Solano Symphony's Salute to Youth Features Classical Melodies and Cartoon Favorites

The Solano Symphony Orchestra opens its arms to young musical talent during its Salute to Youth Concert, scheduled for 3 p.m. on Sunday at the Vacaville Performing Arts Theatre. Sponsored by the Margaret Beelard Community Foundation, this concert celebrates the achievements of young artists, highlighting the winners of the past Young Artist’s Competition.

Young Virtuosos Take the Stage

The audience will be treated to performances by two shining stars from Davis. Jenna Son, a violinist, and Caitlyn Ohler, a pianist, will perform masterworks by celebrated composers. The violin concerto by Sibelius and Saint-Saens' piano concerto showcase the challenging and expressive capabilities of these young performers.

A Blend of the Classics and Popular Culture

The program promises to deliver a blend of classic and contemporary pieces. The first half includes works from the 19th century, such as Mendelssohn's 'Hebrides Overture,' followed by piano and violin concertos. After the intermission, the concert continues with school musical groups joining the symphony for a performance of Bach's Brandenburg Concerto No. 3 and dances by Bartok and Grainger. The grand finale brings a playful twist with the symphony playing classic tunes from Looney Tunes, which many will recognize from popular cartoons.

Behind the Notes

Maestro Semyon Lohss, the orchestra’s conductor, shared insights into the complexities of rehearsals and the repertoire. Lohss highlighted the challenges in pairing the soloists with the orchestra, ensuring harmony on stage. According to him, selecting pieces that complement each other in tone and theme is crucial for a cohesive and engaging performance.

Impromptu Comedy in Music

Be prepared for a delightful mix of music and humor, as David McCallum, former Vacaville Unified trustee, enlivens the Looney Tunes segment with narrations, possibly including well-loved character lines from the likes of Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck.

Mark Your Calendars

With tickets ranging from $15 to $35, the concert is accessible to all music enthusiasts. Music lovers are encouraged to attend and enjoy an afternoon of exceptional performances that applaud the next generation of classical musicians while also indulging in the whimsical playfulness of cartoon classics.

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