
The Fresno Philharmonic, and music director Rei Hotoda, are pleased to present the launch of Cultural Crossroads, a new multi-season series of commissions exploring and celebrating the diverse cultures of the Fresno region. The inaugural Cultural Crossroads project features a first-time collaboration with the Gabriela Lena Frank Creative Academy of Music (GLFCAM). Called Cultural Crossroads: Kisetsu (“seasons” in Japanese), the centerpiece of this first project is the commission of a new work by composers Hitomi Oba and Erika Oba based on the life and writings of David “Mas” Masumoto, a Central Valley writer and organic peach farmer.
February 2025 Community Events

Ampersand Ice Cream x The Fresno Philharmonic
The Fresno Philharmonic is thrilled to have partnered with Ampersand to create a special flavor, Dreamy Philharmonic Peach, made from Masumoto Peaches!
Available starting Feb. 6 at all three locations!

JACL 2025 Day of Remembrance Luncheon
Saturday, February 8th
12pm – 2pm
Fresno County Historical Museum @ the Fairgrounds
Hosted by the Japanese American Citizens League, Central California District Council. RSVP required – please see below.

Community Conversations @ UJCC
Tuesday, February 11
10:00am
136 N. Villa Ave., Clovis
Join us as Rei Hotoda, Stephen Wilson, Erika Oba & Hitomi Oba, and Mas Masumoto have a riveting conversation about Meguru, Mas’s new book, and more!
Watch the video below to learn more and see a sneak peek about the commission process.