Santa Barbara Symphony’s “Bella Italia,” A Brilliant Musical Evening

On Saturday the Santa Barbara Symphony provided an enthusiastic Granada Theatre audience with the amazing Bella Italia, a four-century journey through Italian masterworks — anchored by the American premiere of a bold new concerto inspired by Ferrari’s iconic Rosso Corsa.

Guest artist Hanzhi Wang — the first accordionist ever admitted to Young Concert Artists — brought this high-velocity work to life under the baton of Maestro Nir Kabaretti. The program was a beautiful musical journey from Baroque brilliance to cinematic orchestral spectacle, and every moment was simply delightful from beginning to end.

Acclaimed accordionist Hanzhi Wang became the first solo accordionist to be featured on New York WQXR’s Young Artists Showcase and releasing the Naxos label’s first-ever solo accordion CD, On the Path to H.C. Andersen, which was nominated for the prestigious DR (Danish Radio) P2 Pria=ze in 2029. She was also named Musical America’s “New Artist of the month.”

Miss Wang’s amazing skill, coupled with conductor Nir Kabaretti’s direction synergized to take the audience on a most unexpected cinematic orchestral adventure experiencing the unique spirit of Italy. Miss Wang was stunning in green while giving a very passionate and unique accordion performance. Her joyful enthusiasm was contagious and appreciated by the full house of music lovers.

Cristian Carrara Composer has been hailed as one of the most important composers of his generation. He mainly writes symphonic and chamber music but also works for musical theatre and television. Cristian is a charming Italian, who resides in the far northern area of Italy near Venice, who shared his pleasure to meet audience members following the Red Ferrari Accordion concerto (a US premiere, co-commissioned by Santa Barbara Symphony, Orchestra della Toscana, Musica Insieme – Bologna, Richmond Symphony Orchestra & FVG Orchestra) I. Velocita (Speed), II. Eleganza (Elegance), III. Segno (Dream).

Critics recognize in his production a writing that is “very attentive to the balance and delicacy of the harmonic texture”, but “great in creative intent so that the whole context is very solid and terse,” capable of revealing, beyond the curtain of an apparently ‘simple’ music, the terrible question about  the nefarious results of what is well-proclaimed, that is, of what war, every war, entails.” (Claudio Stringti)

Following intermission, the audience was treated to an outstanding performance of Puccini Capriccio Sinfonico and Respighi The Pines of Rome including 1. The Pines of the Villa Borghese, II. Pines Near a Catacomb, III. The Pines of the Janiculum and IV. The Pines of the Appian Way that took the audience on a musical journey of Italy’s most beautiful destinations. Maestro Kabaretti broke into a huge smile when I shared with him that I could see the flowers blowing in the breeze at Villa Borghese and see the legions marching on the Appian Way during this exceptional Bella Italia presentation. What a brilliant performance by all.

Meeting with talented composer Cristian Carrara, Maestro Kabaretti, friends and family members of the Santa Barbara Symphony following the performance was a special time. Grazie Miele to the generous symphony sponsors Montecito Bank Principal Sponsor, Susan Aberle, Rachel Kaganoff Artist Sponsors, Susan & Adam Berger, Mark & Shelley Bookspan, Wallin Studios Selection Sponsors, Sarah & Roger Chrisman 2025/26 Season Concert Sponsor, Montecito Bank & Trust 2025/26 Corporate Sponsor, The Granada Theatre 2025/26 Grand Venue Sponsor and of course The Santa Barbara Symphony for yet another outstanding concert experience at the Granada. For schedule of 2026/27 Season please visit: TheSympony.org.