

Aliso Niguel High School Orchestra: String Showcase
Featuring student musicians from Aliso Niguel High, Don Juan Avila Middle & Aliso Viejo Middle Schools
Friday, April 19, 2024 | 7 PM
Soka Performing Arts Center at Soka University of America
Aliso Niguel High School: String Showcase
ROSTER
Aliso Niguel High School String Orchestra
Maria G. Alvarez-Vidal
Tymur Burla
Michael Che
Sabrina Corral-Rzepka
Maddie Froeberg
Eden Gallegos
Rica Gan
Mariam Georgy
Kian Gutierrez
William Hur
Andre Huynh
Jayden Kang
Ipek Karaca
Yorgos Lepe
Jaden Llanes
Whitney Luu
Maria Mishriky
Aidan Pitts
Jacob Salas
Waylon Schwind
Joshua Shihad
Atrisa Taghizadeh
Diba Behbudi Tanurlui
Kai Thomas
Juan Torres
Jairah Torres
Gunnar Wade
Kenna Wynn
Sarina Zafra
Aliso Niguel High School Advanced Orchestra
Kimia Ahmadi
Jasmine Alavi
Rishikesh Bhushan
Mikalynn Briggs
Roy Bronola
Arianna Calilly
Nick Calkins
Jeremiah Clasen
Ezequiel Lucas Cortez
Sonya Del Real
Rotem Dvir
Liliana Flores
Evan Gideon
Radha Harrington
Ryan Iwohara
Rama Ketabchi
Shaya Khosravi
Ananya Kota
Lisa Liang
Hugo Maldonado
Aaryan Mangalekar
Cameron Matloubi
Ava Menhaji
Isabel Morales
Alex Morales
Rowan Mrocynski
Paulyn Navarra
Bianca Ong
Sophie Padilla
Lana Pholkosol
Kaden Reed
Emmy Roy
Francisco Rubio-Ruiz
Tarun Saripalli
Liam Scherer
Jacob Schmidt
Ansh Sharma
Eros Tabla
Michael Yap
Sammy Zeitawi
Aliso Niguel High School Chamber Orchestra
Ava Adibi
Darian Alavi
Kayla Borlasa
Connor Brandt
Anika Chandran
Ashley Chang
Naomi Cheng
KariAnne Chien
Evelyn Clasquin
Ayan Gursahani
Shana Hu
Maya Jackson
Daphne Karr
Luke Kesoglou
Olive Kim
John Kim
Tammi Lee
Cooper Lee
Abby Lee
RJ Llanes
Seth Martin
Saoirse Murray
Sunay Paramane
Saanika Parikh
Faris Radieddine
Emily Salisbury
Madelynne Tetley
Amanda Tran
Valerie Valentin
Vikram Venkateswaran
Elijah Winograd
Helen Yeong
Don Juan Avila Middle School Advanced Orchestra
Olivia Bang
Katelyn Marie Besmonte
Namrataa Bhavani
Aiden Chan
Carolyn Chang
Claire Emminger
Zachary Green
Alexa Hashemi
Elliot Hong
Kyle Iwohara
Sophia Kang
Yena Kang
Zoey Karr
Luke Katz
Sean Kim
Angela Kim
Bhairon Kumar
Katti Li
Mindy Li
Rohit Madhusudhanan
Sudhanva Mannoni
Evelyn Moore
Carlo Ocampo
Christiana Ocampo
Hannah Oh
Cielo Ong Ante
Arthur Petersen
Jenna Radieddine
Arna Rajpal
Aria Schmidt
Devesh
Swarnachandrabalaji
Brian Tran
ROSTER
Ethan Tran
Ivanie Varbanova
Rachel Yang
Mei Yu
Aliso Viejo Middle School Advanced Orchestra
Lyn Agra
Husam Ahmad
Lexa Arguello
Emma Auth
Kiaan Bansal
Chris Bronola
Juliana Brophy
Kainoa Brown
Lucy Contino
Analiese Gase
Campbell Hewko
Logan Holtzer
CenYao Huang
Rachel James
Jonathan Kim
Noelle Lee
Zoe Lee
Mysha Malik
Soren Mantegh
Kian Marquez
Lola Mera
Sui Miura
Tighearnan Neesen
Jackson
Alena Pacheco
Noah Park
Matteo Renella
Peyton Rose
Graham Scherer
Braxton Schwind
Kate Selvidge
Trudy Shen
Maverick Smith
Layla Szymansky
Nathan Wood
Addie Yazdani
Leor Zuna
Aliso Niguel High School: String Showcase
PROGRAM
Concerto No. 3 in D major, BWV 1054 (arr. Merle J. Isaac)
Johann Sebastian Bach
DJAMS Advanced Orchestra
