The idea of true freedom is intoxicating. It’s joyful in its promise, treasured by those who possess it and sought by those who don’t. The freedom to create is an extraordinary gift that has been given to us by two men who share a passion for bringing music and entertainment to our community.
Longtime friends Barry Johansson, a performer, and Chris Beskar, CEO of Stavatti Aerospace, have used a period of time when we all felt a loss of freedom and certainly of connectedness to activate their dream to freshen entertainment options for audiences eager to enjoy great talent performing inspired programming.
Thus, the Freedom Philharmonic was formed.
For its debut, the orchestra will consist of 70+ musicians with Maestro Clyde Mitchell as its Music Director and Principal Conductor. Maestro Mitchell’s easy and approachable personality leaps across the footlights to engage audiences of all ages.
He is joined in leadership by Ruth Orellana-Wheeler as Associate Conductor. Director and Founder of the SoCAL Chorale, Marya Basaraba will present a 100-voice chorus that adds tremendous depth of auditory experience. There will be moving violin solos by two world-renowned violinists. Five exceptional vocalists will also be featured.
Freedom Philharmonic’s mission is to share the founders’ love of music through the production of top-quality symphonic programs. As the nonprofit organization grows, its leaders will develop strong bonds with diverse communities across Southern California. They seek to forge partnerships with other arts groups to further music education for children and their communities. The founders’ dream includes forming a youth orchestra. After all, children are free spirits!
