Vener, Pralitz Bring Audience to Its Feet

Inclement weather that caused its music director to characterize the evening as the orchestra's "first baptism" didn't stop a supportive crowd from turning out for the California Philharmonic's inaugural concert last Friday evening at the recently-renovated Ambassador Auditorium.

It was a long-held dream of Maestro Victor Vener to direct a concert in the famed Pasadena venue. His first in the orchestra's Ambassador Series, titled "Movie Classics," was well-received by the audience members, many of whom offered standing ovations - especially after two shining performances of the immensely talented guest violinist, Hubert Pralitz.

Pralitz joined the Cal Phil on stage to perform Vivaldi's "Winter" and Waxman's complex "Carmen Fantasie," which Vener explained to the audience had originally been written for the late, great Jascha Heifetz.

The orchestra adeptly followed Vener's direction throughout the evening's program, which concluded with a stirring presentation of Richard Wagner's "The Ride of the Valkyries" from Die Walkure that had been featured in the movie "Apocalypse Now."

The Ambassador Series continues March 18 and 19 with "Passport to Paris" featuring mezzo soprano Suzanna Guzmån. That concert will be followed April 15 and 16 with "Invitation to the Dance," showcasing ballet dancers Brett Weidlich and Helena Pokorny. The series will wrap up May 6 and 7 with "Andrew Lloyd Webber Meets Puccini," featuring tenor Christopher Campbell, soprano Shana Blake Hill and baritone Roberto Perlas Gomez. To learn more about the California Philharmonic Orchestra, go online to www.calphil.org. To purchase tickets, call 626-300-8200. Discount prices are available for groups of 20 or more.