The Aurora Mandolin Orchestra at San Francisco Public Library

The Aurora Mandolin Orchestra will be performing from its repertoire this Saturday, November 22 at 3pm. The Orchestra is made up of professional and amateur musicians and features musicians playing mandolin, mandola, mandocello, guitar, string bass, accordion, flute and percussion. Their varied repertoire includes traditional and semi-classical works from Italy, Russia and Spain and contemporary orchestral works. In addition, audience members will be treated to a demonstration by dancers to a selection of Strauss waltzes.

There is a long history of Italian mandolin music in San Francisco. These ensembles were originally concentrated in the City's North Beach neighborhood and later spread through the Bay Area. Those interested in learning about this rich tradition should read Mandolins, Like Salami: A History & Personal Memoir by Sheri Mignano Crawford. This richly illustrated book provides a history of the local mandolinists and their repertoire.

This program will be held in the lower level of the Main Library in the Koret Auditorium and is free and open to the public.

Thanks to the Friends of the Library for sponsoring this event.