The Fresno Philharmonic’s 70th season commences with a captivating homage to the orchestra’s Armenian roots, featuring Khachaturian’s evocative Spartacus Suite No. 2. This performance promises to be a profound exploration of cultural heritage and musical brilliance. The evening will also showcase the extraordinary talent of pianist Sergei Babayan, who will bring to life Rachmaninoff’s formidable Piano Concerto No. 3. Known for its technical demands and emotional depth, this concerto is a testament to Rachmaninoff’s genius and Babayan’s virtuosity. Adding to the evening’s rich tapestry, Yūzō Toyama’s Rhapsody for Orchestra, inspired by traditional Japanese folk songs, will set a poignant prelude to the orchestra’s February concert, which honors Fresno’s Japanese American history. Under the baton of conductor Rei Hotoda, this concert promises a night of exceptional artistry and cultural reflection, celebrating the diverse influences that shape the Fresno Philharmonic’s unique sound.

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Babayan Plays Rachmaninoff

Paul Shaghoian Memorial Concert Hall

“Why be a second-rate Ravel when you can be a first-rate Gershwin?”  Thus said the great French composer when the great American song writer asked him for lessons.  Gershwin’s jazzy tone poem about the City of Lights pairs wonderfully with Ravel’s Boléro, a provocation inspired by the rhythms of the  fandango and the factory.  Between these two popular pieces, we welcome back the incredible Joyce Yang to perform Samuel Barber’s titanic Piano Concerto. This cinematic and passionate work is a true American masterpiece.

Boléro Blowout

A jazz inflected foxtrot for orchestra, a saxophone concerto inspired by the legendary John Coltrane and one of Brahms’ most masterly symphonies make for an energetic and eclectic program. Saxophone master Timothy McAllister joins us for French composer Guillaume Connesson’s A Kind of Trane. Rei Hotoda brings her signature interpretive energy to Brahms’ Symphony No. 3, whose gorgeous Third Movement has been featured in multiple films and was recorded by the Ramsay Lewis Trio as You’ll Love Me Yet.

A Symphony Supreme

Join us for an evening celebrating the Golden Era of Mariachi music with Grammy award winning Mariachi Los Camperos – led by Jesús “Chuy” Guzmán, considered by many to be among the finest mariachi ensembles in the world.  Guest conductor Alexandra Arrieche leads the Fresno Philharmonic for this exciting exploration of música Mexicana.

Mariachi Los Camperos

William Saroyan Theatre

Music of Heaven and Earth. Music Director Rei Hotoda’s exploration of the symphonies of Gustav Mahler continues with his Fourth Symphony.  This delightful evocation of childhood innocence was strongly influenced by Schubertian lyricism and German folk poetry. It culminates in a song for soprano describing a child’s view of Heaven.  The devastation of nature from California’s recent spate of wildfires is the subject of Gabriela Lena Frank’s moving 2021 work Contested Eden.

Mahler Here & Now

Rei Hotoda and the Fresno Philharmonic launch a multi-season survey of the music of Gustav Mahler with a performance of his Symphony No. 1, Titan. Mahler Here and Now will make the case for the continuing relevance of this visionary composer for today. Lili Boulanger's rarely heard impressionistic masterpiece D'un matin de Printemps provides a counterpoint to the evocation of nature in Mahler's symphonies. Proof of COVID-19 vaccination or negative COVID-19 test within 48 hours will be required. Please see the latest COVID-19 updates on our website for full information on vaccine, testing and mask requirements.

Mahler Here and Now

The Fresno Philharmonic presents the world premiere of Fresno composer Kenneth Froelich's Melt: Clarinet Concerto with soloist Jorge Montilla Moreno. Mexican composer Juan Pablo Contreras' exciting Mariachitlan and Elgar's moving Enigma Variations round out this wide ranging program.

Enigma Variations

Out of concern for the health and safety of our employees, audience and community, the Fresno Philharmonic has made the difficult decision to cancel its January 16 Masterworks Concert New Worlds due to the continually evolving COVID-19 Omicron variant situation. Ticket holders will receive information directly from the Philharmonic on how to donate, exchange or refund their tickets for the cancelled concert.

