WMD BY LACM
From soloists to ensembles, audiences journey through curated stages, culminating in a powerful concert experience celebrating global musical traditions through live performance, cultural storytelling, and audience dialogue.
From soloists to ensembles, audiences journey through curated stages, culminating in a powerful concert experience celebrating global musical traditions through live performance, cultural storytelling, and audience dialogue.
Inspired by the World Expo of 1889, when Claude Debussy first encountered the mesmerizing sounds of Indonesian Gamelan music reshaping his compositional sound moving forward. World Music Day pays tribute to the appreciation of cross-cultural musical exchange as interpreted by LA-based musicians.
Inspired by the World Expo of 1889, when Claude Debussy first encountered the mesmerizing sounds of Indonesian Gamelan music reshaping his compositional sound moving forward. World Music Day pays tribute to the appreciation of cross-cultural musical exchange as interpreted by LA-based musicians.
Each featured performance is followed by an interactive discussion, where artists share their personal connection to their instrument, the cultural or historical significance of the piece they are performing, and what it means to be a classical musician rooted in Los Angeles’ dynamic artistic landscape.
Each featured performance is followed by an interactive discussion, where artists share their personal connection to their instrument, the cultural or historical significance of the piece they are performing, and what it means to be a classical musician rooted in Los Angeles’ dynamic artistic landscape.
Through the voices and talents of LA based classical musicians — shaped by historic disciplinary performance training and inspired by their own cultural roots as well as global musical traditions — audiences are invited to embark on a journey of sound, story, and shared connection.
The event furthers LACM’s mission to cultivate educational, sustainable concert ventures and expand meaningful performance opportunities for professional concertizing musicians.
Through the voices and talents of LA based classical musicians — shaped by historic disciplinary performance training and inspired by their own cultural roots as well as global musical traditions — audiences are invited to embark on a journey of sound, story, and shared connection.
The event furthers LACM’s mission to cultivate educational, sustainable concert ventures and expand meaningful performance opportunities for professional concertizing musicians.
RSPV AND experience with us
Immersive
listening
Experiences
by
LACM
WINEMUSIC Concert Series
WineMusic is Los Angeles Classical Music Inc.’s flagship performance initiative, created to transform the classical concert experience while building long-term sustainability for our mission.
Held in unique venues across Los Angeles, each event features performances by world-class musicians alongside wine tastings that reflect the emotional and cultural essence of the repertoire to create an immersive listening experience like no other.
LACM
performance initiative
Blending the elegance of chamber music with curated wine pairings, WineMusic is more than a concert — it is a multi-sensory concert experience that pairs curated live music with artisan wines.
Held in unique venues across Los Angeles, each event features performances by world-class musicians alongside wine tastings that reflect the emotional and cultural essence of the repertoire to create an immersive listening experience like no other.
100+
100+
classical music fans
classical music fans
4
4
Outstanding live performance sets
Outstanding live performance sets
Panel discussions
Panel discussions
interactive performer & audience dialog
interactive performer & audience dialog
Post perfromance networking
Post perfromance networking
DANCING
DANCING
a good time
a good time
LIVE DJ
LIVE DJ
Complimentary wine pours and refreshments
top cool things to expect
top cool things to expect
Panel discussions
interactive performer & audience dialog
Complimentary wine pours and refreshments
Post perfromance networking
DANCING
4
Outstanding live performance sets
100+
classical music fans
LACM CONCERT SERIES: IMMERSIVE LISTENING EXPERIENCE
Goal
Vision
Audience
Value
We aim to scale immersive concert formats such as WineMusic and World Music Day to reframe classical performance for modern audiences
Redefine classical concerts as inclusive, sensory-rich, and culturally resonant experiences that are woven into the fabric of Los Angeles lifestyle and culture
Culturally curious individuals aged 18–50 who seek elevated experiences, meaningful community engagement, and music as a tool for connection and exploration
Audiences gain access to thoughtfully curated events that merge music, storytelling, and environment — offering a compelling alternative to traditional concert formats that inspire deeper engagement and connection
A NIGHT OF CULTURALLY INSPIRED CLASSICAL PERFORMANCES
A NIGHT OF CULTURALLY INSPIRED CLASSICAL PERFORMANCES
At the heart of this event is a carefully curated performance program, showcasing four culturally rich and stylistically diverse musical works by LA-based classical artists. These performances reflect the global voices, identities, and heritages that make up Los Angeles’s unique musical landscape.
