Popular conductor Wayland Whitney returns to perform with Grass Valley Symphony Orchestra at their free concert, Tuesday, April 28, 2026. Whitney directed the Music in the Mountains Youth Orchestra and OLLI Orchestra for several years.
He now teaches music full-time at Modesto Junior College, where he heads that department. Whitney played his viola during an OLLI concert a few years ago. Watch part of his performance here. He will play violin and viola at Tuesday’s concert.
Conducted by George Husaruk, a Grass Valley resident, the evening opens with Mozart’s Overture to The Magic Flute. Holst’s Japanese Suite, Elgar’s Serenade for Strings and Respighi’s Ancient Airs and Dances follow.
In the finale, the orchestra will present selections from John Williams’ iconic Star Wars score.
The Grass Valley Symphony Orchestra includes volunteer musicians who live and work in our community.
The free concert is Tuesday, April 28 at 7:00 pm in the multipurpose room at Sierra College, Nevada County Campus. Parking is free, follow the signs at the entrance.