Pasadena Symphony and POPS

==Pasadena Symphony & Pops== The Pasadena Symphony & Pops is a distinguished musical institution based in Pasadena, California, that has been providing high-quality orchestral concerts and community engagement programs since its founding in 1928. It is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, renowned for its commitment to musical excellence and educational outreach. ===Mission and Vision=== The mission of the Pasadena Symphony & Pops is to deliver musical performances of the highest caliber, including orchestral concerts and recitals featuring world-renowned artists. The organization is dedicated to offering the widest possible access to youth education programs and the performing arts through community engagement and digital innovation. Its vision emphasizes the belief that music has the power to enrich and transform both individuals and communities. The Pasadena Symphony Association acts as a custodian of classical, popular, and new music, consistently striving for excellence and inclusivity. ===History=== Founded by Conductor Reginald Bland, the Pasadena Symphony Association began as the Pasadena Civic Orchestra. The ensemble's initial performers were primarily volunteer musicians and students of Bland. With an initial annual operating budget of $3,500, generously funded by the City of Pasadena, the organization quickly garnered substantial local support, evolving into a nationally recognized, fully professional orchestra. In 2007, the Pasadena Symphony officially merged with the Pasadena POPS, creating a unified entity known as the Pasadena Symphony & POPS. Over its 90-year history, the Pasadena Symphony has evolved into one of Southern California's premier symphonic ensembles. Its musicians, many of whom have extensive credits in the film, television, recording, and orchestral industries, are among the most heard in the world. The orchestra performs in two of the United States' most extraordinary venues: the Ambassador Auditorium, often referred to as the "Carnegie Hall of the West," and the lush Los Angeles Arboretum & Botanic Garden. The organization is led by internationally recognized, Grammy-nominated conductor David Lockington, serving as the Music Director. Michael Feinstein, a multi-platinum-selling entertainer with two Emmy nominations and five Grammy Award nominations, is the Principal Pops Conductor, having succeeded Marvin Hamlisch. ===Education and Community Engagement=== A cornerstone of the Pasadena Symphony Association's commitment to the community is its robust education programs, which have been serving the youth of the region for over fifty years. The Pasadena Youth Symphony Orchestras (PYSO) consists of over 350 talented students from grades 4-12, representing more than 50 schools across Southern California. The PYSO Symphony not only tours bi-annually but also performs at local venues and has been featured on the popular television show "GLEE." ===Moving Forward=== In 2007, the Pasadena Symphony expanded its reach by incorporating the Pasadena POPS into its Association. This merger broadened its offerings to include both Classics and POPS series, providing year-round live symphonic classical concerts and POPS concerts. These performances take place at the historic Ambassador Auditorium in Pasadena and the summer venue at the Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden. The Pasadena Symphony & Pops continues to thrive as a beacon of musical artistry and education, fostering a love for music in the Pasadena community and beyond.