Thank you for joining us for A Serenade to Music: John Alexander’s Grand Encore on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall.

This unforgettable season finale marked a milestone in Pacific Chorale’s history as John Alexander returned to the podium for his final performance conducting Pacific Chorale and Pacific Symphony. Surrounded by the artists, colleagues, friends, and audience members who have been part of his extraordinary legacy, the evening was both a celebration and a farewell — a tribute to a conductor whose artistry helped shape the sound, spirit, and standard of Pacific Chorale for generations.

From the opening strains of Vaughan Williams’ Serenade to Music to the profound final moments of Jake Heggie’s Seeking Higher Ground, the program reflected John’s deep belief in the healing and humanizing power of music. Works by Mozart, Bruckner, Brahms, Lili Boulanger, Frank Ticheli, and Heggie carried the audience through an evening of beauty, reflection, resilience, and hope.

“John Alexander’s masterful design of the program from Mozart to Heggie was sublime, and the performances by choir, symphony, and soloists were tear- and goosebump-raising. What a privilege to be in attendance!” — Concert Attendee

Pacific Chorale was honored to share the stage once again with Pacific Symphony, joined by an extraordinary ensemble of vocal artists and instrumentalists. Together, the performers brought John’s deeply personal program to life with the warmth, precision, and emotional depth that have long defined this artistic partnership.

The evening also included a special onstage tribute by Pacific Chorale Board Chair Julie Virjee, recognizing John Alexander’s extraordinary contributions to Pacific Chorale and announcing his new title as Artistic Director Laureate — a fitting honor for a musician whose leadership, mentorship, and vision have left a lasting imprint on the cultural life of Orange County.

Audience members described the concert as “profound and gorgeous,” “a joyful experience,” and “a wonderful concert” filled with moments that brought tears, memories, and renewed appreciation for the power of choral music.

“Truly exceptional concert. I am subscribing for the upcoming season.” — Concert Attendee

We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who made this performance possible: John Alexander, Robert Istad, Pacific Symphony, our soloists and musicians, our Board and supporters, and every audience member who joined us for this historic evening.

Scroll through the gallery below to relive a few of our favorite moments from John Alexander’s Grand Encore. We hope you will join us again soon as Pacific Chorale continues this legacy into a new season of extraordinary choral music.

Photos © Jamie Pham

Highlights: John Alexander’s Grand Encore