Pre-Concert Talks
Before every classical series concert, patrons are invited to attend a free pre-concert talk, hosted by local music experts such as Professor Don Adkins and Keifer Taylor. Our experts explain the unique attributes of the compositions, the composers, and the historical context in which the music emerged. These talks help further your understanding of the music before listening to the live performance, and are central to the Symphony's mission of providing lifelong education opportunities.
Pre-concert talks start an hour before each concert (6:30 pm at the Civic Auditorium and 1:00 pm at the Mello Center), and are free for all ticket holders.
Dr. Don Adkins believes that music is one of the core expressions of our humanity. Don holds a DMA in orchestral conducting, a MM in composition and a BS in music education.
He teaches music classes at Cabrillo College, conducts the Cabrillo College Orchestra, and often provides musical direction for musicals in the Santa Cruz area.
Kiefer Taylor is a native son of Santa Cruz, having gone through Santa Cruz City Schools and listening to Santa Cruz Symphony in his youth. Primarily a self-taught musician, Kiefer obtained his degree in Piano Performance at UC Santa Cruz and later a Masters in Musicology at San Jose State University. Kiefer has rejoined the Santa Cruz music scene as a music educator and performer, and speaks of his deep honor to play piano in Santa Cruz Symphony concerts. He is also an active community music educator,
Kiefer is excited to use his connections to the community as a music educator to bring more students into the Symphony experience, and to bring more Symphony experiences into local classrooms.