May 2024 Concert Program

50th Anniversary Season South Valley Symphony and Maestro Anthony Quartuccio, Jr. Present A 50th Finale Concert Program May 12, 2024 3 pm Guglielmo Winery Morgan Hill, California

Letter from the Music Director We did it! The South Valley Symphony has arrived at the grand finale performance of our 50th anniversary season. Thank you for being part of this joyous celebration of music and community. Today, all of the elements of planning for this season come together in one large bouquet of musical flowers. We begin the performance with a full orchestra fanfare of a heroic nature by John Williams. Then, by popular demand, soprano Amy Norrie returns to sing for you in this springtime setting, the voices of Spring waltz. After this, our orchestra will perform two pieces requested and voted on by our board, audience, and musicians: Two of the mighty movements of Beethoven's grand Seventh Symphony. After intermission, we will present you with Aidan Kwon, our teenage co-winner of the Navaroli Concerto competition. He will perform an outstanding rendition of Gershwin's "Rhapsody in Blue," a fantastic crowd-pleaser and American masterpiece. You might recall that at our 40th-anniversary concert, we performed the "1812" overture" and promised that if we made it to 50 years, we would do it again. Well, today is the day! One of the most celebratory large-scale orchestra pieces of all time will be presented under the tent in the beautiful setting of the winery for you to savor. Blessings to all, and thank you for your love and support in this fantastic 50th anniversary season. We look forward to 50 more!

Anthony Quartuccio Jr. South Valley Symphony Music Director and Conductor

Letter from the Board President Dear friends of South Valley Symphony,

Welcome to the final concert of the South Valley Symphony's 50th season! Today, we are thrilled to present a program filled with rich music. We are delighted to celebrate this milestone season with you and look forward to sharing our passion for music with you. As a member of the orchestra, I can personally attest to the satisfaction of performing for such an appreciative audience. Your presence and support have been a source of inspiration for us throughout the season, and we are grateful for the opportunity to share our music with you. We would like to take this moment to extend our heartfelt thanks to each one of you for your continued support of the arts and the South Valley Symphony. Your enthusiasm and dedication to our orchestra have been instrumental in making this 50th season a memorable one. We truly appreciate your presence here today and we hope you enjoy the performance.

Sincerely, Rob Howe Board President 2022-2024, South Valley Symphony; Musician

Board of Directors

Rob Howe, President Michelle Bigelow, Vice President Suzanne Muller, Treasurer Kristin Carlson, Secretary Tom Brozene, Director

Carl Franzen, Director Mary Anne Groen, Director Lynn Lockhart, Director Susan Rife, Director Trecia Venter, Director

Musicians

Violin 1 Beverly Olivier-Blount ** Hung Lam Jennifer McNarney Ashlie Patri

Flute Roy Madsen* Christina Conner Jennifer Rozario Piccolo Jennifer Rozario Clarinet Walker Blount* Emma Purtell Bass Clarinet Mark Russo Oboe Steve Knapp* Vini Carter Jina Chon Bassoon John Weaver* Alex Pappas Trumpet Jeff Chambers* Jimmy Brozene Tom Brozene Kaylyn Nguyen

Trombone Miguel Ledezma* Tommy Brozene Laura Murphy French Horn Gayle Carlile* Joe Lehnert Jenny Redfern Eric Siverson Tuba Jim O’Briant* Percussion Lilla Szini*

Barbara Rumsby Peter Thompson Violin 2 Sue Piccardo* Sally Gerling Mary Anne Groen Kimberly Grundy

Gail Miller Jan Ryan Viola

Kirk Berkland John Gerling Tympani Martin Groen

Bonny Linnell* Kymber Gillen Michael Reid Elizabeth Smith Cello Rob Howe*

Assistant Conductor Miguel Ledezma

Deb Fenzel-Alexander Nona Jean Childress Sean Roy MacAodha Bass

** Concertmaster *Section leader

Joe Quintal* Linda Jansen

A 50th Finale May 12, 2024 Guglielmo Winery, Morgan Hill Anthony Quartuccio, Jr., Conductor and Music Director “Summon the Heroes” Fanfare (1996) John Williams (1932-) Jeff Chambers, trumpet “Voices of Spring Waltz” (1882) Johann Strauss (1825-1899) Amy Norrie, soprano Selections from Symphony No. 7 in A Major (1813) Ludwig van Beethoven (1770-1827) II Allegretto IV Allegro con brio Intermission “Czardas” from “Die Fledermaus” (1874) Johann Strauss (1825-1899) Amy Norrie, soprano “Rhapsody in Blue” (1924) George Gershwin (1898-1937) Aidan Kwon, Navaroli Competition First-Place Co-winner, piano Overture to “1812” (1880) Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky (1840-1893)

