Locally-Based Symphony Reaches for Wider Audience

The average Los Angeles resident knows there's the L.A. Philharmonic, but what Southwest Riverside residents may not know is that a high-caliber blend of 55 musicians regularly bring the arts to Murrieta.

The Inland Valley Symphony is seeking to change those perceptions with a season-opener Sunday that appeals to a wider audience. will feature eight talented vocalists performing some of the most popular hits from Broadway musicals.

Directed by Maestro Anthony Parnther, the Inland Valley Symphony is set to provide the backdrop when the vocalists bring to life selections from "Grease," "Annie," "Hairspray," and "Wicked," among many others.

"This particular season, our conductor is focusing on reaching a younger, broader audience," said Alana Joos, board president and principal percussionist. "Whereas classical only appeals to certain audience."

Joos described Sunday's combination as symphonic pops.

"This is the first time we've had this many singers in a pops concert," Joos said. "What Anthony is trying to do is start the season and end the season with vocalists."

For the symphony, seeking a broader audience includes reaching those in Murrieta and Temecula who may have never attended a concert before.

A nonprofit, IVS started 17 years ago and consisted mainly of musicians from the area. Fast forward a decade or so, and Joos, a Palm Springs resident, said she is not the only member who is making twice-weekly trips this season to Murrieta.

The conductor lives in Fullerton, and has brought with him a number of musicians from Orange County. Yet others travel from Indio, Redlands and San Diego, Joos said.

The symphony practices Thursdays at , where it also performs. When not practicing there, they meet at .

"(Many of us) are working professionals, we all donate our time," Joos said.

The musicians of Inland Valley Symphony are comprised of professional players, music educators, amateurs and advanced music students.

"It is important to have this (the arts) in every community."

Sunday's show starts at 5:30 p.m. at Murrieta Mesa High School. Tickets range from $8 to $20. See Inlandvalleysymphony.org for more information.