It is this spirit of cultural exchange and artistic innovation that resonates at the heart of this featured selection performance. Debussy’s masterpiece serves not only as the musical keynote of the evening but also as an emblem of LACM’s mission—to celebrate artistic excellence while embracing the global inspirations that continue to shape the evolving voice of classical music today.
These performances are more than entertainment—they are invitations to reflect on how cultural expression, identity, and tradition intersect with the classical form. Each set will be introduced briefly to provide context and create a meaningful listening experience, and then followed by panel discussion and interactive dialogue with the audience, allowing to deepen their connection to the music and the artists behind it.
The evening’s featured program includes:
The evening’s featured program includes:
The evening’s featured program includes:
Sacred Armenian cello solos performed by outstanding cellist Vardan Gasparyan, drawing from liturgical chants and folk melodies passed down through generations. This performance offers a deeply spiritual and meditative experience, connecting the audience to Armenia’s rich musical traditions through the expressive voice of the cello.
Sacred Armenian cello solos performed by outstanding cellist Vardan Gasparyan, drawing from liturgical chants and folk melodies passed down through generations. This performance offers a deeply spiritual and meditative experience, connecting the audience to Armenia’s rich musical traditions through the expressive voice of the cello.
Contemporary Bulgarian Classical Music by renowned Grammy -winning composer Penka Kouneva and others, perfromed by featured solo violinist Blagomira Lipari alonsgide Brian Shih - Violin, Ariana Solotoff - Viola and Mark Bassett - Cello. Infused with the rhythmic vitality and modal colors of Bulgaria and beyond, this program celebrates the innovation and dynamism of Eastern European musical voices.
Contemporary Bulgarian Classical Music by renowned Grammy -winning composer Penka Kouneva and others, perfromed by featured solo violinist Blagomira Lipari alonsgide Brian Shih - Violin, Ariana Solotoff - Viola and Mark Bassett - Cello of the LACM Artist Ensemble Collective. Infused with the rhythmic vitality and modal colors of Bulgaria and beyond, this program celebrates the innovation and dynamism of Eastern European musical voices.
Genre-defying selections by Astral Mixtape, the LA-based ensemble known for blurring the lines between classical, jazz, pop, and electronic music. Their electrifying performance will showcase how classical instruments can thrive in modern soundscapes, resonating with a new generation of listeners.
Genre Bending Takes by Astral Mixtape, the LA-based ensemble known for blurring the lines between classical, jazz, pop, and electronic music. Their electrifying performance will showcase how classical instruments can thrive in modern soundscapes, resonating with a new generation of listeners.
Claude Debussy’s Danse sacrée et danse profane for harp and strings, a French Impressionist masterpiece performed by featured solo harpist Carter Williams and the LACM collective string ensemble featuring Mina Hong -Violin 1, Brian Shih - Violin 2, Ariana Solotoff - Viola and Mark Bassett - Cello. With its lyrical elegance, harmonic ambiguity, and modal beauty, this work invites the audience into a world of ethereal sound and poetic reverence. Composed in 1904, Danse sacrée et danse profane reflects Debussy’s fascination with non-Western musical traditions, a curiosity first awakened at the 1889 Paris World Exposition. There, Debussyencountered Javanese gamelan music—its layered rhythms, tonal colors, and circular structures left a lasting impression that would deeply influence his approach to form, texture, and harmony.
Claude Debussy’s Danse sacrée et danse profane for harp and strings, a French Impressionist masterpiece performed by featured solo harpist Carter Williams and the LACM collective string ensemble featuring Mina Hong -Violin 1, Brian Shih - Violin 2, Ariana Solotoff - Viola and Mark Bassett - Cello. With its lyrical elegance, harmonic ambiguity, and modal beauty, this work invites the audience into a world of ethereal sound and poetic reverence. Composed in 1904, Danse sacrée et danse profane reflects Debussy’s fascination with non-Western musical traditions, a curiosity first awakened at the 1889 Paris World Exposition. There, Debussyencountered Javanese gamelan music—its layered rhythms, tonal colors, and circular structures left a lasting impression that would deeply influence his approach to form, texture, and harmony.
Sacred Armenian cello solos performed by outstanding cellist Vardan Gasparyan, drawing from liturgical chants and folk melodies passed down through generations. This performance offers a deeply spiritual and meditative experience, connecting the audience to Armenia’s rich musical traditions through the expressive voice of the cello.
