Symphony News

To those of us with the Pasadena Symphony Association, it has been painful to see false impressions emerge about the departure of Jorge Mester, but perhaps the most painful is the misperception that Maestro Mester simply walked away from the orchestra he built and loved.  Negotiations were complex, and although both sides attempted to compromise, it was just not possible to reach an agreement that met everyone’s needs.

Everyone who cares about the Pasadena Symphony–audience members, musicians, board members–has been enriched by Maestro Mester’s artistry and will strive to protect and honor his legacy.  I know I am not the only person who feels deep affection for Maestro Mester and I hope we can figure out a way to move forward together towards a positive future for the Pasadena Symphony.

 Melinda Shea

President of the Board, Pasadena Symphony Association

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From a year of rebirth into one of resilience, the Pasadena Symphony and POPS has emerged like a phoenix out of the ashes. Click here to see a detailed outline of our recovery strategy.

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After a 25-year tenure with the Pasadena Symphony, the Association is saddened to report that it could not reach an agreement with its Music Director, Jorge Mester, on revised contract terms necessary for the continued success of the Recovery Plan for a Sustainable Future – a plan that has enabled the Pasadena Symphony Association to once again find solid financial ground.

In response to its economic crisis that began in October 2008, the Pasadena Symphony Association drafted their recovery plan in June 2009 which requires a holistic approach to solving the financial and organizational challenges it had been facing.  “The Recovery Plan’s fiscally responsible and sustainable success necessitates everyone’s participation and demands that the Association address each and every line item in the organization’s $3.2 million-dollar budget,” notes Melinda Shea, President of the PSA Board of Directors. 

 Mester’s final concert as Music Director will be Saturday May 15, 2010 featuring violinist Jennifer Frautschi in an all-Beethoven concert at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium.  This will also be the last concert the orchestra performs in its Classics Series before they move into their new home at Ambassador Auditorium beginning October 2010.

Download PSA’s Recovery Plan for a Sustainable Future here…

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The Pasadena Symphony and POPS inaugurate two world-renowned venues in its 2010/11 Season – the Lawn adjacent the Rose Bowl and the Ambassador Auditorium.  Embracing a distinctive concert experience, the Pasadena POPS return to the heart of Pasadena as it moves to the other Bowl – the Lawn adjacent the Rose Bowl.  Its inaugural concert features the world-famous performers of Cirque de la Symphonie in a dazzling display of breathtaking acrobatics set to such musical favorites as Carmen, Firebird, Swan Lake and culminates in a spectacular fireworks display!

Referred to as the ‘Carnegie Hall of the West’, the world-renowned Ambassador Auditorium is the new resident home of the Pasadena Symphony. Over the years, this acoustical marvel has hosted many world class ensembles including the orchestras of Vienna, Berlin, Philadelphia, in addition to legendary artists Luciano Pavarotti, Placido Domingo, Yo Yo Ma, Ella Fitzgerald and beyond.

Click here to purchase tickets.

We’ll see you at the concerts!

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PSA: How long have you been the Music Director for PYSO?

Jack: 6 Years

PSA: What is your favorite part of your job?

Jack: My favorite part of PYSO is being able to rehearse and converse with some of the most fun and intellectual young people I know. It is also very rewarding to see when a student finally lets themselves “feel” music.

PSA: Tell me about the American String Teachers Competition and why it is so unique.

Jack: ASTA is a National Orchestra Festival that is respected for drawing some of the best young musicians in the country. It is special to be recognized as one of those groups as well rewarding to be able to share our music and talent with some of the best string educators in the country.

PSA: When you were young, what sparked your interest in music?

Jack: I was in PYSO from 1983-1985 as a violinist. I was inspired by my Jr. High music teacher, Rosemarie Krovoza to become a music teacher.

PSA: What kind of music inspires you? Who are your musical heroes?

Jack: Music with expression and passion! My heroes are the everyday music educators that bring music to life in the hearts of young people.

PSA: How do you get Middle School kids to play great orchestral music?

Jack: First, by showing them they can. Then by giving them inspiration to do the very best they can. Sometimes the inspiration comes from within and sometimes it comes from wanting to perform well on a trip, or a concert.

PSA: What’s your vision/hope for the future of PYSO?

Jack: My hope is that PYSO will continue to train the music lovers of tomorrow and bring a life changing educational experience through music to young people.

PYSO’s next concert takes place on May 16th at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium. 3pm. Admission is FREE.

Click here for Jack Taylor’s BIO.

Jack Taylor, PYSO Music Director

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