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Published on 12/11/1995 All articles from this issue

Palo Alto Chamber Orchestra celebrates 30th anniversary with holiday concert

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The Palo Alto Chamber Orchestra (PACO) invites the public to a commemorative performance and post-concert festivities in honor of its 30th anniversary season 8 p.m. this Saturday at Spangenberg Theatre, 780 Arastradero Road, Palo Alto.

Exactly 30 years ago - December 21, 1965 - "PACO launched its Premier Season at the brand new Spangenberg Theatre of Palo Alto's Gunn High School campus. All performances of its regular season concerts continue to be held in Spangenberg Theatre to this day.

PACO, which includes 11 members from Los Altos and Los Altos Hills, has stood apart from the ever-increasing number of youth symphonies with its focus on educating young musicians in the art of chamber music. Its history has roots in the 1950s when founder and musical director William Whitson formed various chamber groups while still in his teens at Palo Alto High School. Thirty years later, he continues to foster relationships with the musicians and family members who have molded PACO into a successful organization.

PACO will perform the 30th anniversary celebration concert with highlights of the past 30 years featuring Corelli, Concerto Grosso Op. 6 No. 8, "Christmas" and Beethoven, "Triple" Concerto, Op. 56, with pianist Paul Hersh, violinist Catherine Ro and cellist Julian Hersh. Audience members are invited to join the musicians for a gala reception upon the end of the concert.

Tickets are $8. The Spangenberg box office opens at 7:30 p.m. with open seating. For more information, call 856-3848.