Merced Symphony seeks ‘La Dolce Vita’

The Merced Symphony is looking for a taste of the sweet life during a fundraiser on Friday.

The Merced Symphony Association’s annual buffet and auction, called Savor our Symphony, is themed “La Dolce Vita” for the event from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Italo-American Lodge, 1351 W. 18th St. “La dolce vita” means “the sweet life” in Italian.

Local artist and musician Dave Medley and other musicians will provide background music for the social hour. Vocalist Cheryl Lockett is scheduled to sing.

The event supports the classical music season put on annually by the symphony, which includes educational programs such as youth auditions and children’s concerts, according to organizers.

In January, more than 3,000 students attended free concerts in Los Banos and Merced, organizers said. The symphony’s next concert is “Carmina Burana,” which is planned April 23 at Merced Theatre.

Auctions are also part of the Savor the Symphony’s fundraising.

The event offers a no-host bar and gourmet hors d’oeuvres with an Italian flair. Individual tickets are $50 and a table of 8 is $500.

For more, go to www.mercedsymphony.org.

This story was originally published March 24, 2016 at 2:56 PM with the headline "Merced Symphony seeks ‘La Dolce Vita’."