Press Room, 2024-25 Season Bianca Ancheta Press Room, 2024-25 Season Bianca Ancheta

Press Release: Modesto Symphony Orchestra Presents Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark™ Live in Concert

MODESTO, CA – The Modesto Symphony Orchestra (MSO) will present Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark™ Live in Concert featuring John Williams’ GRAMMY® Award-winning score performed live to the film. The concert will be led by Principal Pops Conductor Ryan Murray and will take place on May 30, 2025 at 7:30 pm and May 31, 2025 at 2 pm at the Gallo Center for the Arts.

MODESTO SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

Contact:
Caroline Nickel
(209) 523-4156
cnickel@modestosymphony.org 

For Immediate Release: April 24, 2025

(Pictured from left to right: Ryan Murray, conductor; Modesto Symphony Orchestra)


Modesto Symphony Orchestra Presents Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark Live in Concert

Concert features Composer John Williams’ Iconic Score Performed Live to Film

MODESTO, CA – The Modesto Symphony Orchestra (MSO) will present Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark™ Live in Concert featuring John Williams’ GRAMMY® Award-winning score performed live to the film. The concert will be led by Principal Pops Conductor Ryan Murray and will take place on May 30, 2025 at 7:30 pm and May 31, 2025 at 2 pm at the Gallo Center for the Arts.

“We are so excited to finish our season with Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark,” says Caroline Nickel, President & CEO of the MSOA. “There’s something magical about watching a film you love and hearing the music come to life by a tremendous orchestra of professional musicians! We love being able to share these iconic films with the community and see many familiar faces while introducing the orchestra to so many new fans as well.”

Williams has scored each Indy adventure, including the final installment of the iconic franchise, Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny.  He has received multiple Academy Awards® and more than 50 Oscar® nominations. Williams is the Academy’s most-nominated living person to date and the second-most nominated person in the history of the Oscars®.  He also received numerous British Academy Awards (BAFTA), GRAMMYs®, Golden Globes®, Emmys®, as well as several gold and platinum records.

Originally released in 1981 as a collaboration between George Lucas and Steven Spielberg, Raiders redefined the possibilities of adventure cinema and launched actor Harrison Ford to legendary status.

Indiana Jones is the classic hero in this adventure set in the 1930s which follows the quick-witted and determined archaeologist as he hunts for the Lost Ark of the Covenant. Often facing insurmountable odds, Indy always manages to succeed in the nick of time, joined by endearing companions and opposed by notorious villains.

With an impressive team of supporting actors including Karen Allen, John-Rhys Davies, Denholm Elliott, and Paul Freeman, combined with innovative special effects techniques by Industrial Light & Magic, Raiders has captured the spirits of movie-goers for generations and continues to inspire adventures yet to come.


Modesto Symphony Orchestra presents Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark in Concert

Friday, May 30, 2025 at 7:30 pm
Saturday, May 31, 2025 at 2 pm

Ryan Murray, conductor

Originally released in 1981 as a collaboration between George Lucas and Steven Spielberg, Raiders redefined the possibilities of adventure cinema. Indiana Jones is the classic hero for this adventure set in the 1930s, as the quick-witted and hardy archaeologist goes on the hunt for the Lost Ark of the Covenant. Often facing insurmountable odds, Indy always manages to succeed in the nick of time, joined by endearing companions and opposed by notorious villains. Embark on a grand adventure with Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark™ on the big screen while your Modesto Symphony Orchestra performs John Williams’ epic score live!

Presentation licensed by Disney Concerts. © All rights reserved.

Gallo Center for the Arts, Mary Stuart Rogers Theater
1000 I Street, Modesto

2024-25 Season Partner: Boyett Petroleum

Tickets:

Pricing: Tickets start at $23

Ticketing Information:

Tickets are available online through ModestoSymphony.org or through the Gallo Center for the Arts Ticket Office at (209) 338-2100.

Gallo Center Ticket Office Hours: Monday through Friday 10:00am-6:00pm / Saturday 12:00pm-6:00pm

Group Prices available: Groups of 10+ receive a 15% discount on tickets. Call (209) 338-5064 for more information.


###

The Modesto Symphony Orchestra is a Resident Company of The Gallo Center for the Arts.
The DoubleTree Hotel is the official hotel of the MSO.

Read More
Press Room, 2024-25 Season Bianca Ancheta Press Room, 2024-25 Season Bianca Ancheta

Press Release: Modesto Symphony Orchestra Performs Aretha: A Tribute March 14

MODESTO, CA – The Modesto Symphony Orchestra (MSO), led by Principal Pops Conductor Ryan Murray will perform Aretha: A Tribute on Friday, March 14th at 7:30 pm at the Gallo Center for the Arts in Modesto. Broadway star, Capathia Jenkins, will be joined by Ryan Shaw as they bring the best of the Queen of Soul plus hits by Stevie Wonder, Otis Redding, James Brown, and more!