Theme from Schindler’s List (arr. Robert Longfield)
John Williams (b. 1932)
DJAMS Advanced Orchestra
Katelyn Besmonte, Angela Kim, Hannah Oh, Mei Yu
Hungarian Dance No. 5 (arr. Merle J. Isaac)
Allegro
Johannes Brahms
DJAMS Advanced Orchestra & ANHS Orchestra
Conducted by Mr. Chen
The Incredibles (arr. John Moss)
Michael Giacchino
DJAMS Advanced Orchestra & ANHS Orchestra
Conducted by Ms. Rodriguez
Country Wedding from The Moldau (arr. Sandra Dackow)
Bedrich Smetana
AVMS Advanced Orchestra
Spartacus
Brian Balmages
AVMS Advanced Orchestra
Sadness and Sorrow (arr. Larry Moore)
Purojekuto Musashi
AVMS Advanced Orchestra & ANHS Orchestra
Conducted by Mr. Chen
Dragonfly
Doug Spata
AVMS Advanced Orchestra
Conducted by Mr. McGinnis -
Take 5 (arr. Bob Cerulli)
Paul Desmond
ANHS String Orchestra
Maharaja
Doug Spata
ANHS String Orchestra
Symphony No. 8, D.759 (arr. Robert D. McCashin)
Franz Schubert
ANHS Advanced Orchestra
Perseus
Soon Hee Newbold
ANHS Advanced Orchestra
Symphony No. 9 in E minor, “From the New World”, Op. 95 (arr. Brian Holmes)
I. Adagio – Allegro molto
Antonín Dvořák
ANHS Chamber Orchestra
The Fire Within
Brian Balmages
ANHS Chamber Orchestra
Aliso Niguel High School Orchestra Program
Welcome to the Aliso Niguel High School Orchestra Program!
Established with a commitment to excellence, community, and personal growth through music, our program stands as a beacon of musical education and camaraderie.
Our Mission: At the heart of our program lies a dedication to promoting the growth of individual students through the
transformative power of music. We believe in nurturing not only musicianship but also character, leadership, and collaboration.
Program Structure: Our orchestra program offers three distinct levels tailored to students’ skill, maturity, and leadership abilities: String Orchestra, Advanced Orchestra, and Chamber Orchestra. Through auditions, students are placed into the orchestra that best suits
their abilities, ensuring a conducive environment for their musical development.
Core Values: Community is at the forefront of our ethos. We foster a strong sense of belonging through open communication, collaboration, and teamwork. Every member is valued for their unique contribution, and student feedback guides our continuous improvement.
Beyond the Concert Hall: While our primary focus is musical excellence, we believe in holistic growth. Our program extends beyond rehearsals and performances to include enriching activities such as visits to renowned amusement parks like Disneyland, Knott’s Berry Farm, and Universal Studios. These outings not only offer memorable experiences but also strengthen bonds among our members.
Students and families also have the opportunity to bond with one another through orchestra socials throughout the year such as our Ice-skating night at the Aliso Ice Palace, and our picnic at the park
and field day during the first semester. We strive to provide opportunities for students to make lasting memories and really get to know each other.
