First time visiting this venue and my initial impression was... WOW!…read moreLocated on the grounds of Soka University in Aliso Viejo, the campus is gorgeous. I drove about 1 hour to attend a concert by world renowned jazz artist, David Benoit.
The music hall was ideal for an intimate experience. The 1,000 seat theater is acoustically perfect so there isn't a bad seat in the house. My seats were comfortable and roomy and afforded me a bird's eye view of the artist, and the symphony orchestra that accompanied him. The restrooms were easily accessible, as were the concessions stands. Parking was free and simple. I got in and out as if I were parking in my own private garage. Ample handicap spots were available, thankfully. Shuttle service from the parking lot to the entry gate was abundant and a thoughtful convenience for less mobile patrons.
The staff was helpful when needed.
Ok, now if you're interested... a music review.
David Benoit & Cecilia Tsan: Resonance & Renewal - World Premiere ... was amazing!
I laughed! I cried! I whistled & applauded through countless standing ovations!
I thoroughly enjoyed the performance, and I was not alone.
Interestingly, I also learned about a life saving program available right here in Southern California that coincidentally, helped save the life of Mr. Benoit, himself. As he shared during the concert, Benoit suffered from kidney failure and desperately needed a transplant. Unfortunately, his wife Kei was not a match. However, a ground breaking program at UCLA allowed participants to donate healthy organs to those in need. It's kind of like a "trade-in" program for vital organs. So, in turn, if someone else donates an organ that matches your needs.. viola!
We have a match made in heaven, on earth!!
So, Kei donated her kidney to save a life, and someone else eventually donated a kidney match that saved her husband David's life!
Team work makes the dream work!!
If you, or someone you know, needs an organ transplant, check out the program at UCLA!
Ok, now back to the music, I promise!!
The first half of the show was Benoit and a 40-piece symphony orchestra performing his Resonance and Renewal original composition, which was inspired by his life journey. From the hectic days of his early musical career, to the challenges of his health struggles, to the gift of new life following his kidney transplant. Knowing just a few of the personal details he shared with his audience allowed everyone to enjoy Resonance and Renewal all the more.
Of course, the most memorable highlights of the evening followed in the second half of the program where he sat alone at his grand piano, accompanied by just his drummer and bass player, as he riffed through several jazz classics!
Standing ovations followed.
But there's more. When you have a symphony orchestra at your disposal, you use it to the max. Especially when the orchestra is made up from your own former students!!
So, when the orchestra re-joined Benoit on stage, magic ensued.
He opened with a tribute to his wife with a piece entitled, Kei. It took but a handful of musical notes, ushered in by several amazing violinists, to bring tears from my eyes and down over my cheeks!
It touched my soul so deeply I could not contain my emotions. It was the best cry I've had in years.
Thank you, David Benoit. And thank you, Kei Benoit, as well.
