Walt Disney Concert Hall

The California Philharmonic, led by Maestro Victor Vener is an iconic destination for timeless musical performances in the Los Angeles area.

Over the last 15 years, Vener has developed this once small group into the energetic and passionate group that it is today. The Philharmonic Recognized for its high-quality professional performances of music from the diverse genres of jazz, pops, Broadway and opera, the California Philharmonic performs for the public in two Los Angeles venues, including the Walt Disney Concert Hall and the Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanical Gardens.

During the summer 2010 concert series all Saturday evening performances will be held at 7:30 p.m. at the beautiful Arboretum and Botanical Gardens ($10-$18, parking) located at 301 N. Baldwin Ave, Arcadia. There you can enjoy the beautiful starry night set to the smooth sounds of the California Philharmonic. You’ll find a variety of drinks, wines, beers and other light refreshments available for sale at the Arboretum. For a complete picnic dinner, place your order at least 24 hours in advance or more with one of the gourmet catering companies listed on the Philharmonic website. You’re also welcome to bring your own picnic baskets and drinks.

Then, on Sunday afternoons at 2 p.m. shows are held at the Walt Disney Concert Hall ($9-$20, parking) located at 111 S. Grand Ave, Los Angeles and marvel at the acoustics and architecture of this world-class concert hall.  You can purchase snacks and drinks at the Concert Hall Café. For lunch or dinner, visit one of the restaurants including Patina, Fifth Floor and Kendall’s Brasserie—all located in the Music Center.

Tickets for Saturday and Sunday performances are available to purchase online ($30-$100). Here’s the lineup for the remaining summer 2010 California Philharmonic performances.

John Williams & The Rings
July 24-25, 2010
A collection of musical genius from the Cinema to the Opera House featuring excerpts from classic film scores like Star Wars, Superman, The Terminal and E.T., plus excerpts from Wagner’s Ring cycle of operas and a laser show. Featured soloists include Evan Wilson on viola and Michael Arnold on clarinet.

Frank Tony & The Maestro
August 7-8, 2010
The smooth sounds of songs made popular by Frank Sinatra and Tony Bennett featuring Broadway sensation Kevin Earley and the musical stylings of Michael B. Levin. There will also be excerpts from Rimsky Korsakov’s Scheherazade and Elgar’s Enigma Variations.

Beethoven & Broadway
August 21-22, 2010
Classic scores from some of the greatest Broadway productions including Beauty And The Beast, The Lion King, Les Miserables, The Music Man and more with soloists Catherine Ireland, soprano; Marya Basaraba, mezzo soprano; Steve Grabe, tenor; Roberto Perlas Gomez, baritone; and the Cal Phil Chorale.

HelloLosAngeles Tip: For some other great entertainment and attractions in the Los Angeles area, visit HelloLosAngeles where you’ll find information on the Hollywood Bowl Museum, the Getty Villa, Hollywood Walk of Fame and much more.

- by Jennifer Pruett, Los Angeles Reporter for HelloMetro  (Click to leave a message)

Jennifer Pruett

A self proclaimed “queen of everything," Jennifer is a writer, planner and passionate lover of making exciting events extra special. As a creative mother of two she loves art, music, family, friends, exotic cuisine and exploring new areas of self improvement. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in liberal studies from the University of Oklahoma and has been writing restaurant and attraction reviews in the Phoenix Metro area since January, 2009.