CONCERT

Jon Nakamatsu
and the Jazz Age

October 2024
Past concert

California Theatre,
San Jose, CA

Concert Length
Approx. 1 hr 50 min. with intermission

Music Notes occur one hour prior to the concert in the auditorium.

Artists

  • Elinor Rufeizen, conductor
    Jon Nakamatsu, piano
    Symphony San Jose

Program

  • George Gershwin

    An American in Paris

  • Aaron Copland

    Piano Concerto

  • George Gershwin

    Rhapsody in Blue (100th Anniversary)

  • Maurice Ravel

    Boléro

About This Performance

The new season kicks off with a journey back to the Roaring 20s. Walk the red carpet, pop the champagne, and discover why classical music was at the center of the Jazz Age.

The centerpiece of this concert is George Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue – which celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2024. At the keys is none other than Jon Nakamatsu – San Jose’s favorite hometown pianist – who will also perform Aaron Copland’s jazzy, blues-inspired Piano Concerto.

The concert opens and closes with two of the most famous pieces in the orchestral repertoire: Gershwin’s An American in Paris and Maurice Ravel’s Boléro.

Pre-Concert Festivities

Pre-concert festivities occur one hour prior to the concert.

Transport yourself back to the Roaring Twenties at the majestic California Theatre!

To honor the era of Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue, Symphony San Jose is traveling back to the twenties, with activities and décor to highlight the glamour and excitement of this bygone era. Dress up in 1920s style and join us as we celebrate the Jazz Age together!

 

Prohibition Party

Looking to add some extra sparkle and whimsy to your evening? Join our Opening Night Prohibition Party!

Guests can enjoy cocktails at our secret symphony speakeasy bar, live jazz music, dinner with the movers and shakers of San Jose, the chance to bid on select and experiential auction prizes, and roaring twenties revelry!

The fun will continue after the concert with an exclusive dessert reception with our musicians and guest artists.

Learn more.