Feel the Music this season with the impassioned performances of great symphonic sounds, extraordinary soloists, and an overall irresistible season of fine music. The opening concert of the Santa Maria Philharmonic 2019-20 Season, will draw you into the magic and beauty of the Spanish guitar with soloist Jack Cimo. While the compelling rhythms of Mexican folk music will invigorate your spirit,  a French impression of Spanish life with gypsy flair will capture your imagination.
 
One of the most popular guitar works of all times, Rodrigo’s Concierto de Aranjuez will transport you to the gardens of Aranjuez with its exuberant spirit, and haunting melodies. Rodrigo described the concerto itself as capturing "the fragrance of magnolias, the singing of birds, and the gushing of fountains" in the gardens of Aranjuez. Copland’s charming and imaginative El Salon Mexico is inspired by the spirited dance tunes of Mexican night clubs. Written after he visited Mexico City in 1932, Copland blends folk melodies with fascinating rhythms, for a fresh and lively work.
Bizet’s colorful and captivating Carmen Suite No.2 reveals Bizet’s genius for creating atmosphere and painting with music, scenes of wild Spanish gypsy smuggler’s and the enchanting Carmen, luring the listener into her world of passion and intrigue.