Press Release: Modesto Symphony Orchestra Presents Picnic at the Pops: The Music of Queen
MODESTO, CA – The Modesto Symphony Orchestra proudly presents Picnic at the Pops! Windborne’s The Music of Queen this September 6, 2025 at 7:30 pm on the beautiful GALLO grounds. Picnic at the Pops! is a family-friendly outdoor concert that attracts thousands of music lovers from Modesto and the neighboring communities for an evening of music, dancing, and fun beneath the stars.
MODESTO SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
Contact:
Caroline Nickel
(209) 523-4156
cnickel@modestosymphony.org
For Immediate Release: July 24, 2025
(Pictured from left to right Picnic at the Pops; Brody Dolyniuk, guest artist; Ryan Murray, conductor)
Modesto Symphony Orchestra Presents Picnic at the Pops: The Music of Queen
MODESTO, CA – The Modesto Symphony Orchestra proudly presents Picnic at the Pops! Windborne’s The Music of Queen this September 6, 2025 at 7:30 pm on the beautiful GALLO grounds. Picnic at the Pops! is a family-friendly outdoor concert that attracts thousands of music lovers from Modesto and the neighboring communities for an evening of music, dancing, and fun beneath the stars.
This year’s Picnic at the Pops is a symphonic tribute to the Music of Queen! The program will showcase the exceptional talents of the Modesto Symphony Orchestra led by Principal Pops Conductor, Ryan Murray, and the extraordinary vocals of Brody Dolyniuk, performing some of Queen’s greatest hits including Under Pressure, Killer Queen, Crazy Little Thing Called Love, Somebody to Love, Bohemian Rhapsody, and many more.
“Picnic at the Pops is more than just a concert, it’s a chance for friends and families to come together, relax, and enjoy an evening with a live orchestra under the stars,” says Caroline Nickel, President and CEO of the Modesto Symphony Orchestra. “This year, we’re excited to honor the iconic music of Queen, with a program that will have everyone singing and dancing all night long. Picnic at the Pops is one of our favorite days of the year and we can’t wait to share it with you all!”
Attendees are encouraged to bring a blanket, pack a picnic, and enjoy all that the event has to offer. Outside alcohol is prohibited; wine generously donated by GALLO and an assortment of beverages are available for purchase, with all proceeds benefiting the MSO. Those not looking to pack their own picnic may pre-order meals from Greens on Tenth, or purchase food on-site from The Sinaloense Food Truck and Yogurt Mill’s Froyo Truck. Full details on food offerings will be available on our website at ModestoSymphony.org/picnic.
Tickets for Picnic at the Pops! are on sale now, online, in-person, and over the phone through the Gallo Center Ticket Office. General Lawn tickets start at $45 for adults and $12 for youth under the age of 17. Reserved Lawn tickets start at $75 for adults and $20 for youth. Groups of 10 or more can receive a 20% discount on General Lawn Tickets.
Picnic at the Pops! is a true community concert, created for the community by the community. The MSO is seeking volunteers to join our Patron Experience Team and help make Picnic at the Pops a success. Volunteer duties include the setup and breakdown of the venue space, selling beverage tickets during the concert, and more. Visit ModestoSymphony.org/volunteer for more information and to sign up today.
MODESTO SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA: Picnic at the pops! Windborne’s the music of queen
Saturday, September 6, 2025
Grounds Open at 5:00 pm
Concert Starts at 7:30 pm
Ryan Murray, conductor
Brody Dolyniuk, guest artist
GALLO grounds: 600 Yosemite Boulevard, Modesto
TICKETS:
General Lawn Seating Starting at: Adults $45 / Youth $12
Reserved Lawn Seating Starting at: Adults $75 / Youth $20
Groups of 10+ save 20% on General Lawn Adult tickets. Youth prices for ages 4 through 17, 3 & under are free. Tickets are available online through ModestoSymphony.org or through the Gallo Center for the Arts Ticket Office in-person at 1000 I Street, Modesto or call (209) 338-2100.
Guest Artist Bios
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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.
Picnic at the Pops! is generously sponsored by
Presenting Sponsors: GALLO, Porges Family Foundation
Headline Sponsor: Wille Electric Supply Company, Inc.
Concert Sponsor: Garton Tractor
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
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.
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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.
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.
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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.
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
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
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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.
Press Release: Modesto Symphony Orchestra's Picnic at the Pops Presents Dancing in the Street: Music of Motown
MODESTO, CA – The Modesto Symphony Orchestra proudly presents Picnic at the Pops! Dancing in the Street: Music of Motown this September 7, 2024 at 7:30 pm on the beautiful GALLO grounds. Picnic at the Pops! is a family-friendly outdoor concert that attracts thousands of music lovers from Modesto and the neighboring communities for an evening of music, dancing, and fun beneath the stars.