Program Notes "Summon the Heroes" – Williams

"Summon the Heroes" by John Williams is a triumphant orchestral piece that epitomizes grandeur and patriotism. Composed for the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta, it embodies the spirit of competition, unity, and aspiration. With its majestic brass fanfare, stirring melodies, and dynamic rhythms, the composition ignites a sense of pride and determination. Williams, renowned for his cinematic scores, employs his masterful orchestration to evoke a sense of awe and inspiration, capturing the essence of human endeavor and achievement. "Summon the Heroes" stands as a testament to Williams' unparalleled ability to craft music that resonates deeply with audiences worldwide. "Voices of Spring" Waltz –Strauss Strauss' "Voices of Spring" waltz, op. 410 embodies the quintessence of Viennese charm and elegance. Composed in 1882, it's a musical ode to the awakening of spring, where nature's jubilant spirit dances through every note. With its graceful melodies and swirling rhythms, the waltz captures the essence of blooming flowers, gentle breezes, and the joyous renewal of life. Its intricate orchestration paints a vivid sonic landscape, evoking images of frolicking maidens and vibrant festivities. "Voices of Spring" remains a timeless masterpiece, enchanting listeners with its exuberance and capturing the essence of seasonal bliss in a symphony of sound. Selections from Symphony No. 7 in A Major – Beethoven Beethoven's Symphony No. 7 in A Major, op. 92 is a monumental work of musical genius, composed between 1811 and 1812. Revered for its profound emotional depth and exuberant energy, the symphony showcases Beethoven at the height of his creative powers. Its second movement, Allegretto, is particularly renowned for its haunting beauty and solemn grandeur, often evoking a sense of profound introspection and poignant reflection. Beethoven masterfully weaves intricate melodies and dynamic contrasts throughout the symphony, imbuing each note with a sense of urgency and vitality. Symphony No. 7 remains a timeless testament to Beethoven's unmatched brilliance and artistic vision.

“Czardas” from “Die Fledermaus” – Strauss In Johann Strauss II's operetta "Die Fledermaus," the characters Eisenstein and Orlofsky represent the czars of the social scene in 19th-century Vienna. Eisenstein, a wealthy man-about-town, is ensnared in a web of comic intrigue as he navigates a night of mistaken identities and mischief at Prince Orlofsky's lavish ball. Prince Orlofsky, the enigmatic host of the soirée, exudes an air of aristocratic nonchalance, orchestrating the festivities with a blend of whimsy and sophistication. Together, Eisenstein and Orlofsky epitomize Viennese society's carefree extravagance and social hierarchy, adding layers of humor and charm to the operetta's delightful narrative. "Rhapsody in Blue" – Gershwin George Gershwin's "Rhapsody in Blue" is a quintessential American masterpiece, blending classical music with jazz elements to create a uniquely vibrant and evocative composition. Premiering in 1924, its swirling melodies, syncopated rhythms, and improvisational spirit capture the essence of the bustling energy of 1920s New York City. From its iconic clarinet opening to its exhilarating piano passages, the piece reflects Gershwin's genius for bridging the gap between popular and classical music. "Rhapsody in Blue" remains an enduring symbol of the dynamism and cultural richness of the Jazz Age, cementing Gershwin's legacy as one of America's greatest composers. "1812" Overture – Tchaikovsky Tchaikovsky's "1812 Overture" is a dramatic symphonic work commemorating Russia's victory over Napoleon's invading army. Premiering in 1882, it unfolds with thunderous cannons, triumphant brass fanfares, and stirring melodies. Evoking the intensity of battle, the composition builds to a climactic finale, symbolizing Russia's resilience and triumph. Tchaikovsky's masterful orchestration, including incorporating actual cannons, creates a visceral experience for audiences. Beyond its historical context, the "1812 Overture" has become synonymous with grand celebrations and patriotic fervor, regularly performed at major events worldwide. Its enduring popularity highlights its status as a musical icon of victory and national pride.

About Our Soloist – Aidan Kwon

Aidan Kwon is 15 years old and has been playing the piano since the age of 5. He is currently studying under Ms. Kaichi Zhu. He lives in San Jose and attends Valley Christian High School as a freshman where he is a Conservatory Honors member. Aidan is an award-winning pianist with many accomplishments such as earning 1st Prize at the USIMC (United States International Music Competition) Concerto Category in 2021 and 2023, as well as the Grand Prize at the Silicon Valley Music Competition in 2023.

