The September 25 opening night of the San Francisco Symphony’s 113th season was a lively event filled with excitement. With a rare balmy evening inviting guests to the 113th Season of The San Francisco Symphony, Davies Symphony Hall was a jeweled delight.
Guests began the evening in the Wattis Room with a cocktail reception featuring themed drinks, champagne, and a spirits tasting from Gold Bar Whiskey, based on Treasure Island where gold coins were handed out. The atmosphere buzzed with conversation as attendees mingled before the concert.
The performance that evening was a captivating showcase of talent and artistry, led by Music Director Esa-Pekka Salonen. The orchestra delivered a powerful rendition of selections from Prokofiev’s “Romeo and Juliet”, immersing the audience in the emotional depth and intricate beauty of the score.
The highlight of the night was the dynamic dueling-pianos performance by Lang Lang and Gina Alice, who brought a playful energy to Saint-Saëns’ “The Carnival of the Animals”.
Their chemistry on stage and mastery of their instruments created a delightful atmosphere, engaging the audience with both humor and virtuosity. Each piece resonated with the attendees, making the performance a memorable celebration of music that perfectly set the tone for the Symphony’s new season.
The night continued with a dinner catered by McCalls, hosted on the stage of the Zellerbach Rehearsal Hall. Symphony Board Chair Priscilla “Prisca” Geeslin thanked CEO Matthew Spivey for his leadership and praised Salonen for his artistic direction.
The crowd included notable guests such as Sako Fisher with Gap Creative Director Zac Posen, Jack Calhoun and Trent Norris, Diane B. Wilsey, Lisa Grotts and John Grotts, and Carl and Yurie Pascarella.
This gala not only marked the start of the Symphony’s season but also supported its education and community programs. Proceeds from the event will help ensure that music remains accessible to future generations.
The evening had a festive feel, with guests dressed in a variety of stylish outfits. Gala cochairs Navid Armstrong and Jeremy Gallaher, along with Ann Paras overseeing the dinner, contributed to the overall success of the night.
As the event concluded, guests left with memories of a joyful evening that celebrated music and community. The San Francisco Symphony’s Opening Gala was a fitting start to the season, emphasizing the importance of the arts and connection among music lovers.