigious Carl Nielsen Prize. Beyond the concert stage, they are passionate about connecting with new audiences and making chamber music feel personal and alive.

Local Event: Danish String Quartet

Danish String Quartet

“What they do know is how to be an exceptional quartet, whatever repertory they play.” – The New York Times
FEATURED...

“The kind of musician who is shaping the future of classical music.”&nbsp;- <cite>New York Magazine (on Tao)</cite>
PROGRAM
Ruth&nbsp;CRAWFORD SEEGER:&nbsp;Music for Small Orchestra
MOZART:&nbsp;Piano Concerto No. 23 in A major, K. 488
COPLAND:&nbsp;Appalachian Spring
ABOUT
Conrad Tao joins the Academy of St Martin in the Fields for a program spanning&nbsp;centuries of brilliance.&nbsp;From the classical elegance of Mozart to&nbsp;the adventurous harmonies of Ruth Crawford Seeger, culminating in the sweeping, quintessentially American&nbsp;Appalachian Spring, this program is both intimate and grand in scope. 
Praised for his insight, sensitivity, and virtuosity, Conrad Tao transforms each work into a living, breathing experience, while the Academy of St Martin in the Fields delivers its signature brilliance and precision. 
CONRAD TAO
Piano
Conrad Tao is a pianist and composer celebrated for his boundary-defying artistry as well as his powerful performances of traditional repertoire. Described by New York Magazine as “the kind of musician who is shaping the future of classical music,” and praised by The New York Times for his “probing intellect and open-hearted vision,” Tao appears regularly as a soloist with leading orchestras and at major venues across the world.&nbsp;Tao is also a cross-genre performer whose recent collaborators include dancer Caleb Teicher, vocalist Charmaine Lee, artist Avram Finkelstein, choreographer Miguel Gutierrez and The Westerlies. He is also a member of the Junction Trio alongside Stefan Jackiw and Jay Campbell. Tao is a recipient of the prestigious Avery Fisher Career Grant, the Gilmore Young Artist Award, and a New York Dance and Performance “Bessie” Award for his collaboration with Caleb Teicher on More Forever.

ACADEMY OF ST MARTIN IN THE FIELDS
Founded in 1958 by Sir Neville Marriner, the Academy of St Martin in the Fields has evolved into a musical powerhouse, an orchestra renowned across the world for its commitment to the musical freedom of its players and the sharing of joyful, inspiring performances.&nbsp;
Today, with Music Director Joshua Bell, ASMF’s player-led approach empowers every member of the orchestra. This creates a direct line and electrifying connection between the orchestra and our audiences, resulting in ambitious and collaborative performances that transcend the more traditional conductor-led model.&nbsp;
ASMF will present more than 100 concerts across 2024/25, having kickstarted the season at the Royal Albert Hall with a BBC Proms performance of Handel’s Messiah with John Butt and a live show of The Rest is History podcast with Tom Holland and Dominic Sandbrook.
Internationally, ASMF and Joshua Bell toured Prague and Switzerland in September and the ASMF Chamber Ensemble toured the US in October. In November, the orchestra will visit Korea and China with pianist Khatia Buniatshvili and violinist Ning Feng, culminating in a concert at London’s Barbican Centre with Buniatishvili to launch her Barbican Artist Residency in December. International highlights early in 2025 include a 19-date European tour featuring cycles of Beethoven’s Piano Concertos with Jan Lisiecki alongside works by Errollyn Wallen, Ruth Gipps and Anna Clyne, followed by a visit to the USA with pianist Bruce Liu and an ambitious, player-led residency and performance of Rimsky-Korsakov’s Scheherezade&nbsp;with Joshua Bell alongside the San Francisco Conservatory of Music.
ASMF has announced a full 2024/25 season at the church of St Martin-in-the-Fields, which includes collaborations with cellist Anastasia Kobekina, pianists Bruce Liu and Alexandra Dariescu, countertenor Anthony Roth Costanzo, violinist Augustin Hadelich and viola soloist Timothy Ridout. ASMF is the principal orchestral partner of St Martin-in-the-Fields, which is the orchestra’s historic home.
Beyond the concert hall, our commitment to a social purpose manifests in impactful projects that harness the power of music to empower people. We have a longstanding history of work which connects with people experiencing homelessness, and our education projects develop autonomy and creativity among emerging musicians worldwide.&nbsp;
Our collective artistic responsibility fosters enduring collaborations with world-renowned soloists, exemplified by our 15-year partnership with Music Director and virtuoso violinist Joshua Bell. These collaborations showcase the benefits of trust and true artistic collaboration developed over time.&nbsp;
Building on its rich global legacy, the Academy of St Martin in the Fields remains one of the world’s most-recorded orchestras, igniting a love for classical music in people around the world through live performance and digital initiatives. Today, we continue a busy international touring programme alongside a significant presence in the UK – making us one of the country’s most celebrated cultural exports.&nbsp;