He earned 1st Prize in the USOMC (United States Open Music Competition) Solo Showcase in 2022 and 2023, and the Romantic Composers category in 2023, as well as winning the Outstanding Gold Medalist Award for his Romantic Composers winning performance. He was also selected as a Top Performer, earning a Grand Prize in the New Star Piano Competition in 2023 and a 2nd Prize in the CYS Concerto Competition. He also earned Honorable Mention in 2022 and 2023 at the Marilyn Mindell Piano Competition in Palo Alto, CA, and 2nd place at the Marian Filice Piano Competition in 2023. He was also selected as a Junior Bach Festival Finalist in 2022 and 2023. Outside of piano, Aidan loves to study math and science and loves to watch sports. He enjoys talking to his friends and playing basketball. About Our Soloist – Amy Norrie Amy Norrie, coloratura soprano, is a local artist now residing in Las Vegas, NV. She has performed with Opera San Jose and as a soloist with the South Bay Singers. Her training includes coaching with famed soprano Carol Vaness, Nicole Cabell, Luisella Germano, and concert pianist Dmitry Cogan. Amy performs regularly with tenor Carl Franzen’s opera studio galas. Alongside her identical twin sister, soprano Brenda Padia, both were semi-finalists for NYIOP in New York City. Ms. Norrie is ecstatic to collaborate with Maestro Quartuccio and the South Valley Symphony for another season.

About the Navaroli Young Musicians Contest The Al Navaroli Young Musicians Competition was established by the South Valley Symphony in 2008 to encourage young musicians to develop their talent and skills. The contest is open to young musicians living or training in southern Santa Clara County, San Benito, Monterey, and Santa Cruz counties. It is named for Gilroy resident Al Navaroli, a passionate music lover and longtime South Valley Symphony supporter who dedicated many years of service to the symphony and died in 2008. Although he was not a musician himself, Navaroli was a tireless promoter of the orchestra and envisioned an orchestra of between 50 and 60 musicians, two-thirds of them string players. The competition, which is open to strings, winds, brass, and piano, annually gives musicians between the ages of 10 and 18 the chance to audition before trained professionals, including SVS Music Director Anthony Quartuccio. The lucky winner also earns the opportunity to perform as a featured soloist with the entire ensemble at the orchestra’s spring concert.

2024-2025 Season Save the Dates

October 6, 2024, Guglielmo Winery, Morgan Hill December 14, 2024, Gavilan College Theatre, Gilroy March 15, 2025, Gavilan College Theatre, Gilroy May 11, 2025, Guglielmo Winery, Morgan Hill

About Our Director Anthony Quartuccio Jr. has been music director and conductor of the South Valley Symphony since mid-2006. Under his direction, the orchestra now celebrates its 50th season and has evolved to perform more demanding, diverse, and exciting compositions. During his tenure, the orchestra began the Navaroli Young Musicians Competition; several in-school educational projects; “side by side” performances with local youth ensembles; many world premieres of works by South Valley’s young composers; and highly popular concert opera, youth, and pops programs. Several concerts have featured singers from Opera San Jose and choirs from local high schools. Maestro Quartuccio is music director and conductor for Nova Vista Symphony, associate director of the San Jose Chamber Orchestra, and former conductor at Opera San Jose. He teaches music theory, composition, chorale, and instrumental groups at Kehillah Jewish High School in Palo Alto. In 2006, Quartuccio received an honorary Doctorate of Arts from Santa Clara University and awards from the California State Senate, Santa Clara County, and the Italian-American Heritage Foundation for his contributions to the performing arts in the Bay Area. Quartuccio is an alumnus of the Curtis Institute of Music and studied conducting with Otto Werner-Mueller, Gunther Schuller, and Gustav Meier at Tanglewood. In 2009, he conducted the San Jose Youth Chamber Orchestra in a performance for the 14th Dalai Lama during his visit to the Bay Area and has led the orchestra on several tours.