MODESTO SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

Contact:
Caroline Nickel
(209) 523-4156
cnickel@modestosymphony.org 

For Immediate Release: January 23, 2025

(Pictured from left to right: Ryan Murray, conductor; Capathia Jenkins, guest artist; Ryan Shaw, guest artist


Modesto Symphony Performs Aretha: A Tribute March 14

  • March 14 – Modesto Symphony Orchestra performs the music of Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder, and more!

MODESTO, CA – The Modesto Symphony Orchestra (MSO), led by Principal Pops Conductor Ryan Murray will perform Aretha: A Tribute on Friday, March 14th at 7:30 pm at the Gallo Center for the Arts in Modesto. Broadway star, Capathia Jenkins, will be joined by Ryan Shaw as they bring the best of the Queen of Soul plus hits by Stevie Wonder, Otis Redding, James Brown, and more!

“We are so happy to be able to bring Capathia Jenkins back to Modesto! We know her performance with Ryan Shaw will bring everyone to their feet,” says Caroline Nickel, President & CEO of the MSOA. “Some may remember that this concert was almost performed for Picnic at the Pops in 2023, but was rained out. We were able to have the dress rehearsal the night before and we were honestly all blown away by the level of energy and artistry that Capathia brought to the stage!”

Capathia Jenkins has performed with numerous major orchestra including the Cleveland Orchestra, Houston Symphony, Pittsburgh Symphony, National Symphony, Cincinnati Pops, San Francisco Symphony, and many others. Ms. Jenkins is also known for her Broadway roles including, ‘Medda’ in Newsies and ‘Frieda May’ in Martin Sort-Fame Becomes Me. Her television credits include 30 Rock, Law & Order SVU, and she was also seen in The Wiz live performance on NBC.


Modesto Symphony Orchestra presents Aretha: A Tribute

Friday, March 14, 2025, at 7:30 pm

Ryan Murray, Principal Pops Conductor
Capathia Jenkins, guest artist
Ryan Shaw, guest artist

Gallo Center for the Arts, Mary Stuart Rogers Theater
1000 I Street, Modesto

Tickets

Pricing: Tickets start at $23

Ticketing Information

Tickets are available online through ModestoSymphony.org or through the Gallo Center for the Arts Ticket Office at (209) 338-2100.

Gallo Center Ticket Office Hours: Monday through Friday 10:00am-6:00pm / Saturday 12:00pm-6:00pm

Group Prices available: Groups of 10+ receive a 15% discount on tickets. Call (209) 338-5064 for more information.


###

The Modesto Symphony Orchestra is a Resident Company of The Gallo Center for the Arts.
The DoubleTree Hotel is the official hotel of the MSO.

Read More
Press Room, 2024-25 Season Bianca Ancheta Press Room, 2024-25 Season Bianca Ancheta

Press Release: Modesto Symphony Orchestra Presents Disney’s Fantasia in Concert Live to Film

MODESTO, CA – The Modesto Symphony Orchestra (MSO) presents highlights from two of Disney’s most extraordinary and groundbreaking animated features, Fantasia and its sequel Fantasia 2000 in concert live to film on February 7 and 8, 2025 at 7:30 pm at the Gallo Center for the Arts. Conducted by Principal Pops Conductor Ryan Murray, scenes from each of the two iconic films will be projected in high definition on a large screen above the orchestra as they perform classical selections including Beethoven’s “The Pastoral Symphony,” Debussy’s “Clair de Lune,” Ponchielli’s “Dance of the Hours,” Elgar’s “Pomp and Circumstance,” Respighi’s “Pines of Rome,” and Dukas’ “The Sorcerer’s Apprentice,” and more.

MODESTO SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

Contact:
Caroline Nickel
(209) 523-4156
cnickel@modestosymphony.org 

For Immediate Release: December 12, 2024

(Pictured from left to right: Ryan Murray, conductor; Modesto Symphony Orchestra)


Modesto Symphony Orchestra Presents Disney’s Fantasia in Concert Live to Film

Concert features selections from Fantasia (1940) and Fantasia 2000

  • February 7 & 8, 2025 – Modesto Symphony Orchestra presents Disney’s Fantasia in Concert Live to Film

  • February 8, 2025 – The Modesto Symphony Youth Orchestra to perform Mozart, Greig, and more in Spring Concert.