Local Event: Conrad Tao and Academy of St Martin in the Fields

Conrad Tao and Academy of St Martin in the Fields

“The kind of musician who is shaping the future of classical music.” - New York Magazine (on Tao)
PROGRAM
Ruth CRAWFORD...

This Performance is Presented by Parnassus Society, a nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing classical music, opera and art to Southern California.
Parnassus Society proudly presents Puccini’s La Bohème, one of the most beloved operas ever written. Set amid the artists’ quarters of Paris, this timeless masterpiece follows a circle of young friends whose dreams, romances, laughter, and heartbreak unfold through some of the most beautiful music ever written. At its center is the poignant love story of the poet Rodolfo and the seamstress Mimì, a tale that continues to captivate audiences around the world with its beauty and emotional truth.
Featuring an internationally acclaimed cast and Puccini’s unforgettable score, this semi-staged production promises an afternoon of soaring melodies and deeply moving storytelling in the superb acoustics of the Soka Performing Arts Center.
Parnassus Society’s production of La Bohème brings together an exceptional cast of established stars and rising talents, joined by the Parnassus Virtuosi Orchestra. Tenor Bruce Sledge returns as Rodolfo, bringing the artistry and impressive technique that have made him a longtime Parnassus favorite. Dramatic soprano Karen Chia-Ling Ho returns after her beloved portrayal of Cio-Cio-San in Parnassus’ Madama Butterfly and was recently named San Francisco Opera’s 2025 Emerging Star. Baritone Efraín Solís appears as Marcello following his recent Metropolitan Opera debut, while soprano Alissa Goretzky takes on Musetta after winning First Prize in the Metropolitan Opera Laffont Competition. Baritone Leland Alexander returns after memorable performances in Alegrías! and as Oreste in Iphigénie en Tauride at Opera UCLA. Italian bass-baritone Mattia Venni returns following Parnassus’ La Fille du Régiment and Tosca; his career on a fast rise following a recent Santa Fe Opera award and his upcoming Glyndebourne Festival debut. Orange County favorite David Stoneman appears as Benoît and Alcindoro, and tenor Kevin Corrigan joins the cast as Parpignol. Also featured is the OCSA Puccini Chorus from the Orange County School of the Arts Classical Voice Conservatory, showcasing some of Southern California’s most promising young vocal talents.
The production is conducted by Kelly Kuo, internationally recognized for his dynamic leadership on both the operatic and symphonic stage and currently Music Director of the Oregon Mozart Players and Reno Chamber Orchestra. Stage direction is by Sara Widzer, whose work has been seen with Los Angeles Opera and leading companies throughout the United States and abroad. Widzer is recognized for her compelling storytelling and emotionally resonant productions.

Local Event: Parnassus Society: La Bohème

Parnassus Society: La Bohème

This Performance is Presented by Parnassus Society, a nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing classical music, opera and...