About the South Valley Symphony History

Gilroy and Morgan Hill musicians formed the South Valley Symphony in the mid 1970s. SVS continues to be the only symphony orchestra in south Santa Clara County. It draws its musicians, board members, patrons and audience primarily from south Santa Clara, San Benito, Monterey, and Santa Cruz counties. The symphony performs four concerts annually between October and May, culminating with the popular Mother’s Day concert at Guglielmo Winery in Morgan Hill. Musicians and concerts The orchestra performs a wide range of music from classical to modern, including symphonies, film scores, choral works, jazz and pops. Music Director and Conductor Anthony Quartuccio Jr. selects programming with assistance from orchestra members and the SVS board of directors. The 40-plus members of the orchestra include music educators and music enthusiasts who learned to play an instrument in school and resumed playing in later years when they had more time. Some are students or retirees, while many work full-time. Some play with other ensembles or volunteer their time to work with music teachers in local schools. Before each concert, the orchestra rehearses for six to eight weeks at Ascension Solarsano Middle School in Gilroy. Musicians who wish to join the orchestra are always welcome at rehearsals. Information is available at www.southvalleysymphony.org. Funding South Valley Symphony concerts and operations are funded by ticket sales, individual contributions, corporate matching grants and donations from local businesses. Additional funding comes from generous grants. The Symphony is a 501(c)(3) corporation with annual expenditures between $60,000 and $70,000. Expenses include the music director and conductor’s salary; guest and solo artists’ honoraria; advertising and promotion; music purchase, rental and management; additional players; programs; and insurance and other The Symphony actively works with area schools to acquaint young people with classical and modern music and to engage them in musical performance. Musicians frequently work with classroom teachers to give master classes and other assistance in the regular curriculum. Students may receive credit for attending performances. Children and students are admitted free to all concerts. This season marks the 14th annual Al Navaroli Young Musicians Competition, for young players living or training in south Santa Clara, San Benito, Monterey, and Santa Cruz counties. The winner of the competition performs with the symphony in the springtime NextGen Youth Concert. professional expenses. Community outreach

How You Can Support Your Symphony! We want to thank you for your support of South Valley Symphony. During this 50th Anniversary Season, we’re looking forward to another 50 years of live, symphonic music for our community. How can you help us achieve this goal? Thanks for asking. In fact, here are some actions you can take to help us continue our mission: Become a season ticket holder: https://southvalleysymphony.org/purchase-tickets/ Bring friends and family to a concert and introduce them to their community symphony family Help advertise concerts by sharing concert information on your personal social media accounts Make a tax-deductible donation by going to our website here: https://southvalleysymphony.org/donate-2/ Explore more ways to support the symphony through in kind donations, corporate donations, corporate matching, and Legacy Giving: https://southvalleysymphony.org/support-svs/ Join our Board of Directors or help start a Friends of the Symphony organization (a group of volunteers who help the front and back of the house) These are just a few ways to help us reach our next 50 years of making beautiful music for our community. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to our South Valley Symphony Board President, Rob Howe, at rch_cello@hotmail.com. Many thanks!

Donors: Crescendo Level ($2,500+) Lynn Lockhart Forte Level (1,500-$2,499) Marie and Stephen Blankley Jenny and Bob Redfern The Symphony Orchestra and Board would like to thank all our supporters for their continued help during our 50th anniversary season. We sincerely thank you for making it possible for us to perform outstanding music for our enthusiastic audience. We could only do the programming we do with your generous support. Dolce Level ($100-$249) Michael Brecheen Gayle Carlile Jeff Chambers Joanne Rife Roy and Linda Madsen John Weaver Mary and Thomas Conrad John Graham Kimberly Grundy Helen Lindsey Aliisia and Aleksi Rosti

Allegro Level ($750-$1,499) Laurence and Sarah Connell Jennifer and Martin McNarney Joe Quintal Susan Seledon Memorial Fund Etrecia Venter Gerry and Carl Reinhardt Steven Johnson and Bonnie Linnell Don and Chris Bevilacqua Andante Level ($500-$749) Rev. Jose Rubio Dr. David and Jovita Reyes Kristin Carlson Susan Hines Rob Howe Nancy and David Bischoff Susan Rife John Blaettler Mezzoforte Level ($250-$499) Barbara Bottini Walker Blount and Beverly Olivier Nora Lemon Benjamin Jackson

Pete and Elena Anderson Roger and Carol Bennett Nancy and Ken McDonald Todd Gaither In Memory of Keith Crum Carol O’Hare Sherrie Wren Adagio Level ($25-$99) Pamela Scholz Joni Simonsen Clarice Wiggins Laura and Nicholas Tindall Michael and Michelle Tacchia Pete Schell

Corporate Partners Nvidia Corporation Texas Instruments Network for Good Johnson Lumber

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