THE WEEK OF
January 29, 2003
Sisters
Culture Clash
Datebook
Craig Bohmler
Society
Contributed photograph
Emily Ray conducts the Mission Chamber Orchestra
Celebration a tribute to international relationships
By Estelle Pagnoux
The Mission Chamber Orchestra presents the world premiere of Sisters at the International Friendship Celebration at Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph on Feb. 8. The work was composed by Craig Bohmler as a tribute to San Jose and her seven sister cities. (See related story on final page of this section.)

The piece, commissioned by the chamber group, is based on the historical and cultural qualities of the sister cities, including Okayama, Japan; San Jose, Costa Rica; Veracruz, Mexico; Tainan, Taiwan; Dublin, Ireland; Pune, India; and Ekaterinburg, Russia.

Looking to break through traditional musical barriers, Mission Chamber Orchestra conductor Emily Ray wanted to offer a rich but accessible musical experience that would not only appeal to the community but also honor the diversity found in San Jose.

Also included in the program is Beethoven's Symphony No. 9 with the San Jose Symphonic Choir, violin soloist Pip Clarke in Mozart's Violin Concerto No. 1 and the Cantabile Children's Chorus.

The International Friendship Celebration begins at 8 p.m. at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph, 80 S. Market St. in downtown San Jose. Tickets are available at the door for $15 general admission, $10 students/seniors and $5 for children under 12. For more information, call 408.293.6060 or visit www.missionchamber.org.