MODESTO — The Modesto Symphony Orchestra celebrates the start of the orchestra’s 83rd season with Opening Weekend Concerts this Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. at the Gallo Center for the Arts.

A champagne reception is at 6 p.m. prior to both concerts. 

The Season Opening Concerts feature a program reflecting the Latin spirit and includes the popular American composer, Aaron Copland’s Danzon Cubano, The program also features the American premiere of Fantasia Flamenca and the world premiere of Raimundo Penaforte’s new composition Concertice for Brass Quintet & Chamber Orchestra.  Composer Raimundo Penaforte will be present and introduce his composition from the stage.

The Season Opening celebrations (Bubbly Bash 2013) begin at 6 p.m. It offers guests the opportunity to dress in their finest, walk down the red carpet and enjoy small plate entrees, champagne and a variety of wines in the old World Savings Bank building on 10th and I Street across from the Gallo Center for the Arts, before both concerts.

Tickets for the concert start at $15 while Bubbly Bash tickets are $50. They are available through the Gallo Center for the Arts ticket office at (209) 338-2100. Ticket office hours are Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from noon to 4 p.m.

Tickets are also available online at www.modestosymphony.org