MODESTO SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
Contact:
Caroline Nickel
(209) 523-4156
cnickel@modestosymphony.org
For Immediate Release: July 26, 2024
(Pictured from left to right, top row: Ryan Murray, conductor; Chester Gregory, Crystal Monee Hall, Terron Brooks, guest artists; bottom row: Picnic at the Pops!)
Modesto Symphony Orchestra’s Picnic at the Pops Presents Dancing in the Street: Music of Motown
Featuring the music of Marvin Gaye, Michael Jackson, Diana Ross, and more!
MODESTO, CA – The Modesto Symphony Orchestra proudly presents Picnic at the Pops! Dancing in the Street: Music of Motown this September 7, 2024 at 7:30 pm on the beautiful GALLO grounds. Picnic at the Pops! is a family-friendly outdoor concert that attracts thousands of music lovers from Modesto and the neighboring communities for an evening of music, dancing, and fun beneath the stars.
This community event promises a full-evening symphonic tribute to the magic of Motown! The program will feature the exceptional talents of your Modesto Symphony Orchestra led by Principal Pops Conductor, Ryan Murray, and the mesmerizing vocals of Chester Gregory, Crystal Monee Hall, and Terron Brooks, performing smash-hits made famous by artists like Marvin Gaye, The Four Tops, Martha Reeves, Michael Jackson, Diana Ross, the Temptations, and Stevie Wonder.
“Picnic at the Pops! holds a special place in our hearts not only because it is the MSO’s largest event of the season and our biggest annual fundraiser, but it is truly a beloved community tradition,” says Caroline Nickel, President and CEO. “We’re very excited to be moving and grooving to the music of Motown, and optimistic that we’ll have one of the best Picnics yet—keeping our fingers crossed for the weather to be on our side!”
Picnic at the Pops! is a true community concert, created for the community by the community. The MSO is seeking volunteers to join our Patron Experience Team and help make Picnic a success. Volunteer duties include the setup and breakdown of the venue space, selling beverage tickets during the concert, and more. Visit ModestoSymphony.org/picnicvolunteer for more information and to sign up today.
Attendees are encouraged to bring a blanket, pack a picnic, and enjoy all that the space has to offer. Outside alcohol is prohibited; wine generously donated by GALLO and an assortment of beverages are available for purchase, with all proceeds benefiting the MSO. For those not looking to pack their own picnic, patrons may pre-order meals from Greens on Tenth, or purchase food on-site from The Sinaloense Food Truck and Yogurt Mill’s Froyo Truck. Full details on food offerings will be available at our website at ModestoSymphony.org/picnic.
Tickets for Picnic at the Pops! are on sale now, online, in-person, and over the phone. General Lawn tickets are $45 for Adults and $12 for Youth under the age of 17. Reserved Lawn tickets are $75 for Adults and $20 for youth. Groups of 10 or more can receive a 20% discount on General Lawn Tickets.
Tickets can be now be purchased by visiting the Gallo Center Ticket Office or calling 209.338.2100. Starting in August, tickets will also be on sale in-person at the Carnegie Arts Center in Turlock, and the MSO Office in Modesto. For more information and to buy tickets online visit ModestoSymphony.org/picnic.
MODESTO SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA: Picnic at the pops! Dancing in the street
Saturday, September 7, 2024
Grounds Open at 5:00 pm
Concert Starts at 7:30 pm
Ryan Murray, conductor
Chester Gregory, guest artist
Crystal Monee Hall, guest artist
Terron Brooks, guest artist
GALLO grounds: 600 Yosemite Boulevard, Modesto
TICKETS:
General Lawn Seating: Adults $45 / Youth $12
Reserved Lawn Seating: Adults $75 / Youth $20
Groups of 10+ save 20% on General Lawn Adult tickets. Youth prices for ages 4 through 17, 3 & under are free. Tickets are available online through ModestoSymphony.org or through the Gallo Center for the Arts Ticket Office in-person at 1000 I Street, Modesto or call (209) 338-2100.
Starting in August, tickets can also be purchased at Carnegie Arts Center, and the MSO Office. For full details on ticket offerings at the outlets, please visit our website at ModestoSymphony.org/Picnic.
Carnegie Arts Center: 250 N. Broadway Ave., Turlock
MSO Office: 911 Thirteenth Street, Modesto
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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.
Picnic at the Pops! is generously sponsored by
Presenting Sponsors: GALLO, Porges Family Foundation
Headline Sponsor: Wille Electric Supply Company, Inc.
Concert Sponsor: Garton Tractor