Contemporary Bulgarian Classical Music by renowned Grammy -winning composer Penka Kouneva and others, perfromed by featured solo violinist Blagomira Lipari alonsgide Brian Shih - Violin, Ariana Solotoff - Viola and Mark Bassett - Cello of the LACM Ensemble Collective. Infused with the rhythmic vitality and modal colors of Bulgaria and beyond, this program celebrates the innovation and dynamism of Eastern European musical voices.
Genre Bending Takes by Astral Mixtape, the LA-based ensemble known for blurring the lines between classical, jazz, pop, and electronic music. Their electrifying performance will showcase how classical instruments can thrive in modern soundscapes, resonating with a new generation of listeners.
Claude Debussy’s Danse sacrée et danse profane for harp and strings, a French Impressionist masterpiece performed by featured solo harpist Carter Williams and the LACM collective string ensemble featuring Mina Hong -Violin 1, Brian Shih - Violin 2, Ariana Solotoff - Viola and Mark Bassett - Cello. With its lyrical elegance, harmonic ambiguity, and modal beauty, this work invites the audience into a world of ethereal sound and poetic reverence. Composed in 1904, Danse sacrée et danse profane reflects Debussy’s fascination with non-Western musical traditions, a curiosity first awakened at the 1889 Paris World Exposition. There, Debussyencountered Javanese gamelan music—its layered rhythms, tonal colors, and circular structures left a lasting impression that would deeply influence his approach to form, texture, and harmony.
community mixer & networking social
community mixer & networking social
…this mixer is designed to create real relationships and open pathways to collaboration.
Refreshments will be provided, conversation will be encouraged and dancing to a live DJ set will be welcomed. We hope to foster a relaxed, informal and welcoming environment where everyone—from seasoned professionals to emerging talents—can engage with intention and curiosity.
Following the performances, we invite you to stay for an engaging community networking mixer—a chance to connect with other passionate individuals, performers, presenters, and partners in the classical arts field.
Whether you're looking to:
Meet local musicians
Discover new collaborators
Explore upcoming opportunities through LACM
Learn about performance artist support
Share your ideas, initiatives, or needs with the wider music community
Learn About the LACM Artist Roster and How to Get Involved
Learn About the LACM Artist Roster and How to Get Involved
During the event, you’ll also have the opportunity to learn more about Los Angeles Classical Music Inc.’s Artist Roster.
This initiative is part of LACM’s commitment to establishing fair pay, values-based representation, and meaningful performance opportunities for classical musicians in Los Angeles. LACM is working to normalize livable wages and increase visibility for LA’s top professional concertizing musicians.
This event is the ideal moment to learn more, ask questions, and express interest in being part of this jounrey in whatever way feels most meaningful to you.
LACM’s work goes beyond presenting performances—we are building a movement for equity, inclusion, and innovation in classical music.
Too often, classical musicians in LA lack the resources, spaces, and support systems to fully thrive.
LACM exists to change that. Through initiatives like our Artist Roster and Immersive Listening Experiences, we are laying the foundation for a new kind of classical music culture— an iconic music culture that embraces collaboration, centers cultural identity, and supports its artists as professionals.
Your presence at this inaugural mixer helps us grow stronger, together.
LACM’s work goes beyond presenting performances—we are building a movement for equity, inclusion, and innovation in classical music.
Too often, classical musicians in LA lack the resources, spaces, and support systems to fully thrive.
LACM exists to change that. Through initiatives like our Artist Collective and Immersive Listening Experiences, we are laying the foundation for a new kind of classical music culture— an iconic music culture that embraces collaboration, centers cultural identity, and supports its artists as professionals.
Your presence at this inaugural mixer helps us grow stronger, together.
LACM’s work goes beyond presenting performances—we are building a movement for equity, inclusion, and innovation in classical music.
Too often, classical musicians in LA lack the resources, spaces, and support systems to fully thrive.
LACM exists to change that. Through initiatives like our Artist Roster and Immersive Listening Experiences, we are laying the foundation for a new kind of classical music culture— an iconic music culture that embraces collaboration, centers cultural identity, and supports its artists as professionals.
Your presence at this inaugural mixer helps us grow stronger, together.