MODESTO, CA – The Modesto Symphony Orchestra (MSO) presents highlights from two of Disney’s most extraordinary and groundbreaking animated features, Fantasia and its sequel Fantasia 2000 in concert live to film on February 7 and 8, 2025 at 7:30 pm at the Gallo Center for the Arts. Conducted by Principal Pops Conductor Ryan Murray, scenes from each of the two iconic films will be projected in high definition on a large screen above the orchestra as they perform classical selections including Beethoven’s “The Pastoral Symphony,” Debussy’s “Clair de Lune,” Ponchielli’s “Dance of the Hours,” Elgar’s “Pomp and Circumstance,” Respighi’s “Pines of Rome,” and Dukas’ “The Sorcerer’s Apprentice,” and more.

“Disney’s Fantasia in Concert is going to be great fun to share with our audience in Modesto, it’s just an unbelievable show,” says Principal Pops Conductor, Ryan Murray. “It’s the greatest moments of classical music with the brilliance of Disney animation. There’s Beethoven’s Fifth & Sixth Symphonies, Stravinsky’s Firebird, Clair de Lune, Dance of the Hours, Carnival of the Animals, and of course The Sorcerer’s Apprentice! It’s challenging but exciting music for myself and the orchestra to take on.”

Released to great acclaim in 1940, Walt Disney’s Fantasia was his boldest experiment at the time and culminated in the creative visionary’s desire to blend animated imagery with classical music. The original film score was conducted by Leopold Stokowski with the Philadelphia Orchestra, recorded in stereophonic sound, which was still an experimental medium at the time. What had begun as a vehicle to develop Mickey Mouse’s career with an animation short titled “The Sorcerer’s Apprentice” went on to become a genuine cinema classic.

Walt’s dream in 1941 was to turn Fantasia into an ongoing event with new segments. This was finally realized in 1999 with Fantasia 2000, a spectacular follow-up spearheaded by Walt’s nephew, Roy E. Disney. The music from Fantasia 2000 was conducted by James Levine and performed by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.

Disney’s Fantasia in Concert Live to Film is presented by the Modesto Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Ryan Murray and will be performed at Gallo Center for the Arts on February 7 & 8, 2025. For tickets and further information visit www.modestosymphony.org or call the Gallo Center Ticket Office at 209-331-2100.

This weekend also includes the Modesto Symphony Youth Orchestra (MSYO) with their Spring Concert on February 8, 2025 at 2 pm at the Gallo Center for the Arts. The MSYO is comprised of two orchestras with students grades 5 through 12 from schools throughout the Central Valley and is led by MSYO Music Director Elisha Wells and a deeply engaged leadership team. This concert will feature works by Mozart, Greig, and more. Learn more about the MSYO at ModestoSymphony.org/about-msyo.


Modesto Symphony Orchestra presents Disney’s Fantasia in Concert Live to Film

Friday, February 7, 2025 at 7:30 pm
Saturday, February 8, 2025 at 7:30 pm

Ryan Murray, conductor

Join us for a thrilling performance of Disney's groundbreaking marriage of symphonic music and animation, Fantasia in Concert Live to Film. Magnificent repertoire from the original 1940 version and Fantasia 2000, including The Sorcerer's Apprentice, Beethoven's Fifth Symphony, and The Nutcracker Suite, will be performed by the Modesto Symphony Orchestra while Disney's stunning footage is shown on the big screen. Experience iconic moments and childhood favorites as you never have before!

Presentation licensed by Disney Concerts. © All rights reserved.

Gallo Center for the Arts, Mary Stuart Rogers Theater
1000 I Street, Modesto

2024-25 Season Partner: Boyett Petroleum

Tickets start at $23


Modesto Symphony Youth Orchestra presents Spring Concert

Saturday, February 8, 2025 at 2 pm

Modesto Symphony Youth Orchestra
Elisha Wells, MSYO Music Director & Symphony Orchestra Conductor
Don Grishaw, Concert Orchestra Conductor

Program to include works by Mozart, Greig, and more!

Gallo Center for the Arts, Mary Stuart Rogers Theater, 1000 I Street, Modesto

Tickets:

Pricing: Adult ticket pricing starts at $17; Youth ticket pricing starts at $8


Ticketing Information

Tickets are available online through ModestoSymphony.org or through the Gallo Center for the Arts Ticket Office at (209) 338-2100.

Group Prices available: Groups of 10+ receive a 15% discount on tickets. Call (209) 338-5064 for more information.

