Aliso Niguel High School Orchestra: String Showcase
Featuring student musicians from Aliso Niguel High, Don Juan Avila Middle & Aliso Viejo Middle Schools
Tuesday, April 22, 2025 | 7 PM
Soka Performing Arts Center at Soka University of America
Aliso Niguel High School: String Showcase
ROSTER
Aliso Niguel High School
String Orchestra
Violin
Kenshin Alcaraz
Emma Auth
Diba Behbudi
Arianna Calilly
Rica Angelina Gan
Andre Huynh
Katti Li
Lisa Liang
Zeke Lucas
Rohit Madhusudhanan
Sudhanva Mannoni
Amir Moin
Rowan Mroczynski
AJ Petersen
Lana Pholkosol
Emmy Roy
Waylon Schwind
Jairah Torres
Viola
Jasmine Alavi
Namrataa Bhavani
Devika Anchana Karthik
Gabby Leung
Devesh
Swarnachandrabalaji Cello
Jonathan Kim
Alex Morales
Aidan Pitts
Matteo Renella
Kai Thomas
Gunnar Wade
Nathan Wood
Bass
Jaden Llanes
Peter Ma
Juan Torres
Brian Tran
Aliso Niguel High School Advanced Orchestra Violin
Katelyn Besmonte
Aiden Chan
Evan Gideon
Nishka Harish
Elliot Hong
Kyle Iwohara
Yena Kang
Ava Menhaji
Faris Radieddine
Jenna Radieddine
Jacob Schmidt
Ansh Sharma
Atrisa Taghizadeh
Madelynne Tetley
Michael Yap
Sarina Zafra
Viola
Lucy Contino
Rachel James Cello
Roy Bronola
Anika Chandran
Michael Che
Mariam Georgy
William Hur
Whitney Luu
Isabel Morales
Kaden Reed
Bass
Rama Ketabchi
Sophie Padilla
Aliso Niguel High School Chamber Orchestra
Violin
KariAnne Chien
Sonya Del Real
Liliana Flores
Shana Hu
Maya Jackson
Daphne Karr
John Kim
Olive Kim
Ananya Kota
Cameron Matloubi
Saoirse Murray
Emily Salisbury
Liam Scherer
Vikram Venkateswaran
Viola
Darian Alavi
Celina Huo
Zoe Lee
Cello
Rishikesh Bhushan
Ashley Chang
Evelyn Clasquin
Ayan Gursahani
Abigail Lee
Hannah Oh Bass
Jeremiah Clasen
Ryan Iwohara
Luke Kesoglou
Seth Martin
Aliso Niguel High School
String Buddies
Violin
Almila Baktir
Katelyn Besmonte
Liliana Flores
Nishka Harish
Olivia Hong
Shana Hu
Zeke Lucas
Saoirse Murray
Lana Pholkosol
Makena Reidy
Hunter Smith
Jackson Smith
Viola
Jacob Allen
Zoe Lee
Cello
Evan Farivar
Slate Johnson
Hannah Oh Bass
Luke Kesoglou
ROSTER
Aliso Niguel High School: String Showcase
PROGRAM
Aliso Niguel High School String Buddies
Sleepers Wake
J.S. Bach
Arranged by Soon Hee Newbold
El Toro
Don Brubaker
Don Juan Avila Middle School Advanced Orchestra
Symphony No. 25 in C Major
Haydn
Arranged by Dackow
Fantasia 2000
Arranged by Blake Neely
Don Juan Avila Middle School Advanced Orchestra +
Aliso Niguel High School Orchestra
Molly on the Shore
Irish Reel
Arranged by Sandra Dackow
Game of Thrones
Ramin Djawadi
Arranged by Larry Moore
Aliso Viejo Middle School Advanced Orchestra
Legend
David O’Fallon
Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring
J.S. Bach
Arranged by Elliot Del Borgo
Aliso Viejo Middle + Aliso Niguel High School Orchestra
Pioneer Sky
Doug Spata
And So It Goes
Billy Joel
Arranged by Larry Moore
- INTERMISSION -
Aliso Niguel High School String Orchestra
Fantasia On a Theme From Thailand
Richard Meyer
Lullaby
William Hofeldt
Furiant
Elliot A. Del Borgo
Aliso Niguel High School Chamber Orchestra + Advanced Orchestra
North Star to Freedom
Soon Hee Newbold
Hebrides Overture
Felix Mendelssohn
Arranged by Jason Librande
Peer Gynt Suite: The Death of Ase
Edvard Grieg
Forest Incantation
Alan Lee Silva
Aliso Niguel High School Orchestra Program
ALISO NIGUEL HIGH SCHOOL : STRINGSHOWCASE
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
The Aliso Niguel High School Orchestra program is a distinguished and dynamic ensemble committed to musical excellence, artistic expression, and community engagement. Under the dedicated leadership of Director Jonathan Chen, the program has flourished, providing students with exceptional opportunities to develop their musicianship, leadership, and collaborative skills. With over 90 students, the program features four ensembles—two string orchestras, one advanced orchestra, and a chamber orchestra—each designed to challenge and inspire young musicians at varying levels of proficiency.
