California Dreamin’

Classics II

California Dreamin’

Step into a rich tapestry of sound with a captivating concert that blends cinematic flair, American spirit, and virtuosic brilliance. Captivating violinist Giora Schmidt takes the spotlight in Korngold’s Violin Concerto in D—a romantic masterpiece brimming with sweeping melodies. In the second half, we premiere Symphony No.2 “Four American Scenes” from local composer Craig Russell.

Saturday, November 8, 2025, 7:30pm

Performing Arts Center San Luis Obispo

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Concert Sponsors: Foundation for the Performing Arts Center and Sands Inn and Suites

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Program Details

RUSHEN

Fanfare et Fantaisie

  • Composed in 1999
  • Patrice Rushen is trailblazing Los Angeles composer and Grammy-nominated artist
  • A genre-defying fusion of jazz and classical styles

KORNGOLD

Violin Concerto in D

  • Composed in 1945
  • Draws from the golden age of Hollywood film scores
  • Featuring Giora Schmidt, violin*

PODELL

We Hold Together

  • Composed in 2025
  • World Premiere
  • Commissioned by Marcelle Kardush in support of the SLO Symphony

CRAIG H. RUSSELL

Symphony No. 2 “Four American Scenes”

  • Composed in 2012
  • World Premiere
  • A musical tribute to the composer’s parents, invoking the wild west, Appalachia, and his rich family heritage

Enhance Your Experience

Symphonic Foray — Pre-Concert Talk

  • Start time at 6:30pm
  • Go behind the scenes with Maestro Sewell, soloist Vladyslava Luchenko, Composer Craig Russell, and other special guests
  • Free to all concert ticketholders

*Unfortunately, due to circumstances beyond our control, Vladyslava Luchenko will no longer perform in the November 8th Concert. We hope to welcome Ms. Luchenko to California in the future.

California Dream’: Behind the Scenes

Go behind the scenes with Maestro Andrew Sewell, Composer Craig Russell, and Giora Schmidt. Join us on Wednesday evening, November 5th, for a special reception, guest performances, and more! Tickets are just $25, and include a catered reception, with your choice of wine or beverage and appetizers, before the program begins.

Embassy Suites San Luis Obispo Edna Room | 5:00 Wine and Appetizer Reception | 5:30 Program Begins

Subscribers, use your discount code for complimentary tickets!

Special Event Tickets

No Ties Allowed — Open Rehearsal

“No Ties Allowed” is sponsored by Nancy Webber and Roger Vogler

See how the orchestra prepares for a concert! A casual environment perfect for the “symphony curious” and those with younger children. Begins at 11:00am. Learn more about No Ties Allowed events.

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