SANTA MONICA—The Santa Monica High School Symphony Orchestra had to cancel their European tour due to the Brussels terror attacks back in March. The orchestra decided to help support the victims of terror.
The students noted in a response, “Let’s create a benefit concert in Los Angeles, and raise money for the people affected by conflict and violence.” The benefit concert will be held at the Walt Disney Concert Hall at 7:30 p.m. on Sunday, June 12. The concert will benefit victims of conflict and violence worldwide. They will donate the funds to the International Committee of the Red Cross.
“I am proud of these determined students who are turning a very disappointing situation into a positive event that will raise awareness and funds for those affected by violence,” said Joni Swenson, Samohi Symphony Orchestra Director in a written response.
“The Walt Disney Concert Hall is the perfect venue for our musicians to perform what they have prepared. I invite everyone to join June 12th to experience a wonderful and heartfelt performance,” she added.
The students and Swenson were suppose to stop and visit Paris, Bruges, and Amsterdam. The orchestra was set to perform at Salle Gaveau, a historic concert hall. They were also expected to stop in Belgium on the way to Amsterdam where they planned to perform at the Royal Concertgebouw.
“They really have their hearts into this concert,” said Swenson. “They felt their lives had been affected by terrorism in the world, and they wanted to do what they could do help victims of terrorism and violence.”
The Santa Monica High School Symphony Orchestra will also be performing in the West Coast Youth Orchestra at 2:00 p.m. at the Walt Disney Concert Hall. Tickets can be purchased at: http://bit.ly/1WyShZ1.
