"This is an evening to say we're vibrant and vital," announced Glenn Treibitz, new president of the Glendale Symphony Orchestra Assn., at a fundraising gala at Lexus of Glendale — turned into a miniature concert hall on Saturday.
Featured was a chamber ensemble concert conducted by Jeffrey Bernstein, the orchestra's associate conductor. Lawrence Kohl and flute soloists Sheridon Stokes and Salpy Kerkonian performed in selections from Bach and Mozart. Even the association's Interim Executive Director Arman Keyvanian put on his musician hat and played the harpsichord in Bach's Brandenburg Concerto No. 4.
But during a brief hiatus came the news more than 200 patrons and guests were waiting for. The evening's guest of honor, conductor-composer Loris Tjeknavorian, will become the principal conductor-music director of the orchestra. Tjeknavorian comes to Glendale after 11 years as music director of the Armenian Philharmonic in Armenia.
The pre- and post-concert party kept supporters sated with champagne, wine, sweets and savories. Association VIPs enjoying the celebration included Jack Kabateck, former association executive vice president, with wife Glady Kabateck. Current Executive Vice President Adel Luzuriaga and Recording Secretary Sheila Murray were also spotted among concert-goers. The Women's Committee of the association was well represented by Glendale residents, including President Jennifer Horine and Martha Feutz.
