Arts Bridging the Gap’s San Gabriel Valley Symphony presents their annual Festival Concert Thursday, April 16th at 7:00pm, a vibrant Side-by-Side celebration uniting professional musicians and student artists from across the San Gabriel Valley community. Led by Music Director Henry Shin, Artistic Director Alex Deng, and Guest Conductor Raphaela Lacerda, this special evening highlights mentorship, artistry, and the transformative power of music across generations. This year’s Festival Concert is also a benefit performance, with proceeds supporting the Symphony’s educational programs, youth mentorship initiatives, and commitment to cultural access throughout the region. The program opens with the San Gabriel Valley Overture, composed by Cameron Moody — a bold and uplifting tribute to the spirit, diversity, and resilience of our community. Violinist Eric Cheng takes center stage in the soaring First Movement of Max Bruch’s Violin Concerto No. 1 in G minor. Sweeping, dramatic, and richly lyrical, this Romantic masterpiece showcases both virtuosic brilliance and heartfelt expression. The internationally acclaimed duo Two Piano Journey performs Francis Poulenc’s Double Piano Concerto, a dazzling and witty work filled with Parisian elegance, rhythmic vitality, and luminous orchestral color. Audiences will also be transported by One Summer’s Day from Spirited Away, Joe Hisaishi’s iconic Studio Ghibli score that captures nostalgia, wonder, and quiet emotional depth. The evening concludes with Malagueña de Esperanza, composed by David Hernandez, featuring a fiery guitar solo that brings electrifying passion to this rhythmically charged celebration of hope and heritage. There are two ways to purchase tickets: in person and online. Tickets purchased in person and online are subject to a $3.70 service fee per ticket (all sales are final). 1) In person– Visit the Playhouse Box Office Thursdays from 3:00pm-7:00pm or day of show starting at 6:00pm. 2) Online– Click the ‘Buy Tickets’ button. PLEASE NOTE: Unless otherwise stated, Playhouse events are presented by independent producers.
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