The Desert Symphony, under the direction of Music Director Gary Berkson, celebrated its 28th anniversary with a gala and concert starring LeAnn Rimes.
The evening’s program also included a well-deserved presentation to honor Ruta Lee, star of stage and screen for her dedication and philanthropy to the performing arts. Lee accepted her award with poignant and humorous remarks that warmed up the crowd for the very special anniversary performance.
The Desert Symphony opened the concert with a homage to female singers including Billy Holliday, Dinah Washington, Judy Garland, and others.
Rimes, who has sold more than 37 million albums and won two Grammy Awards, performed some of her award winning hits including “Blue”, “ Nothing Better to Do”, Spitfire”, “Borrowed”, “Mother”, “Outrageous Love”, “What I Cannot Change”, “How to Kiss a Boy”, and “Summertime” from Porgy and Bess.
The Desert Symphony, founded in 1989, features the best chamber musicians, virtuoso soloists, principal players and recording artists who have been hand picked from Southern California’s major orchestras. The Desert Symphony also provides free youth concerts.
The Desert Symphony
72925 Fred Waring Dr, Ste. 101, Palm Desert, CA 92260
760-773-5988
www.thedesertsymphony.org
Photography by Marc Glassman
