North Ranch Residents and Board Members of New West Symphony , John Shwope and wife Karen Dean Fritts, Attended Summerfest 2024
Kicking off it’s 30th Anniversary Season commencing in 2025
New West Symphony presented its summer outdoor event of the season, Summerfest 2024, on Sunday, June 23. The intimate concert and dinner included a rock concert with bassist/vocalist Jason Scheff of Chicago fame, , a performance from New West Symphony musicians, an award ceremony, and live auction.
The event was held at Moorpark’s Rancho De Las Palmas, owned by Debi and Mark Cassar, who donated the venue, and was the official kick-off for New West Symphony’s 30th Anniversary Season commencing in 2025.
All proceeds raised funded the organization’s artistic and educational programs.
The night began with the event themed, Denim and Diamonds, and cocktails were served along with entertainment provided by Devon Geyer, a country music band.
Later that night the rock legends Jason Scheff (long-time former lead
singer of the iconic band Chicago and bassist), Steve Porcaro (original TOTO member and prolific songwriter/keyboardist), Rick Cowling (bassist and vocalist for Kenny Loggins and Ambrosia), Phil X (lead guitarist for Bon Jovi) performed with vocals provided by Sherry Hursey (film, television, award-winning theater actress/vocalist).
Awards were presented to honorees, including Artistic and Music Director Michael Christie’s 50th birthday and long-time New West Symphony supporter Hope Rosenfeld’s 100th birthday. John Shwope and Karen Dean Fritts were also acknowledged for their outstanding Board of Director contributions throughout the years.
The Live Auction included a vacation from AmaWaterways Cruise, and a VIP
Dodger Dugout experience. World-renowned artist Ann Krasner whimsical sculptures were also on display.
Founded in 1995, the New West Symphony is a professional orchestra that draws its players from the rich talent pool of professional Los Angeles-area musicians. With artistic direction led by GRAMMY® winner Maestro Michael Christie, appointed as music director in December 2018, the Symphony is the resident company of the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza and performs at the Rancho Campana Performing Arts Center in Camarillo. It presents six Masterpiece Series concerts annually, performing major works from the symphonic repertoire with internationally-acclaimed artists as guest soloists. The Symphony also provides quality outreach and educational opportunities for the communities it serves through its annual Symphonic Adventures concert programs for youth, its traveling Music Van, and the
Laby Harmony Project, a year-round music and leadership program for underserved students.