Renowned for its high-caliber performances, the Aliso Niguel Orchestra has had the privilege of showcasing its talents in prestigious venues, including the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall and Soka University Performing Arts Center. These opportunities allow students to perform in professional settings, fostering confidence, artistry, and a deep appreciation for orchestral music. Beyond concerts, the orchestra actively participates in festivals, adjudicated performances, and community outreach events, further
strengthening its impact within and beyond the school.
A hallmark of the program is its strong sense of community, where students find a second family among their fellow musicians. The orchestra cultivates an environment that emphasizes camaraderie, discipline, and mutual respect, encouraging students to grow not only as musicians but also as individuals. Through mentorship, section leadership, and collaborative rehearsals, students develop essential life skills such as teamwork, perseverance, and professionalism.
This year, the orchestra is honored to participate in the 12th Annual Philharmonic Invitational High School Orchestra Festival at the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, a prestigious event that highlights the extraordinary talents of young musicians across Orange County. This festival serves as a testament to the program’s ongoing dedication to musical excellence and education.
The continued success of the Aliso Niguel High School Orchestra is made possible through the unwavering support of the Aliso Niguel High School Orchestra Boosters (ANHSOB). Established in the 2022-2023 school year, the Boosters play a crucial role in fundraising, organizing events,
and providing resources that enrich the student experience. Their commitment ensures that students have access to masterclasses, field trips, competitions, and collaborative performances, enhancing their artistic journey.
With a steadfast commitment to fostering a culture of excellence, inclusivity, and artistic integrity, the Aliso Niguel High School Orchestra continues to inspire the next generation of musicians. Through their shared passion for music, students create unforgettable experiences, form lasting friendships, and contribute to the vibrant performing arts landscape of their community.
ANHS ORCHESTRA BOOSTER: HARMONY IN ACTION
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 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
Aliso Niguel High School Orchestra: Solo & Ensemble Concert
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 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 for many years to come.
Sincerely,
Jonathan Chen
Aliso
Niguel High School Orchestra Director
Aliso Niguel High School
Orchestra Booster
Aliso Niguel High School: String
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 Mrs. Elena Rodriguez.
Their performances, ranging from classical symphonies to contemporary arrangements, mesmerize audiences with their depth and sophistication.
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.
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
With numerous awards and accolades to their name, the Aliso Viejo Middle School orchestra continues to set the standard for excellence in music education.
For more information about supporting the ANHS booster, please click here
Concessions
A wide variety of wine, beer, soft drinks and freshly prepared snacks will be available before the concert and during intermission in the lobby
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+)
Yoshitomo & Takemi Daido
STAGE BENEFACTOR ($1000+)
Anonymous
OC Chinese Cultural Club
John and Sue Prange
Terumi Saito
Jochen Schumacher
Alex & Sandy Scott
Scott A Shuping
Anson and Marilyn Wong
PLATINUM CLEF ($500+)
Anonymous
Jeffrey Hendrix
Edward D. Jones
Jane A. Lynch
GOLD CLEF ($200+)
Judy Kaufman
Lorraine Leiser
Naomi Uchiyama
SILVER CLEF ($100+)
Renée Bodie
Sam Chang
Masako Inage
Debrah Jiang
Chiharu Nagai
Paul Porto
Thomas Prigorac
Jonia Suri
Joseph Whittaker
BRONZE CLEF ($25+)
Raquel Bruno
Kenneth Hanawa
Ryosuke Iga
Jeannette Pease
Joyce M Wrice
Taro Yamanashi
* Deceased
List current as of 09/26/2024
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 Renée Bodie, General Manager at (949) 480-4821 to make us aware of any error or omission in the foregoing list.
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Our subscription and renewal program provides you with even more flexibility in our season packages*. With our enhanced program, you now have the power to curate your very own unique experience.
• 15% Discount for a 3 performance package
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*full details online at soka.edu/pac
OUR PARTNERS
• Blueport Jazz and Dr. Jim Merod
• Philharmonic Society of Orange County
• Pacific Symphony
• Parnassus Society
SOKA PAC MANAGEMENT TEAM
Renée Bodie General Manager & Artistic Director
John Morgan Box Office Manager
Antoinette Rossman House Manager/Assistant to the General Manager
Jaime Spataro Marketing & Communications Manager
Steve Baker Production Manager
Aadya Agrawal Stage Manager
Jarmil Maupin Internal Events Manager
Piano Tuners
Kathy Smith Lead Tuner
Ron Elliott
David Stoneman
David Vanderlip
Website soka.edu/pac
SOKA UNIVERSITY OF AMERICA BOARD
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
Stephen S. Dunham, JD | CHAIR
Vice President and General Counsel Emeritus, Pennsylvania State University | Baltimore, Maryland
Tariq Hasan, PhD | VICE CHAIR
Chief Executive Officer, SGI-USA | 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
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
Isabel Nuñez, PhD, MPhil, JD
Professor of Educational Studies, Dean of School of Education, Purdue University Fort Wayne | Fort Wayne, Indiana
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
Gregg S. Wolpert
Co-president, The Stahl Organization | New York, New York
Edward M. Feasel, PhD
President, Soka University of America (ex-officio member) | Aliso Viejo, California
SUA Leadership Council
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
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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
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Andrew Woolsey, EdD Dean of Enrollment Services
Martin Beck, MA
Executive Director of Strategic Marketing and Communications