We’re opening the final symphonic concert with the World Premiere of Rise, a celebratory work written in honor of our 50th Anniversary season by Berkeley-based composer Jimmy López Bellido. The commission is made possible through the generous support of Kathleen G. Henschel & John W. Dewes and New Music USA.

The final piece of the season is Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony featuring a reimagined libretto set by former U.S. Poet Laureate Tracy K. Smith commissioned by Carnegie Hall.

Special guest artists include Shawnette Sulker, soprano, Gabrielle Beteag, mezzo soprano, Edward Graves, tenor, and Nicholas Davis, bass-baritone. Our multi-generational chorus directed by Dr. Lynne Morrow consists of 100 diverse voices drawn from communities all over the Bay Area.

Enjoy a free festive celebration on Sproul Plaza following the concert sponsored by Bayer Corporation.