Ovation’s “The Score” – Summer 2026 Issue

Chair’s Column from Judy D’Ambrosio

Greetings,

I have had the privilege of being Chair for Ovation this year and it has been such a rewarding and fulfilling experience.

• Some of the Ovation volunteer accomplishments this year include:
• Picnic in the Garden
• Instrument Petting Zoos
• Rehearsal Receptions for Classical and POPS! Concerts
• Two Family Concerts
• Two Youth Concerts
• Member Orientation
• Opera by the Bay
• Weekly Symphony Office support
• Assistance with mailings, proof reading etc.
• Crescendo support
• Patron Engagement at the Classical Concerts
• Three editions of our newly formatted newsletter, The Score

I want to personally thank Bobbie Cusato for her dedication, impact, and selfless service to the Symphony and Ovation. She has been actively involved with Ovation and its predecessor the Long Beach Symphony Guild serving in various roles over the years. She is stepping back from the day-to-day activities of Volunteer Coordination but rest assured that she will continue to actively support Ovation and the Symphony. No one can replace Bobbie, but Delfina and Glenn Skalland who have been working with Bobbie this year will be stepping in as Volunteer Co-Chairs.

Our board will be changing effective July 1, 2026. A slate of new officers will be distributed to members shortly. I want to personally invite you to Ovation’s Annual meeting and afternoon Tea on Wednesday, June 24, 2026 starting at 4pm. Please look for our meeting invitation in your email and plan on joining us for a thoughtful discussion of this year’s achievements and more about volunteer activities planned or underway while enjoying delicious refreshments including scones and tea.

Ovation like other organizations is going through a period of change to better serve the Symphony, our mission and members. To continue meeting our goal, we need to grow and expand our membership. If you have an interest in serving on the Council, we would welcome your involvement and input. We need you. Your membership is important. In the next few months, you will be hearing more about our membership drive.

Thank you so much for your volunteer work this year. Even if you are not in the spotlight, you are the backbone of our success. Please know that we could not accomplish all that we do without your hard work. We are forever thankful for the time you have given.

You Make a Difference!

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2. Ovation Occasion: Opera by the Bay

by Kris Ajello

On behalf of the Ovation Occasion Committee, I would like to send out a very sincere thank you to all the Ovation members who came out in support of this year’s Opera by the Bay. Held at the reception room of Keesal, Young & Logan on Golden Shore, attendees were able to socialize while taking in the beautiful waterfront views and enjoying drinks and appetizers before the main event.

Dennis Doubin, Director of the opera program at Bob Cole Conservatory of Music at Cal State Long Beach, was our emcee. He introduced the eight student opera singers and the accompanying pianist, highlighted the singers’ voice types and explained each scene being performed. The performances from the Marriage of Figaro and Don Giovanni are part of the opera program’s multi year retrospective “Cherubino’s Rise and Fall Part 1”. Performing in such close proximity to the audience really provided a wonderful opportunity for us to experience the full vocal range and dramatic expression of the singers. It was a very special event bringing together Ovation members, Symphony staff and the talented students of our local CSULB…truly a great occasion!

The Long Beach Symphony Crescendo fundraising gala on May 3^rd delivered an evening of elegance, community spirit and remarkable generosity. Held at the Westin Hotel, the event brought arts supporters together for a night of celebration with purpose.

Guests enjoyed a lively mix of activities including a champagne welcome, gourmet cuisine, musical moments featuring Symphony musicians, and a spirited live auction featuring standout items such as a private yacht excursion to Catalina, a chef-prepared dinner for ten, a weekend getaway in Napa Valley, and a VIP package to the Symphony’s 2026-27 season. The silent auction added even more excitement with artwork, jewelry, and cultural experiences donated by community partners. By the end of the night, Crescendo raised an impressive $250k+, surpassing its goal! These funds will directly support the Symphony’s music education programs, including youth concerts, elementary ensemble performances, and the Instrument Petting Zoos, ensuring that thousands of local students continue to have access to high-quality arts learning.

Crescendo 2026 proved once again that Long Beach rallies behind its Symphony – celebrating music, investing in young people, and strengthening the cultural heartbeat of the city. As always, Ovation volunteers played an essential role in making this event possible. Their dedication and hard work behind the scenes ensured a seamless and memorable evening. To all those who lent your support – Thank You!!!

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