On Wednesday, August 29^th, SLO Symphony will present “Toast of SLO” featuring acclaimed Spanish guitarist José María Gallardo del Rey. This intimate summer evening of classical guitar and conversation will be held at the Varian Ranch.  Gallardo del Rey will perform solo selections accompanied by fine wine and desserts.

A long time collaborator with SLO Symphony Music Director Michael Nowak and local composer Craig Russell, Gallardo del Rey has been a frequent soloist with the SLO Symphony, performing and recording Russell’s Concierto Romántico with the orchestra in the early 1990’s and premiering the same work at both Carnegie Hall in 2001 and the Walt Disney Concert Hall in 2008. Mr. Gallardo del Rey will be in San Luis Obispo to record his own original composition, Glosas, a concerto for violin, guitar and orchestra. Glosas was commissioned by Michael Nowak and received its premiere in March, 2011, as part of the Symphony’s 50^th Anniversary Season. Violinist Anabel García del Castillo, Gallardo del Rey’s wife, will also be featured in Glosas and at the Symphony’s Pops Romántico concert on September 2^nd at the Avila Beach Golf Resort.

Seating is limited to just 50 guests at $100 per person. Advance reservations are required and may be made online at slosymphony.com or by calling the Symphony office at (805) 543-3533.