Building a Better Future for Classical Music Together
RSPV AND experience with us
LIVE DJ
a good time
About
PROGRAMS
experiences
CONTACT
1
Gross performance revenue
(including ticket sales, merchandise, and sponsorships)
Key Performance Indicatiors
2
Number of immersive events
produced annually
3
Total audience attendance
(per event and annually)
4
Repeat attendance rates
and year-over-year audience growth
LACM
501(c)(3) Nonprofit Corporation
Address: 8549 Wilshire Blvd. Ste. 1184 Beverly Hills CA 90211
info@lacm.org
About
PROGRAMS
experiences
CONTACT
Building a Better Future for Classical Music Together
RSPV AND experience
1
Gross performance revenue
(including ticket sales, merchandise, and sponsorships)
Key Performance Indicatiors
2
Number of immersive events
produced annually
3
Total audience attendance
(per event and annually)
4
Repeat attendance rates
and year-over-year audience growth
LACM
Korean-American violinist Mina Hong, born and raised in Los Angeles, is Principal Second Violin of the Amarillo Symphony and an active studio musician. A graduate of USC and the University of Michigan, she has performed with ensembles including the Hollywood Chamber Orchestra, Wild Up, and IRIS Symphony, and at festivals such as Aspen and Great Mountains. She served as concertmaster of the National Repertory Orchestra and made solo appearances with Barber and Korngold concertos. Mina enjoys teaching at Salit Conservatory and collaborating across disciplines. She performs on a rare 1785 Ferdinandus Gagliano Filius/Nicolai violin.
Carter Williams, a senior harpist at USC, is known for her ambitious drive, artistic versatility, and commitment to musical collaboration. She regularly performs as a soloist and ensemble player with USC’s opera, symphony, wind, and choir orchestras, and has appeared with the Pacific Symphony and Fresno Philharmonic. Passionate about both classical and cinematic music, she combines her harp studies with a minor in cinematic arts, aiming to one day compose and perform film scores. Inspired by mentors JoAnn Turovsky, Emmanuel Ceysson, and Laura Porter, Carter is also dedicated to teaching and mentoring the next generation of harpists.
Ariana Solotoff is a Los Angeles-based violist and violinist originally from New York. She earned her Bachelor’s from The Juilliard School and her Master’s from the Haute École de Musique de Genève, supported by the Hans Wilsdorf Foundation. She has performed with orchestras including the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Kaleidoscope Chamber Orchestra, and Camerata Venia, and appeared on the Grammy Awards, Disney Channel, and major film soundtracks. A dedicated educator, she directs the Pascale Music Program and teaches at Montecito International Music Festival, Idyllwild Arts, and Cremona International Music Academy. Ariana also leads Popsical Music, a concert series for young children and families.
Penka Kouneva, Grammy-winning composer and studio orchestrator, has worked in Hollywood for 26 years scoring television (Dragon Age Absolution Netflix series), films (Aga, Encounter), video games (League of Legends, Prince of Persia) and theme parks (Heroes and Legends at the Kennedy Space Center). Her two orchestral albums, The Woman Astronaut (2015) and Rebirth of Id (2017) were released by Universal Music. Penka was born and raised in Bulgaria and holds the first-ever Ph.D. in composition from Duke University (1997). Penka’s notable awards include Duke University Distinguished Alumna, BMI Impact Award, Hollywood Music in Media Award, Sundance Institute Fellowship, Ovation Awards, Game Audio Network Guild Recognition Award, and Aaron Copland Award-Residency.
Blagomira Lipari is a versatile violinist and conductor, recognized with the Ivan Vazov Medal for her contribution to Bulgarian culture and the Exceptional Prix from the International Chamber Music Competition in Belgium. She has soloed with the National Academy of Music Orchestra, Orpheus Chamber Orchestra, and New Millennium Orchestra, and performed at venues like Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, and the Paris Conservatory. She appears frequently on international media and serves on the boards of the National Music & Global Culture Society and Bulgarian Concert Evenings in New York. Dr. Lipari currently teaches in Los Angeles at multiple music academies.
Mark Bassett is a Los Angeles-based cellist known for performances with the Calder Quartet, South Florida Symphony, and on major video game concert tours like The Legend of Zelda: Symphony of the Goddesses and Final Fantasy: Distant Worlds. He has recorded for AAA and indie games, including Final Fantasy XII and XV. A passionate educator, Mark directs the Strings Department at YOLA (Youth Orchestra Los Angeles) Beckman and teaches at West Coast Music Academy. He maintains a private studio, focusing on both technical mastery and artistic expression, and is dedicated to empowering young musicians through high-quality music education.
Astral Mixtape is a band that creates groundbreaking original music with classical instruments and electronics. By combining their wide-ranging listening interests with a lifetime of classical training, they have created a personal musical language all their own. They are winners of the 2023 Astral Artists Competition and the 2024 Beverly Hills National Auditions. In April 2025, they released an album of seven original works called Biolumy.