Collaborative Outreach: We are deeply committed to fostering connections within our community. Through collaborations with Don Juan Avila Middle School and Aliso Viejo Middle School orchestras, we aim to inspire the next generation of musicians and forge lasting relationships across age groups.
Passion for Impact: Driven by a passion for music and a desire to make a difference in students’ lives, our dedicated instructors and mentors guide students on a journey of self-discovery and artistic expression. We believe in the power of music to transcend boundaries and shape futures.
Thank you for joining us on this musical adventure. Together, let us strive for excellence, embrace the joy of music, and create lasting memories that resonate far beyond the concert hall.
Aliso Niguel High School Orchestra Booster
The Aliso Niguel High School Orchestra Booster (ANHSOB) stands as a testament to the unwavering dedication and collaborative spirit of the parents affiliated with the Aliso Niguel High School Orchestra program. Founded in the 2022-2023 school
year by a passionate group of founding members despite welcoming a new director, our organization embodies the ethos of parental involvement and community support. At the core of our mission is the steadfast commitment to supporting our
students, the program as a whole, and our esteemed orchestra director, Jonathan Chen. Through tireless fundraising efforts, we ensure that our students have the opportunity to embark on enriching field trips that complement their musical journey. These experiences not only enhance their musical prowess but also foster camaraderie and lifelong memories. One of our recent triumphs was the successful completion of the Orchestra Camp field trip to Camp Cedar Lake in Big Bear. This immersive experience provided our students with the opportunity to refine their musical techniques amidst the picturesque backdrop of nature, all while bonding with their peers through exhilarating activities and snowy adventures. The Aliso Niguel High School Orchestra also performed with the Vancouver New Spirit Ensemble in the very first collaborative joint concert on March 22nd. The Aliso Niguel High School Orchestra was also invited to the 11th Annual Philharmonic Invitational High School Orchestra Festival on March 25, 2024, to perform at the Renee & Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall. Our students took home top scores from the adjudicators and were able to perform on stage at a world class concert hall.
The ANHSOB operates as a dynamic force, actively engaging in various activities to bolster the orchestra program. From organizing events to promoting the music program within our
community, our volunteers are integral to the program’s success. Whether it’s capturing precious moments through photography and videography during concerts or providing logistical support during field trips, our volunteers exemplify dedication and passion in every endeavor. Despite the challenges posed by the current landscape, the ANHSOB continues to thrive, meeting online once a month to strategize and support the orchestra in myriad ways. From orchestrating fundraising initiatives to chaperoning events, our volunteers remain steadfast in their commitment to nurturing the artistic growth of our students. We firmly believe that a parent booster organization is a cornerstone of strength for any music program, and our involvement is a testament to Aliso Niguel High School: String Showcase our unwavering support for our children’s musical education. We welcome all parents within the program to join us in any capacity or role, knowing that together, we can create a harmonious environment where our students can flourish and thrive. In closing, the ANHS Orchestra Booster is not just an organization; it’s a community united by a shared love for music and a dedication to empowering the next generation of musicians. Together, let us continue to orchestrate moments of harmony and inspiration for our students, ensuring that the melodies of Aliso Niguel High School resonate
Aliso Niguel High School: String Showcase
for many years to come.Passion for Impact: Driven by a passion for music and a desire to make a difference in students’ lives, our dedicated instructors and mentors guide students on a journey of selfdiscovery and artistic expression.
Don Juan Avila Middle School
The illustrious middle school orchestra of Don Juan Avila Middle School stands as a beacon of musical excellence in its community. Comprising gifted young musicians from diverse backgrounds, the ensemble harmonizes with precision and passion under the baton of Ms. Elena Rodriguez. Their performances, ranging from classical symphonies to contemporary arrangements,
We believe in the power of music to transcend boundaries and shape futures.
Sincerely,
Jonathan ChenAliso Niguel High School Orchestra Director
mesmerize audiences with their depth and sophistication. Infused with dedication and tireless practice, the orchestra consistently performs at the highest level. Don Juan Avila Middle School’s Advanced Orchestra not only nurtures individual talent but fosters a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect, making it a symbol of artistic achievement and unity within the school.