New Worlds

The Fresno Philharmonic proudly presents "Orchestral Virtuosity," a program that showcases the exceptional talent and artistry of its musicians. This concert features a diverse selection of compositions designed to highlight the unique qualities of the orchestra's sections. Bartók's Concerto for Orchestra is a masterful piece that brings out the vibrant colors and distinct characteristics of each instrumental group, creating a rich tapestry of sound. Respighi's Poema autunnale offers a lyrical and evocative showcase for Concertmaster Stephanie Sant'Ambrogio, whose violin performance promises to captivate with its expressive depth. The program also includes Mozart's lively Marriage of Figaro Overture, a piece known for its energetic and spirited orchestral interplay. Additionally, Reena Esmail's REMember adds a contemporary touch, providing further opportunities for the orchestra to demonstrate its versatility and dynamic range. Under the baton of conductor Rei Hotoda, this concert is a celebration of orchestral brilliance and musical excellence.

Orchestral Virtuosity

Experience the return of Fresno’s cherished holiday musical tradition with the Fresno Philharmonic's "Home for the Holidays" concert. Under the baton of Music Director Rei Hotoda, this festive event brings together the Fresno Philharmonic and the Fresno Master Chorale, directed by Anna Hamre, for a symphonic celebration of the season. The concert promises a joyous atmosphere filled with the harmonious blend of orchestral and choral music, creating an enchanting experience that captures the spirit of the holidays. Special guests will add to the festive ambiance, making it a memorable evening of musical delight. The event also features delightful pre-concert activities, including lobby caroling, hot chocolate, and opportunities for photos by the Christmas tree, enhancing the overall holiday experience. This concert is a perfect way to immerse yourself in the warmth and joy of the season through the power of music.

Home for the Holidays

The Fresno Philharmonic proudly presents a captivating evening of music in recognition of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, featuring the extraordinary talents of soprano Karen Slack. The concert begins with Nkeiru Okoye’s dynamic composition, "Voices Shouting Out," an energetic piece that sets a powerful tone for the evening. Following this, Karen Slack will deliver a poignant performance of Mahler’s "Rückert-Lieder," a series of songs that explore themes of love, loss, and introspection, rendered with haunting beauty. The program concludes with Leonard Bernstein’s "Fancy Free," a jazzy ballet score that encapsulates Bernstein’s lifelong advocacy for civil rights through its vibrant and celebratory melodies. Under the baton of guest conductor Tito Muñoz, this concert promises to be a profound and moving tribute, blending classical and contemporary works that resonate with the spirit of Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy.

Bernstein and Mahler

The Fresno Philharmonic is set to present an extraordinary evening of music, featuring the world premiere of a new work by California composers Hitomi Oba and Erika Oba. This composition draws inspiration from the life and writings of Fresno author and organic peach farmer David Mas Masumoto, culminating a two-year project titled Cultural Crossroads: Kisetsu Seasons in Japanese. The evening will also showcase the return of renowned pianist Barry Douglas, who will perform Rachmaninoff’s beloved Piano Concerto No. 2, a piece celebrated for its emotional depth and technical brilliance. The concert will conclude with Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 9, known for its light-hearted and spirited character. Under the baton of conductor Rei Hotoda, this event promises a rich tapestry of musical storytelling and virtuosic performances.

Shostakovich and Rachmaninoff

Experience a captivating evening with the Fresno Philharmonic as they present "Brahms and Tabla," a unique concert that showcases the fusion of global musical traditions. The event features the debut of Indian tabla master Sandeep Das, who will perform Dinuk Wijeratne’s vibrant and energetic Tabla Concerto. This piece is a brilliant blend of rhythmic complexity and melodic beauty, highlighting the versatility of the tabla in a symphonic setting. The program also includes Debussy’s beloved Clair de lune, a piece renowned for its delicate and evocative piano lines, now orchestrated to bring out its full atmospheric potential. The concert culminates with Brahms’ Symphony No. 1, a dramatic and powerful work that stands as a testament to the composer’s mastery of symphonic form. Under the baton of conductor Rei Hotoda, the Fresno Philharmonic will deliver a performance that spans a wide range of emotions and styles, demonstrating the orchestra’s dynamic range and artistic prowess. This event promises to be a memorable exploration of both classical and contemporary music, offering a rich tapestry of sounds and cultural influences.

Fresno Philharmonic Orchestra

23 - 24 Nov, 2024

Orchestral Virtuosity

Dec 6, 2024

Home for the Holidays

Dec 6, 2024

Home for the Holidays

18 - 19 Jan, 2025

Bernstein and Mahler

15 - 16 Feb, 2025

Shostakovich and Rachmaninoff

28 - 29 Sep, 2024

Babayan Plays Rachmaninoff

1 - 2 Jun, 2024

Boléro Blowout

Fresno Philharmonic Orchestra