FRESH FROM METROPOLITAN OPERA DEBUT, MICHAEL CHRISTIE LEADS NEW WEST SYMPHONY IN “BERNSTEIN, BRAHMS, AND BLUES”
Featuring Soloist Tai Murray in a Program of American Spirit and Classical Masterpieces
THOUSAND OAKS & CAMARILLO — Following his highly acclaimed debut at the Metropolitan Opera in New York City this February, Music Director Michael Christie returns to the New West Symphony (NWS) podium to lead “Bernstein, Brahms, and Blues.” This highly anticipated concert series brings together the energy of American jazz, the depth of German Romanticism, and the virtuosity of guest soloist Tai Murray.
A Conductor in Demand Maestro Christie recently commanded the stage at Lincoln Center, conducting the Met’s new production of Mason Bates’ The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay (Feb 2026). Having led a star-studded cast in one of the opera world’s most prestigious venues, Christie now brings that same world-class energy back to Ventura County. “Conducting at the Met was an exhilarating experience,” says Christie. “But there is nothing quite like returning home to the New West Symphony. We are channeling all that excitement into this program, which explores the deep connections between classical tradition and the American blues. As we continue to celebrate America’s 250th birthday this season, I’m excited to connect pivotal moments in United States history with musical landmarks, such as Brahms’ First Symphony being premiered when the US turned 100 in 1876! “
A Star Soloist Sharing the stage with Christie is the sensational soloist, Tai Murray – A musical prodigy who performed her first concert at the age of nine, Tai Murray has established herself as a force in the classical world. Known for her “electrifying stage presence” and deep musical sensitivity, she will join the orchestra for a performance that promises to be a season highlight. Tai Murray plays a very special Tomaso Balestrieri fecit Mantua ca. 1765,
The Program: Bernstein, Brahms, and Blues.
This unique program weaves together three distinct musical threads:
- Leonard Bernstein: Capturing the kinetic energy of New York and the American spirit.
- Johannes Brahms: Offering the lush, sweeping romanticism of the 19th century.
- The Blues: Exploring the roots of American music and its influence on the symphonic form.
Performance Dates:
- Saturday, April 11, 7 PM: Bank of America Performing Arts Center, Thousand Oaks.
- Sunday, April 12, 3 PM: Rancho Campana Performing Arts Center, Camarillo.
Tickets and information are available at NewWestSymphony.org
About New West Symphony: Founded in 1995, the New West Symphony is a professional orchestra serving Ventura County and the Conejo Valley, presenting a Masterpiece Series in Thousand Oaks and Camarillo as well as education and community engagement programs throughout the region. Under the artistic leadership of GRAMMY® Award–winning conductor Michael Christie, the Symphony is known for adventurous programming, world premieres, and collaborations that bridge classical masterworks with contemporary voices. New West Symphony is committed to artistic excellence, music education, and expanding access to live orchestral music across Southern California. For more information, visit www.newwestsymphony.org.
About Michael Christie, Conductor: GRAMMY® Award–winning conductor Michael Christie is Artistic and Music Director of the New West Symphony and is internationally recognized for his work in both symphonic and operatic repertoire. He made his Metropolitan Opera debut in 2026 and has led productions at Santa Fe Opera, San Francisco Opera, Minnesota Opera, Opera Theatre of Saint Louis, and major orchestras across North America, Europe, and Australia.
A champion of new music, Christie won the 2019 GRAMMY® Award for Best Opera Recording for Mason Bates’ The (R)evolution of Steve Jobs. Known for programming that is both innovative and audience-focused, he brings dynamic artistry and visionary leadership to every performance.
About Tai Murray, Violin: Described by The New York Times as “superb,” violinist Tai Murray has established herself as one of today’s most compelling musical voices. Winner of an Avery Fisher Career Grant and a former BBC New Generation Artist, she has appeared as soloist with leading ensembles including the Indianapolis Symphony, Royal Liverpool Philharmonic, and the BBC Symphony Orchestras, and has performed at Carnegie Hall, the BBC Proms, and major venues throughout Europe and the United States.
A dedicated advocate for contemporary music, she has premiered new works internationally and is widely praised for her refined tone, elegant phrasing, and expressive depth. Murray serves as Associate Professor of Violin at the Yale School of Music and performs on a 1765 Tomaso Balestrieri violin on generous loan from a private collection.