Aliso Viejo Middle School Advanced Orchestra
The student orchestra at Aliso Viejo Middle School brings together 7th and 8th graders from diverse backgrounds who captivate audiences with their dynamic musical renditions and vibrant live performances. Under the guidance of their conductor, Jeff McGinnis, these young musicians cultivate their skills with unwavering dedication and discipline. Their repertoire showcases the breadth of their collective
talent, enchanting listeners with compositions ranging from classical opuses to contemporary melodies. With numerous awards and accolades to their name, the Aliso Viejo Middle School orchestra continues to set the standard for excellence in music education.
Complementary water bottles will be provided by the Aliso Niguel High School Orchestra Booster Club. For more information about supporting the booster, please see here.
Our mission is to Engage, Educate, and Elevate the Human Spirit
Soka Performing Arts Center strives to elevate humanity through transcendent experiences. Come experience our exquisite acoustics. Come to expand your understanding and appreciation of music. Come to forge community and emotional connections through the shared experience of live music.


About Soka Performing Arts Center
Soka Performing Arts Center is located on the beautiful hilltop campus of Soka University of America in Aliso Viejo. Our facility includes the 1,032seat Concert Hall featuring world-class acoustics designed by master acoustician Yasuhisa Toyota, designer of the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles and Suntory Hall in Tokyo, among many others. We also have an intimate 350-seat Black Box Theatre that allows for multiple seating configurations including club seating with bistro tables.
More than 750 performances have taken place since the center’s dedication on May 27, 2011. The 2023-24 season marks our twelfth season presenting first-class programming in our world-class concert hall. We are continuing to expand our programming and outreach with the addition of a Children’s Concert Series, Blues Festival, and the only Great Pianists Series on the West Coast. From classical and jazz to world and contemporary music, the Soka Performing Arts Center has become a prized space for artists and audiences alike.
We are proud to be the home of the Pacific Symphony Chamber Orchestra. Our Sundays @ Soka Series with Pacific Symphony continues to be one of our most popular series year after year. Our presentations with other Orange County arts organizations have enabled us to reach further into our community to offer arts education and programming. Our partnership with the Philharmonic Society of Orange County includes our PSOC Series, which brings superlative artists to our stage. We also partner with PSOC for our Outreach Program, bringing over 7,000 school children to Soka Performing Arts Center to experience live performances with outstanding musicians.
With its world-class acoustics and first-class performances, Soka Performing Arts Center is quickly becoming one of the cultural jewels of Orange County.


OUR SUPPORTERS
DIRECTOR’S CIRCLE ($75,000+)
Dr. Kenneth & Sandra Tokita
Sam & Lyndie Ersan
CONCERTMASTER ($10,000+)
Ms. Emi Maeda
STAGE CHAMPION ($5000+)
Anonymous
STAGE BENEFACTOR ($1000+)
John and Sue Prange
Terumi Saito
Jochen Schumacher
Scott A Shuping
GOLD CLEF ($500+)
Jeffrey Hendrix
Jane A. Lynch
Alex & Sandy Scott
SILVER CLEF ($200+)
Lorraine Leiser
Anson and Marilyn Wong
BRONZE CLEF ($25+)
Raquel Bruno
Sammy Chang
Judy Kaufman
Jeannette Pease
Thomas Prigorac
Jonia Suri
Naomi Uchiyama
Joseph Whitaker
Joyce M Wrice
Taro Yamanashi
List current as of 02/14/2024
The Soka Performing Arts Center deeply appreciates the support of its sponsors and donors, and makes every effort to ensure accurate and appropriate recognition. Contact Renee Bodie, General Manager at (949) 480-4821 to make us aware of any error or omission in the foregoing list.
