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East County News ServiceFeb. 26, 2026 (Poway) -- Valentine's Day is in the rear-view mirror but the Poway Symphony Orchestra is going to keep love alive, sweeping audiences into the heart of the Romantic era in March.
The orchestra's "Mendelssohn Classics" will be performed in a concert that starts at 4 p.m., Sunday, March 22, at the Poway Center for the Performing Arts.
Poway Symphony Orchestra, a 65-member ensemble, will perform under the baton of Conductor and Music Director John LoPiccolo.
Ensemble leadership said that the afternoon will showcase two of Felix Mendelssohn’s most enduring masterworks, headlined by internationally acclaimed guest violinist YuEun Gemma Kim.
According to the group, the concert opens with Mendelssohn’s Symphony No. 5, famously known as the “Reformation.”
Composed to commemorate the 300th anniversary of the Augsburg Confession, the work is a sonic journey from somber reflection to triumphant resolve. Audiences will hear a grand finale that weaves in Martin Luther’s iconic hymn “A Mighty Fortress is Our God.”
Complementing the Mendelssohn-heavy program is Beethoven’s Overture to Fidelio. As the prelude to Beethoven’s only opera -- a story of a woman’s courageous rescue of her husband from political imprisonment -- the overture serves as a powerful symbol of courage, freedom, liberty and justice.
The centerpiece of the event is Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto in E Minor, a cornerstone of the violin repertoire. Guest soloist Kim will bring her signature "vibrant artistry" to a piece known for its soaring melodies and innovative structure.
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Kim, an award-winning South Korean violinist and graduate of the USC Thornton School of Music as well as Seoul National University, is celebrated for her technical brilliance and her ability to connect with audiences, a skill that has earned her millions of views on social media and honors such as the Jeffrey Thomas Award.
Kim lives in Los Angeles, She was born in South Korea, started playing the violin at age 7, and moved to the United States in 2013.
“Mendelssohn’s music combines elegance with incredible emotional intensity,” LoPiccolo said. “YuEun Gemma Kim brings exactly the kind of musical insight and virtuosity that makes this piece shine. She has a rare ability to connect deeply with the music while dazzling the audience.”
The Poway Symphony Orchestra, a semi-professional ensemble of dedicated volunteers and professional musicians, has been a cultural pillar of North County since 2004.
The Poway Center for the Performing Arts is locaeted at 15498 Espola Road in Poway. For tickets, visit powaycenter.com or call (858) 748-0505.
Discounts are available for seniors, students and children. Free parking is available.
You can stay updated on the 2025-26 season and enjoy behind-the-scenes content by following the Poway Symphony Orchestra online here, on its Facebook page here , on Instagram here and on YouTube here.
You can also follow the guest soloist Kim on Instagram here, to see clips of her international performances and rehearsals.
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