Music Director and Conductor Jorge Mester has put together a season of classical favorites and lesser known works that promises to be a rewarding listening experience at every concert . Spanning 11 countries and three centuries, the lists of works includes opening night blockbuster Carmina Burana, as well as Beethoven's "Emperor Concerto," Grofé "Grand Canyon Suite," and Brahms' "Variations on a Theme by Haydn." The three-concert Explorer Series will focus on some of the most enjoyable music of the 20th century.

Mester states the season is filled with wonderful pieces that might be unfamiliar to most audiences. "For example, the Berwald 'Symphony Singuliere:' It's a crazy piece. He's the Berlioz of Sweden," says Mester.

Maestro Mester says his selection formula begins with the orchestra. "I like to choose music that will be extremely challenging to the orchestra because this is what they are looking for." And for this seasoned group of top-notch studio musicians, The Pasadena Symphony is, in effect, the race track where where they can open up and play at full throttle.

Season 2000 is further distinguished by the return of guest artist like pianist Joaquin Achucarro and Joseph Kalichstein, and don't miss The Pasadena Symphony debut of young artists like violinist Philip Quint and coloratura soprano Hila Plittman.