By almost any measurement, Jung-Ho Pak’s first season as the Artistic Director for the San Diego Chamber Orchestra was a stunning success.  Audiences were enthusiastic, the musicians talked about the joy of performing with Jung-Ho, and ticket sales and revenue were stronger than ever, with many sold-out performances.

Jung-Ho is dedicated to expanding the world of classical music into the community, sometimes in a nontraditional manner.  Last season, musicians and members of the audience mingled before and after concerts in an effort to bring them closer together, and new programs will be announced this season to expand upon that theme.  In addition, unique programs, some a “first” for San Diego, will be announced to “bring the world of classical music to every child.” 

However, it’s the music that really brings the audience members back, and the Orchestra’s 2007-08 season will feature the beautiful traditional classics as well as many “surprises,” world-renowned guest artists and over 30 of the most talented musicians in the country.

The Classics Series concerts are performed in three venues: St. Paul’s Cathedral, Downtown; Sherwood Auditorium, La Jolla; and Del Mar Country Club, Rancho Santa Fe.

The Classics Series concert, Mozart: The Soul of Genius, will open this season at St. Paul’s Cathedral on Friday, October 19, at 7:30 p.m.  The repertoire for this concert will offer a dramatic exploration of the young genius, Mozart, through his personal letters and the story of his life.  Andreas Haefliger, a world-renowned pianist, will join the Orchestra for Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 15.  Additional selections will be Mozart’s Symphony No. 40 and the Apollo et Hyacinthus Overture.

The same concert will be performed in La Jolla on Monday, October 22, at 7:30 p.m., and in Rancho Santa Fe on Tuesday, October 23, at 7:30 p.m.