More than 600 student musicians filled the stage at the Renee and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, transforming one of Southern California’s most prestigious venues into a celebration of talent, collaboration and community.

The 41st annual Donald Bren Honors Concert on April 17, 2025, brought together Irvine Unified School District’s top vocalists and instrumentalists in grades 5-12 for an evening of music that showcased not only their technical skill, but also their dedication and joy.

“It was a very proud moment,” said Jamie Namkoong after watching her daughter, Aerin, perform violin for the Middle School Honor Orchestra. “Everybody that was on the stage, they are just amazing artists. I was very glad that my daughter was able to make it.”

The concert stands as a prime example of Irvine’s thriving music program, bolstered by Irvine Company Chairman Donald Bren’s 20-year, $50-million Excellence in Education Enrichment Fund to support IUSD’s art, music and science education. Before the show, Irvine Company presented the district with its 19th consecutive $2 million check.

Backstage and in the lobby before the concert, the energy was buzzing. Choir students, dressed in black — some in dress pants worn only for special occasions — hummed warmups and greeted friends from other schools. Nervous chatter filled the air as students adjusted collars and sleeves, many exchanging hugs and encouragement.

“Studies show students who participate in fine or performing arts experience cognitive benefits,” Northwood High choir teacher Tyler Alessi said. “There are also social benefits. For me, music was the reason I came to school. It gave me a space to be loud, to make noise, to be with friends, to create something beautiful, to be inspired by text and music. It set me up to earn my bachelor’s, master’s and doctorate degrees. Without that foundation, I wouldn’t have done any of it.”

The evening closed with a powerful joint performance of “Branches of One Great Tree,” a piece by renowned composer Shawn Kirchner, performed by students across all grade levels.

“It’s such a rare opportunity to see your child on a stage like this,” said Jamie Kim, whose sixth-grade son, Bradley, plays violin. “It’s unlike anything else – the level of involvement from the teachers and the sheer talent of the students.”

“I know that the Irvine Company supports us often, and we cannot do what we do without that extra support,” said music teacher Irene Kang, who conducted the Elementary Honors Orchestra. “The amount of music we offer through our elementary program is really rare in California. I’ve worked in three different districts, and the caliber here is different – Irvine is the best.”