Gallo Center Ticket Office Hours: Monday through Friday 10:00am-6:00pm / Saturday 12:00pm-6:00pm


###

The Modesto Symphony Orchestra is a Resident Company of The Gallo Center for the Arts.
The DoubleTree Hotel is the official hotel of the MSO.

Read More
Press Room, 2023-24 Season Bianca Ancheta Press Room, 2023-24 Season Bianca Ancheta

Press Release: The Modesto Symphony Orchestra Performs Tim Burton’s “The Nightmare Before Christmas” Live In Concert To Film

MODESTO, CA – The Modesto Symphony Orchestra (MSO) will perform Tim Burton’s “The Nightmare Before Christmas” featuring a screening of Disney’s timeless holiday classic with Grammy®-winning composer Danny Elfman’s musical score performed live to the film. The concert will be led by Principal Pops Conductor Ryan Murray on Friday, November 3rd, 2023 at 7:30 pm and Saturday, November 4th, 2023 at 2:00 pm at the Gallo Center for the Arts in Modesto. Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas will be celebrating its 30th Anniversary this October.

MODESTO SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
Nicholas Hersh, Music Director

Contact:
Caroline Nickel
(209) 523-4156
cnickel@modestosymphony.org 

For Immediate Release: September 29, 2023


(click to download high-resolution image)

The Modesto Symphony Orchestra Performs Tim Burton’s “The Nightmare Before Christmas” Live In Concert To Film

Concert features Composer Danny Elfman’s Complete Score Performed Live to Picture Conducted by Ryan Murray Celebrating the 30th Anniversary of Film Release

MODESTO, CA – The Modesto Symphony Orchestra (MSO) will perform Tim Burton’s “The Nightmare Before Christmas” featuring a screening of Disney’s timeless holiday classic with Grammy®-winning composer Danny Elfman’s musical score performed live to the film. The concert will be led by Principal Pops Conductor Ryan Murray on Friday, November 3rd, 2023 at 7:30 pm and Saturday, November 4th, 2023 at 2:00 pm at the Gallo Center for the Arts in Modesto. Tim Burton’s “The Nightmare Before Christmas” will be celebrating its 30th Anniversary this October.

“We are so excited to bring Tim Burton’s “The Nightmare Before Christmas” back to the stage with our Modesto Symphony Orchestra,” says Caroline Nickel, President and CEO of the Modesto Symphony Orchestra. “We last performed this concert in two sold-out performances in 2017, and it was such a thrilling experience to see our audiences be swept up in the magic of Danny Elfman’s score. It was amazing to see the creativity and enthusiasm the audience showed by dressing up in costume for the event. We hope to recreate the experience this year and I look forward to seeing everyone dress to impress!”

First released in 1993, Tim Burton's “The Nightmare Before Christmas” was directed by Henry Selick (“James and the Giant Peach”) and based on a story and characters by Tim Burton. The film follows the earnest-but-misguided adventures of Jack Skellington, Halloween Town's beloved Pumpkin King, as he attempts to take over the Christmas holiday. Against the advice of Sally, a lonely rag doll who has feelings for him, Jack enlists three mischievous trick-or-treaters – Lock, Shock, and Barrel – to help him kidnap Santa Claus. The film is rated “PG.”  

Tim Burton’s “The Nightmare Before Christmas” Live in Concert is presented by the Modesto Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Ryan Murray and will be performed at the Gallo Center for the Arts on November 3, 2023 at 7:30 pm and November 4, 2023 at 2 pm.  For tickets and further information, visit www.modestosymphony.org.


Friday November 3, 2023 at 7:30 pm
Saturday, November 4, 2023 at 2 pm

Ryan Murray, conductor

Gallo Center for the Arts, Mary Stuart Rogers Theater
1000 I Street, Modesto

Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas in Concert Live to Film is presented by Disney Concerts. © Disney


Tickets:

Pricing: $ 20* / 36 / 52 / 72 / 94*
*Limited seats are available.

Tickets are available online through ModestoSymphony.org or through the Gallo Center for the Arts Ticket Office at (209) 338-2100.

Group Prices available: Groups of 10+ receive a 15% discount on tickets. Call (209) 338-5064 for more information.

Gallo Center Ticket Office Hours: Monday through Friday 10:00 am-6:00 pm / Saturday 12:00 pm-6:00 pm

Subscription packages are available now online, by phone, and at the Gallo Center Ticket Office. Pops Series Subscribers can save 15% off single tickets. Visit ModestoSymphony.org for full details.


2023-2024 SEASON PARTNER:
Boyett Petroleum

 
 

###

The Modesto Symphony Orchestra is a Resident Company of The Gallo Center for the Arts.

The DoubleTree Hotel is the official hotel of the MSO.

Read More