California Symphony Hosts Swanky Vegas-Style Gala Viva Las Symphony!

On April 5, the California Symphony welcomed its best friends and supporters to its annual fundraising gala at the Claremont Hotel in Berkeley. Hosted by Donato Cabrera, the San Francisco-based Symphony’s Artistic and Music Director, it was a night of music, glitz and vintage Vegas glamour. This year’s gala also honored Michael Weiner, a philanthropist and long-time California Symphony Board Member. Amidst the sequins and poker tables, the partygoers enjoyed a night to remember. 

After a lively cocktail hour, attendees were seated for a three-course dinner paired with wines from the Wine Family Group. Accompanying entertainment was courtesy of a live performance by two of the Symphony’s world-class musicians: Anne Ranzani, principal bassoon and Marc Shapiro, principal keyboard. Afterward, guests tried their luck at the casino tables and danced  to live music provided by Jason Marquez and the Sin City Trio, flown in specially from Vegas. Founded in 1986, California Symphony is distinguished by its innovative programming and commitment to inclusion.

The proceeds from the event will go to support the California Symphony’s musicians and its music education initiatives, including the Young American Composer-in-Residence program and the nationally recognized Sound Minds program for underserved local students.