Welcome!

I am often asked how a fairly new orchestra—the California Philharmonic is only 11 years old—has grown so rapidly. How is it that we play to over 50,000 people each year? How is it that we have series in four venues—our fall/winter series, Cal Phil at the Ambassador, our two summer series, Cal Phil at Walt Disney Concert Hall and Cal Phil Festival on the Green (held at the Los Angeles County Arboretum), as well as our Cal Phil Music, Martinis and the Maestro chamber music series (held in the Romanesque Room of the Green Hotel)? And especially how has the Cal Phil done this at a time when many orchestras are struggling merely to maintain their audience?

First, credit must go to Maestro Victor Vener and his vision for bringing great music to all people... people who love classical music and people who have never before listened to classical music. With Cal Phil's oustanding musicians, Maestro Vener builds bridges between familiar music—music we hear in the movies, musical theater, and even from pop groups—and the great classical works. Suddenly the mystery... and the apprehension... is gone, and the music, however it may be classified, is enjoyed just for itself.

Also, Cal Phil takes its music to the people. Rather than being satisfied with the large numbers we have been drawing for Cal Phil Fesitval on the Green, we have opened new venues and are reaching new audiences.

Of course, when we consider our success, it is the support of our sponsors, subscribers, donors and ticket buyers that make it all happen. Without your loyalty, none of this would be possible.

On behalf of Maestro Vener, our board, staff and musicians, I offer our heart-felt appreciation to all who support the Cal Phil.

Cordially,

John C. Whaley, Immediate Past Chair

CalPhil Foundation Board of Directors

Victor Vener, DMA Executive Chairman
Suzanne Ridley, Secretary
Linda C. Lowry, Treasurer
John C. Whaley, Immediate Past Chair
Robert W. Miller, Chairman Emeritus
André C. Vener, President Emeritus

Directors

Janet Chao
Robert L. Cody, EdD
George Fasching
Lynn Caffrey Gabriel, OD
James F. Hundshamer
Kevin Lutz
Marci Norkin
Carole Silva, EdD
Jeff B. Swensson
Grace G. Thompson
Donald E. Torres
Sabine Vener
Raymond Wang
Z. Joseph Wanski, MD
James A. Wendoll
Denise Zeilstra
S. Robert Zeilstra