. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
The Stanford Symphony Orchestra endured the ‘storm of the decade’ in order to perform for the Avalon community during the Catalina Island Museum’s annual Holiday Symphony Concert.
Led by its talented young conductor, Anna Wittstruck, the orchestra ensemble and two guest soloists performed compositions by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart earning numerous accolades from the crowd.
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
The Stanford Symphony Orchestra endured the ‘storm of the decade’ in order to perform for the Avalon community during the Catalina Island Museum’s annual Holiday Symphony Concert.
Led by its talented young conductor, Anna Wittstruck, the orchestra ensemble and two guest soloists performed compositions by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart earning numerous accolades from the crowd.
Holiday favorites, such as Jingle Bells, Silent Night and Deck the Halls were performed for the encore with the help of soprano soloist Clancy Cox.
“The museum’s Holiday Symphony Concert was wonderful,” said City of Avalon Council Member Cinde Cassidy. “It’s so inspiring that a concert of this caliber is given as a gift to the community. The museum is to be commended for their dedication in bringing this world-class event to Avalon for another year.”
“Thank you for such a memorable time and hospitality on Catalina Island,” said Chen Zhao, violin soloist from the San Francisco Symphony. “That was one of the best tours of my musical career.”
“This was the highlight of the holiday season,” said Karen King, co-owner of Afishinados. “Growing up in Los Angeles I had the opportunity to experience this type of music all the time. On the island it is a different story. Thanks to the museum for offering such a wonderful experience in our spectacular theater. I got lost in the music and felt like I was on another planet!”
“It was absolutely wonderful to have the chance to return to the island,” said Jeremy Hsu, cellist with the Stanford Symphony Orchestra. “I am so appreciative of these opportunities. Thank you for your warmth and kind welcome to all of us in the Stanford Symphony Orchestra.”
“I truly appreciate the Catalina Island Museum for providing such a professional and inspiring event on our island community,” said Anni Marshall, mayor of the City of Avalon. “The vision to bring culture and new life experiences to this remote location is so commendable. Not only is our adult population appreciative, our young people are so inspired to envision the possibilities life has to offer beyond Avalon. Thank you!”
You can show your support of the Catalina Island Museum, and events like the Holiday Symphony Concert, by donating to its 2014 Annual Campaign. The Catalina Island Museum’s Board of Trustees is matching all gifts to the Annual Campaign up to $30,000.
If you donate now, your contribution will be doubled! It is not the size of the donation, but the participation in the campaign that is so important. Every gift makes a difference.
Donations can be made in person by visiting the museum daily between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m., by phone at 310-510-2414, or online by visiting the ‘Support the Museum’ page at www.CatalinaMuseum.org.
The Catalina Island Museum is Avalon’s sole institution devoted to art, culture and history. The museum, its digital theater and store are located on the ground floor of Avalon’s historic Casino and are open seven days a week, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, the museum may be reached by phone at 310-510-2414 or at its website: CatalinaMuseum.org.
