“Symphony in the Cities” Continues in Mission Viejo and Orange presented by Corporate Sponsor City of Hope Orange County

Each summer, a grateful Pacific Symphony says thank you to its community by throwing a big (free!) musical party with some of its Orange County neighbors. For this year’s “Symphony in the Cities,” made possible by Corporate Sponsor City of Hope Orange County, the orchestra mades an initial appearance on July 29 in Irvine, and continues with appearances in Mission Viejo and Orange. Music Director Carl St.Clair has designed an evening of people-pleasing favorites: a delightful mix of classical and popular music and patriotic tunes. From classical masterpieces by Johann Strauss, Jr. and Sr. and Bizet’s Carmen Fantasy and rousing tunes by John Philip Sousa to songs from John Williams, plus, activities for children and families—it’s a perfect way to spend a balmy summer evening. Families are encouraged to bring picnics, blankets, and chairs and arrive early for the Symphony’s Musical Playground and city festivities, prior to kicking back for a little music under the magnificent O.C. sky. 

Maestro St.Clair said, “I think I can safely speak for all of us at Pacific Symphony when I say that there is no time of year we enjoy more than summer! Living in beautiful Orange County, we are so fortunate to have the opportunity to head outdoors for our ‘Symphony in the Cities’ concert series and spend time with people we might not otherwise have the chance to meet. We’re grateful to this year’s wonderful host cities of Mission Viejo and Irvine and to the Musco Center for the Arts at Chapman University, as well as all the fantastic individuals who work so hard to make these concerts an enjoyable experience for all.”

The remaining “Symphony in the Cities” concerts take place on Sat., Aug. 5 in Mission Viejo on “The Village Green” at Oso Viejo Community Park; and Sun., Aug. 6, at the Aitken Arts Plaza at Musco Center for the Arts at Chapman University.

In addition to the concerts, which all start at 7 p.m., the City of Mission Viejo hosts its “Prelude in the Park” at 4 p.m. Other pre-concert entertainment, including the Symphony’s Musical Playground—featuring hands-on activities including a drum circle and creating a musical craft—begins at 4 p.m. in Mission Viejo and 5:30 p.m. at the Musco Center for the Arts at Chapman University. Plus, children and their parents won’t want to miss the always-popular conducting clinic led by the Maestro himself. All children who participate in the clinic are invited to join St.Clair in front of the stage during the concert to help him conduct Sousa’s Hands Across the Sea. Please be advised that space is limited at the Musco Center for the Arts event. You can learn how to register here.

“One of my greatest passions is sharing my love of music with others,” commented Maestro St.Clair, “so every summer I am excited to bring Pacific Symphony out into the community, where it can touch the hearts of more people than ever. This year’s program truly has something for everyone. And I most especially look forward to the children who help me conduct during the concert!” Pacific Symphony President John Forsyte remarked: “Pacific Symphony is thankful to the cities of Mission Viejo and Irvine, as well as the Musco Center for the Arts at Chapman University, who have provided extra support and ensured that Symphony in the Cities remains a part of their communities this year. Because of them, we are able to offer high-quality music in outdoor settings to people who might not otherwise have the opportunity to hear this great music and orchestra.”