Folsom Lake Symphony Reviews
My husband and I attended the Folsom Lake Symphony concert last night and it literally put tears in my eyes – how the symphony has grown, developed over thirteen years! I have attended and will continue to attend the rest of my life – I LOVE Maestro Peter Jaffe, his conducting and the musicians who play and soloists he chooses. That said, I never want to change my symphony seats! Cindy Kaye, Rhythmic Heat, October 2016
I attended Sunday’s matinee performance of “Hollywood Hits” as an invited guest of a patron. The selection of scores was diverse and kept the audience’s attention at all times. The Conductor, Peter Jaffe, is very entertaining and appeared in costume according to the theme of the music being played. The symphony performed selections familiar to all generations and are incredibly talented — performing flawlessly! I experienced a great event and will be back to enjoy more shows in the future. Lastly, the Harris Center is a wonderful facility! Consider me a new fan! Bobby Contreras, Sacramento, Hollywood Hits, June 2016
What a once-in-a-lifetime experience! Since the age of two or so, and I am now 70, I have loved the music but never the words as sung in churches. Last night my chest heaved and the tears gushed as your wonderful voices filled the symphony hall. Did your group arrange to record it? I would love to have a copy. Doris Winter, Finlandia Performance, April 2016.
If you think you need to go to San Francisco or some other big city to hear high quality symphony orchestra music, guess again. The Folsom Lake Symphony puts on quality concerts in the intimate and acoustically perfect Harris Center in Folsom. February’s concert was Bravo!! It featured highly accomplished solo violinist Livia Sohn who performed exquisitely with passion and intensity while the orchestra accompanied her magnificently. Not to be outdone, following an informative explanation of the piece by Maestro Peter Jaffe, the orchestra alone performed Tchaikovsky’s 5th Symphony. Each individual section of the orchestra was featured in this splendid interlaced musical journey. For the classical music buff, Folsom Lake Symphony provides a great entertainment value. Ron Smith, Granite Bay, February 2016
I have attended the Folsom Lake Symphony since its first season, and I think we are so blessed to have this amount of talent in our community. We can drive five minutes, park for free and hear this wonderful music. We had a terrific first conductor, and now Peter Jaffe just exudes energy right into the audience. Jane Hindmarsh, Folsom, February 2016
My family and I went to see the Nutcracker at the Harris Center. The symphony was outstanding! My son is only 5, so he loved the show. I pointed out to my 9 year old daughter how the show was presented with real music. She loved that. Of course, my wife and I loved it as well. I wanted you to know how much we enjoyed the music. Jim Ortega, Folsom, December 2015
After attending the symphony’s Bianco Natale performance and listening to Pasquale Esposito sing, I now have a new appreciation for Christmas carols sung with an Italian accent, especially “White Christmas” which is always been a Bing Crosby favorite of mine. Pasquale’s voice is simply enchanting. Kathleen Leavitt, Madroña Vineyards, December 2015
We love coming to the Folsom Lake Symphony concerts. Conductor Peter Jaffe creates a fun, engaging experience for the audience and the selections for each concert are a wonderful blend of well-loved classics and newer pieces we all know and love. Allison and Glen, Sacramento, December 2015
We have always supported the performing arts wherever we lived, and attending the Symphony is one of the joys in our life. When we moved from the Bay Area to El Dorado Hills we were delighted to find the fantastic Folsom Lake Symphony that now performs at the Harris Center. We appreciate the professional quality and enthusiasm of the performing members of the Symphony, and we love the variety of music performed. Conductor Peter Jaffe has added another level of enthusiasm to the performances, building on the work of founding conductor Michael Newman. Thanks Folsom Lake Symphony for adding so much joy to our lives. Bob & Gail Stroh, El Dorado Hills, December 2015
Alon Goldstein demonstrated sensitivity and artistry at the piano. He is a remarkable musician who really enjoys the music he’s playing! As far as the Folsom Lake Symphony is concerned, I give it an A+. Ken Payne, Folsom, Masterpieces Concert, October 2015
A violin player helped me play “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star” on a violin. That was so fun. I think I want to play the violin when we start music in school. I really liked the concert and want to go again. Lily, age 7, Family Concert, October 2015
