Southwest Symphony

From the Board

Alyce Gardner

There is nothing quite like a live Symphony performance. From the first downbeat to the final note, far-reaching benefits linger beyond the concert hall. The complexity and richness of symphonic music engage the brain in unique ways, alleviating stress and augmenting creativity, memory, attention, and problem-solving skills. For example, the serene, soothing melodies of Beethoven’s 6th “Pastoral” Symphony can promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. Mozart’s Symphony No. 40 in G minor has been linked to cognitive enhancement and mood elevation.

In addition to the mental and physical benefits, symphonic music plays a vital role in enriching our community. It creates a sense of unity, inclusivity, cultural appreciation, and emotional connection. It provides a platform for local artists and supports economic growth. By offering educational programs and outreach initiatives, symphonic music also inspires the next generation, cultivating a love for the arts that will resonate for years to come. Ultimately, engaging with the Southwest Symphony is good medicine for body and soul, improving the quality of life for all.

Special thanks to Ashton & Associates for being our Maestro Sponsor for the 2024-2025 season.

Message from the Maestro

Lucas Darger

Every time I stand before these remarkable musicians, I am overwhelmed with gratitude—not just for the opportunity to do what I love, but for the privilege of doing it alongside such a dedicated and talented group of people. Music, as many of you know, has the unique power to move us, to connect us in ways that transcend words, and it’s this connection that makes each performance special.

What makes an orchestra so powerful is that it’s never the work of one individual. It takes all of us—musicians, staff, board members, donors, and you, our patrons—coming together with a shared love of music and a belief in its transformative impact. Through this collective effort, we create something that’s much bigger than any one of us, something that resonates deeply with everyone who experiences it. I truly believe that the music we share has a profound effect on all involved, and for that, I am deeply thankful.

As we look toward to the future, there is much to be excited about. We are hopeful that the renovation of our home will move swiftly, and in the meantime, we are immensely grateful to Desert Hills for hosting us and to all of you for your continued support during this transition.

This season promises to be one of our best yet, filled with performances that will inspire and uplift. I hope tonight’s music touches you in a meaningful way, and that you’ll continue to be part of this journey with us. Together, we’re creating moments that stay with us long after the last note fades—and I can’t wait to see what we’ll accomplish together.

Special thanks to Black Desert for being our Beethoven Musician Sponsor for the 2024-2025 season.

Tonight's Program

Halloween Spooktacular

Lucas Darger, Conductor

October 11 & 12 | 7:30pm
Desert Hills Auditorium

“Darkstar” and “Anthem” from Top Gun
H. Faltermeyer, L. Balfe, H. Zimmer

“Chevaliers de Sangreal” from The DaVinci Code
H. Zimmer

“Maestro” from The Holiday
H. Zimmer

“Lost but Won” from Rush
H. Zimmer

“Journey to the Line” from The Thin Red Line
H. Zimmer

Symphonic Suite from The Lion King
H. Zimmer

Intermission

“Madagascar” from Madagascar
H. Zimmer
Orch. N. Raine

Concert Suite from The Dark Knight
H. Zimmer
Arr. V. Lopez

“Theme” from The Crown
H. Zimmer
Orch. N. Raine

“Theme” from Man of Steel
H. Zimmer

“503” from Angels and Demons
H. Zimmer
Rachel France, Violin; Linda Ghidossi-DeLuca, Viola; Ka-Wai Yu, Cello

“The Curse of the Black Pearl Suite”
from Pirates of the Caribbean
K. Badelt, H. Zimmer

Orchestra Members

Meet our talented musicians.

Violin 1

Rachel France – Concertmaster
Debbie Hafen – Assistant Concertmaster
Kaylie Benites
Kezia Brown
Saya Hart
Julia Monson
Amber Morris
Natalie Nelson
Cassidee Torres
Kimberly Warburton
Lacey Young

Violin 2

Joie Whittaker – Principal
Lichelle Jones – Assistant Principal
Camille Allton
Lauren Jess
Kristen Kjar
Jim Laudie
Andrea Luikart
Cyndy Martin
Nona Miller
Melanie Nielsen
Bryn Tafoya
Tammy Tremea

Viola

Linda Ghidossi-DeLuca – Principal
Shay Seaich – Assistant Principal
Craig Beagley
Norman Fawson
Kevin Lasnier
April Olsen
Jillene Smith

Cello

Ka-Wai Yu – Principal
MaryAnn Oram – Assistant Principal
Ethan Allen
Calla Beykirch
Kamille Brooks
Joe Duwel
Ann Evans
Sandy Gustaveson
Leslie Jack
Peggy Lambert
Debra Vradenburg