A Symphonic Start to ‘26

Written by Sarah Ettman-Sterner

Montecito rang in the New Year with glam, goodwill, and a dash of Monte Carlo flair at Mary and Bob Gates’ “Carriage House of Pepper Hill,” the beautifully restored 1916 estate they call home. Nearly 100 guests arrived dressed to the nines, stepping into a courtyard washed in blue and green light. Father Time and Mother Eternity greeted everyone at the door, while inside, a sparkling entry table – topped with a towering floral arrangement and vintage party hats – set the tone for the night. Framed photographs by Alma Rose Middleton lined the estate, capturing years of past New Year’s memories. Cocktails flowed, and Chef Cristian Chavez’s hors d’oeuvres disappeared quickly thanks to an attentive waitstaff.

For the Gates’, New Year’s Eve is a “party with purpose,” centered on their love for the Santa Barbara Symphony and their commitment to supporting young musical talent. The evening began at the Granada Theatre, where the Gates, serving as Artist Sponsors, reserved prime seats for 60 friends – many first-timers to the Symphony’s annual Broadway-meets-Hollywood celebration. Tony Award-winning conductor Stuart Malina led the program, joined by rising musical theater star Madison Claire Parks.

After the concert, guests returned to Pepper Hill for round two. Some tried their luck at a Monte Carlo-style blackjack table, while others hit the dance floor to live music from Bob Luna, John Hart, Donzell Davis, and two-time Grammy-nominated vocalist Shea Chambers.

A highlight of the night was 19-year-old Maile Kai Merrick, a Santa Barbara native with an already impressive résumé – performances with Katy Perry, David Foster, and Kenny Loggins among them. Studying at the Norwalk Conservatory of the Arts, she’s on a fast track to a bright future; as Mary Gates quipped, it won’t be long before Maile’s name shines on a Broadway marquee. She was joined by pianist Andrew Diffenderfer, a Cal Baptist freshman and 2023 Santa Barbara Teen Star winner.

As midnight neared, Maile belted “All I Ask of You,” and Bob Gates led the countdown before “Auld Lang Syne” filled the room.

For Mary, the night’s magic comes down to friendship, music, and creating space for young artists to dream big. “It’s that harmony of generosity, creativity, and shared wonder,” she said, “that makes each New Year’s Eve so meaningful.”

From the Granada to Pepper Hill, the celebration was more than a party – it was a reminder of how art and community can bring people together.