Miranda Ceja

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Janelle Prescher is a dedicated real estate professional bas

Janelle Prescher   Realtor              Berkshire Hathaway

Janelle Prescher is a dedicated real estate professional based in Monarch Beach, California, providing comprehensive brokerage services throughout the Orange County region. Operating out of her office at 2 Ritz Carlton Dr, she assists clients with both residential property buying and selling, ensuring a seamless experience for those navigating the local market. Her practice is grounded in professional integrity and a commitment to helping clients achieve their real estate goals in communities such as Dana Point, Laguna Beach, and Newport Beach. Specializing in buyer and seller representation, Janelle Prescher offers a full suite of services including detailed market analysis, property showings, and expert offer negotiation. Her website serves as a robust resource for clients, featuring active IDX integration for regional MLS listings, mortgage calculators, and specialized tools for finding dream homes. Whether you are listing a property or searching for your next residence, she provides the market insights and professional guidance necessary to make informed decisions. As a member of the National Association of REALTORS and an Equal Housing Opportunity provider, Janelle Prescher maintains high standards of service and transparency. Clients can expect a personalized approach backed by extensive local knowledge and a commitment to professional excellence in every transaction.

Janelle Prescher   Realtor             ...

Janelle Prescher is a dedicated real estate professional based in Monarch Beach, California, providing comprehensive brokerage services throughout...

The Segerstrom Shelby Event Center is a premier museum and e

Segerstrom Shelby Event Center

The Segerstrom Shelby Event Center is a premier museum and event venue located at 5 Whatney in Irvine, California. This unique destination serves as both a curated exhibition space for automotive enthusiasts and a versatile setting for private gatherings. Guests are invited to explore the facility Tuesday through Saturday to experience a world-class collection of Shelby automobiles and vintage petroliana. Beyond its role as a museum, the center specializes in hosting a wide range of private events, including weddings, corporate functions, and team-building activities. The venue provides comprehensive event planning support and customizable spaces designed to accommodate everything from casual conferences to formal celebrations. Visitors can also engage with the community through annual membership programs and upcoming guided educational tours. Customers can expect a distinctive atmosphere where history and automotive excellence meet to create memorable experiences. Whether you are visiting for a day of discovery or planning a special event, the Segerstrom Shelby Event Center offers a professional, high-quality environment that leaves a lasting impression on every guest.

The Segerstrom Shelby Event Center is a premier museum and event venue located at 5 Whatney in Irvine, California. This unique destination serves...

Capstone Federal Credit Union

Capstone Federal Credit Union is a federally insured, member owned financial cooperative. Our purpose is to serve our members by providing savings, loans and other services in a convenient, equitable and competitive manner. Our members are the bedrock of our credit union. Member-owned and not-for-profit, we’re a financial cooperative that puts your needs first. Our core responsibility is to actively serve our members and the communities they live in whenever possible. You’ll be treated with the respect you deserve and be assured of rock-solid dependability and accurate information from our highly trained staff. Our membership is comprised of a diverse social and economic group, and that’s the way we prefer it. We can only strengthen our credit union through a wide-ranging spectrum of worldviews and ideas. At Capstone FCU, we recognize the value of demographic diversity in our staff as well as volunteers. For this reason, we strive to bring people of diverse backgrounds and experiences into leadership roles at the credit union. We consistently communicate our service to members in a meaningful way so that members, potential members and the community at large will understand and appreciate the unique role that member-owned financial cooperatives can play in their lives. We promise to build our members’ financial strength by helping them to become financially self-sufficient and successful. We further this through consumer education and staying at the forefront of leading-edge ideas and educational programs. The financial strength of the credit union is maintained through annual board elections, periodic focus groups, committee involvement and diversity programs. We also provide financial and in-kind resources to others within the credit union community, and participate in cooperative activities from a local to a national level when appropriate. Capstone FCU also supports other public service activities ranging from the Alzheimer’s Association to the United Way.

Capstone Federal Credit Union is a federally insured, member owned financial cooperative. Our purpose is to serve our members by providing savings,...

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Janelle Prescher Realtor Berkshire Hathaway

Segerstrom Shelby Event Center

Capstone Federal Credit Union