Welcome to Season 23!

Since 2004, the Channel Islands Chamber Orchestra has been a vital part of Ventura  County’s cultural life—bringing people together through the power of live music. Founded  by Les Vielbig, Henning Ottsen, and Bruce Walker, CHICO continues to thrive through the  dedication of our musicians and the generosity of supporters like you. 

This season, we proudly present a rich and diverse program, featuring rising talents such as  Eleanor Shen and Miles Goosby, alongside renowned artists like Natasha Kislenko, Louise  Lofquist, and Grammy Award winner Kelley O’Connor. Each concert reflects our  commitment to artistic excellence, musical discovery, and community connection. 

Your support is essential. It enables us to nurture young musicians, present inspiring  performances, and collaborate on signature events, such as the Choral Spectacular with the Channel Islands Choral Association. Together, we create music that enriches all our lives. 

Thank you for being part of the CHICO family. We invite you to explore how your continued  support can help keep the music alive for seasons to come. 

KuanFen Liu, Artistic Director and Conductor

SEASON OPENER - Bold. Brilliant. Revolutionary

Sunday, September 28, 2025 | 3 PM

Location: Ventura First United Methodist Church

Felix Mendelssohn–“Scottish Symphony” Ludwig van Beethoven–“Triple Concerto”

Two innovative, groundbreaking works open our 23rd season. Mendelssohn’s “Scottish” Symphony and Beethoven’s Triple Concerto each “broke the mold” of the traditional symphony and the concerto. The “Scottish” is the first symphony to be written without breaks between the four movements, foreshadowing the cyclic form of the Late Romantic period. Beethoven’s Triple Concerto is the first of its kind since the Baroque concerto grosso form, and intertwines the solo trio and the orchestra in new and innovative ways.