History of the la Mirada Symphony

La Mirada Symphony, established in 1961, is a community-based orchestra situated in La Mirada, California. Composed of a diverse ensemble of musicians, including professionals, music educators, and community members, the symphony offers classical music performances to local audiences. Its repertoire encompasses symphonies, concertos, overtures, and popular orchestral compositions. The symphony frequently features guest soloists, renowned instrumentalists, and vocalists, enhancing the quality and diversity of its performances.

The symphony hosts a series of concerts throughout the year, held at venues like the La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts. Notably, the symphony embraces an inclusive approach by providing free admission to these concerts, made possible through support from community sponsors and donations. This practice aims to ensure accessibility to orchestral music for all members of the community and foster a broader appreciation for the arts.

In addition to its concert series, the La Mirada Symphony actively engages in educational outreach initiatives. Collaborating with local schools, the symphony offers young musicians the opportunity to perform with the orchestra and participate in workshops and masterclasses led by experienced professionals. These programs nurture emerging talents and contribute to the development of the next generation of musicians.

La Mirada Symphony holds a significant position within the cultural landscape of La Mirada and its surrounding areas. Through its dedication to artistic excellence, the symphony enriches the community by providing captivating musical experiences and promoting the appreciation of orchestral music among a diverse audience.

1963: A Year of New Beginnings for the Symphony

In 1961, creating a Symphony Orchestra for the community was the dream of Blanche Nissim, a La Mirada resident and concert pianist. She and a determined group of community advocates and local musicians united to make her dream a reality. Their Mission was to provide free concerts for residents who appreciated the cultural value of beautiful music in their lives and an opportunity for local musicians to share their talents.

The La Mirada City Council approved the concept and unanimously voted to become a sponsor and to provide much needed funding – a policy which continues to this day. The orchestra performed for the early years in the multipurpose room at La Mirada High School and subsequently in the Crowell Concert Hall at Biola College. A series of conductors directed the concerts until1968, when Leon Guide accepted the baton and graced the podium at Crowell Hall and later at the new and beautiful La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts. Leon Guide completed a total of 33 dedicated years until his passing in 2001. David Stenske, the orchestra’s Concertmaster for many Seasons was then named Music Director/Conductor.

In 2002 the Orchestra Association experienced a “new beginning”, formed an Executive Board of enthusiastic and supportive members, and added a new element. Following Leon Guide’s recommendation, and in an effort to see that the music genre will be kept alive for our local students, an expanded series of Youth Enrichment Programs was created to provide enhancement, education, classroom performances, and special daytime youth concerts.

Alan Mautner, our current conductor, was brought to the organization in 2014. His qualifications, enhanced by his involvement with community, university and youth orchestras, make him an ideal choice to take the La Mirada Symphony to an exciting new level.

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MISSION STATEMENT

The La Mirada Symphony maintains its policy of offering free quality concerts to the residents of Southern California.

The La Mirada Symphony is a California 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Organization. Your donation today is tax deductible. Our Federal ID number is #94-3223735. Thank you for supporting the performing arts.

Our Mailing Address

La Mirada Symphony Association
P.O. Box 117
La Mirada, CA 90637-0117
Email: lamiradasymphony@aol.com

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