Twenty Years of Magic

“He’s the most genuine, authentic human. Not a diva in any way, shape, or form,” declared Janet Garufis, who helped hire Maestro Nir Kabaretti two decades ago. Now Santa Barbara Symphony board chair, Garufis co-chaired The Magic of Music, a glittering gala celebrating Kabaretti’s 20th anniversary as Music and Artistic Director.

Held at the Music Academy of the West, the October 17 festivities drew an elegantly dressed crowd for cocktails, a Nir & Friends concert, spirited auctions, and dinner under the stars.

Joining Garufis as gala co-chairs were Meg Burnham, Christie Glanville, and Anne Towbes.

“Twenty years ago, he infused our wonderful organization with such energy and spirit and spunk,” recalled Towbes. “We’re hoping for 20 more.”

During the concert, Kabaretti reflected on his first rehearsal on that very stage.

“I had no idea how meaningful the journey would become and how much it would change my life,” he told guests.

Outside, Merryl Brown Events created an alfresco symphony of black and gold. Twinkling lights illuminated tables dressed with gilded flatware, champagne-colored napkins, candlelight, and lush peach-and-pink florals. A circular bar offered signature cocktails, while the silent auction featured an original violin-and-wildflowers artwork by Nir’s wife, Gaia Kabaretti.

Auction highlights included a luxurious Milan getaway with the Maestro and a private conducting lesson featuring a baton once owned by legendary Zubin Mehta.

Yet beneath the glamour lay a deeper purpose. When Garufis recently asked Kabaretti what he wanted his legacy to be, his answer came without hesitation: music education.

Proceeds supported the Symphony’s music education programs, nurturing the next generation of musicians. Among those celebrating the milestone were Kathryn and Peter Martin, Mary Dorra, Jenna and Avi Reichenthal, Christine and Michael Holland, Rodney Baker, Pamela and Josh Grotstein, Robert Ooley, Deb and Tom Loeb, Shauna Quill, Howard Greils, James Tollios, Antonio Artese, Samantha Stout, and Tessa Kaganoff.

After 20 years on the podium, the Maestro’s most enduring legacy may be the young musicians who will one day follow his lead.