Fred and I want to express our appreciation to you for the lovely “enchanted evening” we and our guests enjoyed at your beautiful home on Saturday night. The great attention to detail and the quality of generous hospitality exhibited, made us all feel so special. We were honoured to be part of this celebration of talent, beauty and giving. How did you do it? You even hung the moon! It was an evening never to be forgotten. We join you, your co-hosts and the committee in looking forward to the Symphony’s successful year after such a truly elegant “kick off.” Karen and Fred Bookey, 2015 Benefit Gala
I moved here from Salt Lake City where I supported the symphony and ballet. I believe that the Folsom Lake Symphony with the ease of parking and more intimate setting plus first rate musicians and a “teaching” conductor is just perfect for my daughter and me. February’s “Tales of Love” was delightful. Linda Wang and “The Butterfly Lovers Concerto” was mermerizing. Looking forward to more exciting music and talented solo artists. Doris Walters, Folsom, Tales of Love Concert, February 2015
Just a quick note to say thank you for hosting such a memorable evening. The combination of the setting in the garden, your stunning home, the spectacular music, incredible dinner — all in support of enrichment for school children was simply astounding. It was one of the most perfect and extraordinary evenings I’ve ever experienced. My hope is that you exceeded your fundraising goal! Rachel Rosenthal, 2015 Benefit Gala
What a night. The weather was perfect, the moon glorious, the food delicious, the Symphony and Pasquale a special treat and then your beautiful home and exquisite garden all added up to a night to remember. I think that one only gets so many special occasions in a lifetime and “An Evening under the Stars” was one of those special occasions. Thank you for all of your time and effort in making the Gala a success. Judi and Roger Reynolds, 2015 Benefit Gala
In twenty years I’ve not been to a more spectacular black tie event. My guest and I had a magical time and I can think of nothing you could have done to make it more perfect. Well done. Camille Wojtasiak, Sacramento, 2015 Benefit Gala
What a wonderful sound the orchestra has! The whole program was just wonderful. I loved the special details that were in the program, especially Jesse and the runner. What a concept to have the runner in “Chariots of Fire.” Had she been stage before? What a good voice and demeanor Jesse had. It was one of the best shows we’ve ever seen. Pam McCoy, Mountain Ranch
The ‘Tis the Season holiday concert with Peter Jaffe was a visceral, bristling performance. The music was spirited, not often heard but very enjoyable. The blend too between choir and orchestra was perfect! A very nice showcase of amazing talent. Lou Peele, Folsom
A very enjoyable concert. It’s always rewarding to hear familiar music live, especially true of Respighi. Chuck Kooshian, Los Alamos, New Mexico
Saturday, October 25, 2014 was a night to remember at the Folsom Lake Symphony’s performance of ‘Majesty.’ Peter Jaffe, our new conductor, is totally involved in the music and is fun to watch as he conducts this talented group of musicians. Pines of Rome by Respighi, our favorite piece, was exciting, especially with the horn sections on both sides of the balcony above us. WOW!!! Can’t wait for the next performance. Bill and Carol Estee, El Dorado Hills
Saturday night’s performance of Pines of Rome was captivating and truly a world class performance by Maestro Peter Jaffe and the Folsom Lake Symphony. The evening was filled with unique sounds that transported you back into Roman life complete with the sounds of swallows above and children playing; Gregorian chants and nightingales singing. The versatility of the Folsom Lake Symphony is amazing and a treasure for the entire region. Magnificent performance! Marie Mitchell, El Dorado Hills
This evening’s performance was stellar! Pun intended. Welcome to new conductor, Peter Jaffe. He is animated, charming and engages the audience. World class music in Folsom. Jessica Braverman Birch, Folsom
Having had subscriptions to the Folsom Lake Symphony almost since its inception, one of the things I’ve appreciated about Maestro Neumann is his selection of performance pieces. I was thrilled to see that my favorite Beethoven Symphony No. 7 was performed at the “Celebration of Spring” concert. The performance was strong and compelling, with the orchestra playing together in their usual tight unison, bringing out the dynamic emotional range of the piece. Jacob Jorgensen, Folsom
My wife and I attended the “Music of Many Lands” event the evening of December 7th. We found this to be an exciting and entirely enjoyable event. The concert was among the best we have attended as associaties and season ticket holders. Even though Maestro Neumann was not present, the symphony was a grand success showing the training and effort on his part has paid dividends. Walt & Barbara Speelman, El Dorado Hills
