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“Music has always been my first, and strongest, language to communicate with people from different countries and backgrounds.” - Shunta Morimoto

L.A.’s own Yellowjackets, boasting four decades of musical excellence, will headline and open this double-billing featuring two debuts!. Kurt Elling “The standout male vocalist of our time” (-The New York Times), reimagines Weather Report tunes with original band member Peter Erskine. Highlighting compositions by Wayne Shorter, Weather Report stands as the quintessential modern jazz group of the 1970s and 1980s.

“Credited with soundtracking the American Civil Rights movement … they’re showing no signs of stopping. The Blind Boys of Alabama are here to stay” - CNN

“The pianist of the overwhelming sensitivity, who puts forward not himself, but the music…” - The Daily Telegraph (UK)

Due to the passing of Zakir Hussain, his scheduled performance at Soka Performing Arts Center has been canceled. The undisputed tabla star of his generation, Zakir Hussain possesses a “virtuosity that is barely to be believed” (The Washington Post). For his legion of Cal Performances fans, Hussain returns with his dazzling Masters of Percussion program, a gathering of fellow musical heavyweights representing a myriad of cultures and traditions, from Indian classical music to jazz. The spirit of collaboration and exchange runs in Hussain’s veins—he began touring more than two decades ago in a duo with his late father and mentor, the legendary Ustad Allarakha, and today keeps that artist’s memory alive through these spirited concerts featuring the world’s finest percussionists. This year’s Masters of Percussion group features Hussain joined by Indian sarangi player (and son of legendary sarangi player Ustad Sultan Khan) Sabir Khan; Colombian-born jazz master Tupac Mantilla; balafon, barra, djembe, and conga player Melissa Hié, and master of the dholak and tabla student of Hussain’s father Ustad Allarakha, Navin Sharma.

Pacific Symphony, under the direction of conductor Dr. Jacob Sustaita, continues to enchant audiences with its dynamic performances and innovative programming. Celebrating its 45th anniversary, the Symphony has established itself as the largest orchestra formed in the U.S. in the last 50 years, gaining recognition on both national and international stages. Soka Performing Arts Center is proud to be the home of the Pacific Symphony Chamber Orchestra.

Leif Ove Andsnes is a pianist whose artistry has been recognized with eleven GRAMMY® nominations and seven Gramophone Awards, cementing his status as a leading figure in classical music. His performances are celebrated for their elegance, power, and profound insight, making each concert a must-see event for any music enthusiast.

Gil Shaham and Orli Shaham, two musical virtuosos in their own right, are joining forces for an extraordinary recital. GRAMMY® Award-winning violinist Gil Shaham, celebrated for his flawless technique and unmatched warmth, and acclaimed pianist Orli Shaham, recognized for her grace and brilliance, are set to deliver a performance that promises to captivate and inspire.

At age 13, violinist Randall Goosby performed with the New York Philharmonic in a Young People’s Concert earning him a rave review from The New York Times, “…his performance won him a deserved standing ovation for its sheer virtuosity.” The San Diego native returns to take audiences on a musical journey.

NEA Jazz Master, two-time Emmy and Oscar nominee, and eight-time GRAMMY®-winning trumpeter and composer Terence Blanchard has established himself as the quintessential 21st-century Renaissance man. In celebration of his artistic achievements, Blanchard will reimagine the music from his critically acclaimed album FLOW for a 20th-anniversary tour in 2025.