
THE MAGIC OF MUSIC
AN INAUGURAL CONCERT AND DINNER UNDER THE STARS
Celebrating Maestro Nir Kabaretti's 20th Anniversary
with the Santa Barbara Symphony
Join us on Saturday, October 17, 2026 for an evening of exceptional elegance and artistic distinction at The Magic of Music, a radiant celebration honoring
Maestro Nir Kabaretti and the enduring excellence of the Santa Barbara Symphony.
This unforgettable evening, held at Music Academy of the West, will feature deeply moving performances by extraordinary musicians personally selected by Maestro Kabaretti for this singular occasion. The program will unfold as a journey through wonder, passion, and the transformative power of music—an experience designed to stir the soul, inspire the imagination, and celebrate artistic mastery at its highest level.
At the heart of the evening, we will pay tribute to Maestro Kabaretti, our esteemed Music & Artistic Director, as he marks his 20th Anniversary Season with The Symphony. Through his visionary leadership, boundless musicality, and generous spirit, Maestro Kabaretti has elevated the artistic stature of the orchestra and profoundly enriched the cultural life of Santa Barbara and beyond. This milestone offers a rare and meaningful opportunity to honor a leader whose artistry, kindness, and innovation have touched audiences, musicians, and students alike.
Following the performance, guests will be invited to participate in a brief live auction and paddle raise in support of the Santa Barbara Symphony, helping to sustain the artistic excellence, education programs, and community impact that define our mission. The evening will then continue with an elegant dinner under the stars on the grounds of the beautiful Miraflores Estate, offering a magical setting for connection, celebration, and shared appreciation of the arts.
We gather in gratitude and celebration, made possible through the dedication and leadership of our distinguished Event Chairs: Janet Garufis, Christie Glanville,
Meg Burnham, and Anne Towbes.
We are also deeply grateful to our Honorary Committee:
Todd & Allyson Aldrich
Carla Amussen
Ed & Sue Birch
Ann & Eric Capogrosso
Sarah & Roger Chrisman
Brooks & Kate Firestone
Gregg Hackethal & Penny Jenkins
Samuel & Alene Hedgpeth
Daniel & Mandy Hochman
Palmer & Susan Jackson
Karen & Jeff Kerns
Gillian Launie
Marilyn & Richard Mazess
Mercedes Millington
Ellen Lehrer Orlando & Thomas Orlando
Joan Rutkowski
Marilynn Sullivan
Dr. Bob Weinman
Merryl & Chuck Zegar
*List in formation
Event Schedule
Cocktails: 5:00 – 6:00 PM
Concert & Program: 6:00 – 7:30 PM
Dinner Under the Stars: 8:00 – 10:00 PM
Program Venue: Music Academy of the West | Hahn Hall
Dinner Venue: Music Academy of the West | Miraflores Motorcourt
Attire: Elegant—with a sprinkle of magic