We loved the concert on December 8, 2013. In particular, we enjoyed the substitute conductor, Dr. Robert Halseth as his comments were very good. Ray Tewell & Vernita Bernadett, Lincoln
Last night’s “Of Joy and Fate” concert was nothing short of magical. What a wonderful and varied program of music, performed by the symphony with characteristic mastery. … Our season ticket purchase is one of our annual essentials. The Folsom Lake Symphony is … a treasure that brings the world’s most beautiful music to our city and performs it with excellence. We are incredibly fortunate to have you. Len & Barbara Merkel, Folsom
Thank you Folsom Lake Symphony for a fabulous night (Dec. 15). It was wonderful that you invited the FHS Chamber Choir to sing with you. We were so impressed with the Folsom Lake Symphony and will be coming to see you all the time. You’ve made us fans for life!” Michele Zumwalt, Folsom
“Made in America” was AMAZING! We are planning to purchase at least three sets of tickets for next season as the music looks terrific. Mia Terry-Samuels, Gold River
I LOVED the patriotic theme (of “Made in America”) and my husband particularly enjoyed Dawn Harms’ appearance. … For next season, I’ve got my eye on the “Music of Many Lands” performance, and I’m a hard-core Star Trek fan so we’ll be at the last performance (“Out of This World”) as well. Cristina Mendonsa
Special thanks to Maestro for his amazing choice of music! At the first glance, you would think that all program pieces are so-called mainstream; however, with the abundance of syncopated rhythms and the zesty percussion, the program can make equally happy salsa music lovers like myself. Tess Testeza, Rancho Cordova
Stunning, unforgettable performance of Schubert’s Unfinished Symphony! A soulful and intellectual rendition. And, as a bonus, the symphony educates its audience by providing info about the composers and their works in the program book. Tess Testeza, Rancho Cordova
Congratulations to the Folsom Lake Symphony for your years of beautiful music. We’ve enjoyed our subscriptions and eagerly await all the concerts. Jan and Bill Vecchio, Roseville
I don’t know when I have enjoyed myself so much as when I attend the Folsom Lake Symphony performances. Truly great! Adrienne Flynn, El Dorado Hills
The Folsom Lake Symphony concert this afternoon (Dec 16) was wonderful! What a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon. Melinda Malaspino, Folsom
I’ve personally heard the Boston Pops Orchestra under Arthur Fiedler, and the Folsom Lake Symphony is every bit as good. Jim Kirstein, President of Folsom Parkway
With each year and each performance, Maestro Michael Neumann and the Folsom Lake Symphony Orchestra continue to amaze. The new venue at Three Stages is beautiful and has taken the great sound and performances of the FSO to the next level. Deane and Bernadette Lyon, El Dorado Hills
The Folsom Lake Symphony is phenomenal. The quality of the performances rivals what you could find anywhere else in the world. Mayor Kerri Howell, Folsom (Guest Conductor, June 2, 2012)
Beethoven’s Ninth was absolutely breath taking. I was amazed at the quality of the orchestra and of Maestro Neumann’s thoughtful interpretation of such a magnificent piece. Well worth the three-and-a-half hour round trip. The Folsom Lake Region is fortunate to have such a wonderful symphony. Bettina Uno, Walnut Creek
Your “Glorious Beethoven” concert was magnificent! We have lived in the Folsom area 15 years and regret having only just discovered the Folsom Lake Symphony. To be able to enjoy such an outstanding conductor leading such accomplished musicians in such an intimate setting is … magnificent. We have spent this season being awed by the performances, and we look forward to enjoying many more seasons. Danielle & Chris Smith, El Dorado Hills
After attending Beethoven’s 9th Symphony 12 or so times, your “Glorious Beethoven” was the best we’ve ever heard or seen. Monte Williams and Mary Ann Margherita
I am a huge John Williams fan, and I have seen many performances of the “Star Wars Suite.” The Folsom Lake Symphony gave the most pure performance I’ve ever heard, second only to the London Symphony Orchestra, which played for the film. The Folsom Lake Symphony did an amazing job – it sounded exactly like I expect it to sound. Steve Beach, Roseville
Since its founding seven years ago, the Folsom Lake Symphony has secured its place in the community as a wonderful asset to the region. I have thoroughly enjoyed the concerts I have attended. Councilman Andy Morin, Folsom
My first symphony was the Valentine’s Day concert. I was amazed at the quality of the performance. I haven’t missed a concert since. For a small town like we are to have such an outstanding orchestra is incredible. Councilman Ernie Sheldon, Folsom
Wonderful performance (Made in America). Looking forward to next season. Kathy Leslie Bramall