OUR PARTNERS
• Blueport Jazz
• Philharmonic Society of Orange County
• Pacific Symphony
• San Diego Symphony
• Parnassus Society
Soka PAC MANAGEMENT TEAM
Renée Bodie General Manager & Artistic Director
John Morgan Box Office Manager
Jarmil Maupin Technical Services Manager
Jenski Nguyen Stage Manager
Madeline Webb Lighting Technician
Hiroyuki Connor Miki Internal Events Manager
Jaime Spataro Marketing & Communications Manager
Joe Nicholls Marketing & Communications Assistant
Steve Baker Interim Production/House Manager




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SokaPerformingArtsCenter
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Website
Soka.edu/pac

SOKA UNIVERSITY OF AMERICA BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Soka Performing Arts Center resides on the beautiful campus of Soka University of America. We thank the SUA Board of Trustees and the SUA Leadership Council for all of their support.
SUA BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Steve Dunham, JD
Chair Vice President and General Counsel Emeritus, Pennsylvania State University | Baltimore, Maryland
Tariq Hasan, PhD
Vice Chair Chief Executive Officer, SGIUSA | New York, New York
Andrea Bartoli, PhD
President, Sant’Egidio Foundation for Peace and Dialogue | New York, New York
Matilda Buck
Benefactor | Los Angeles, California
Lawrence E. Carter, Sr, PhD, DD, DH, DRS
Dean, Professor of Religion, College
Archivist and Curator, Morehouse College | Atlanta, Georgia
Andy Firoved
CEO, HOTB Software | Irvine, California
Jason Goulah, PhD
Professor of Bilingual-Bicultural Education and Director, Institute for Daisaku Ikeda Studies in Education, Director of Programs in Bilingual-Bicultural Education, World Language Education, and Value-Creating Education for Global Citizenship, College of Education, DePaul University | Chicago, Illinois
Clothilde V. Hewlett, JD
Commissioner of Department of Financial Protection and Innovation, State of California | San Francisco, California
Lawrence A. Hickman, PhD
Director Emeritus, The Center for Dewey Studies and Professor Emeritus, Department of Philosophy, Southern Illinois University Carbondale | Carbondale, Illinois
Kris Knudsen, JD
Attorney | Wilsonville, Oregon
Karen Lewis, PhD
Sondheimer Professor of International Finance and Co-Director, Weiss Center for International Financial Research, Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania | Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Luis Nieves
Founder, Chairman Emeritus AUL Corp, Benefactor | Napa, California
Gene Marie O’Connell, RN, MS
Health Care Consultant, Associate Clinical Professor, University of California, San Francisco School of Nursing | Corte Madera, California
Adin Strauss
General Director, Soka Gakkai International-USA | Santa Monica, California
Yoshiki Tanigawa
Benefactor, Soka Gakkai | Tokyo, Japan
Edward M. Feasel, PhD
President, Soka University of America (ex-officio member) | Aliso Viejo, California
Edward M. Feasel, PhD President
Chief Academic Officer Professor of Economics
Archibald E. Asawa
Executive Vice President for Finance and Administration
Chief Financial Officer
Chief Investment Officer
Katherine M. King, PHR
Executive Vice President of University Community
Chief Human Resources Officer
Title IX and Section 504 Coordinator for Faculty, Staff and Others
Michael Weiner, PhD
Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs
Professor of East Asian History & International Studies
Kevin Moncrief, PhD
Vice President for Mission Integration
Bryan E. Penprase, PhD
Vice President for Sponsored Research and External Academic Relations
Professor of Physics and Astronomy
Tomoko Takahashi, PhD, EdD, LHD
Vice President for Institutional Research and Assessment
Dean of the Graduate School Professor of Linguistics and Education
David Welch, JD
Vice President University Counsel
M. Robert Hamersley, PhD
Dean of Faculty
Professor of Environmental Biogeochemistry
Hyon J. Moon, EdD
Dean of Students
Title IX and Section 504 Deputy Coordinator for Students
Michelle Hobby-Mears, MBA
Associate Dean of Students Director of Student Activities
Andrew Woolsey, EdD
Dean of Enrollment Services
Martin Beck, MA
Executive Director of Strategic Marketing and Communications