Dr. Ed Elson and Frances Elson

Frances vividly remembers how happy she and Ed were to find a symphony orchestra in Ventura when they arrived in 1971. Concerts at the time were held at Ventura High School, and later at the performing arts center in Oxnard. This became an important part of the Elson's cultural life, and the formation of the New West Symphony was a milestone in that history. With Ed's passing in 2021, Fran was reminded of the importance of classical music for Ed, and how she felt his presence at each concert she attended. "It's an honor for me to be able to join the NWS Legacy Society, as a way of promoting classical music and preserving Ed's legacy!"

Fran had little exposure to symphonic music growing up. As a survivor and refugee from the Holocaust, it was her father's cantorial skills that led the way to their immigration to Canada, where their home was filled with musical traditions tied to their Jewish faith. She and Ed met and married in London, Ontario and eventually relocated to Ventura where Ed established a successful medical practice in nephrology and opened the first dialysis center in the county. Together with their daughter, Cheri, music remained integral to their lives, enjoying concerts at the LA Philharmonic and watching their local symphony grow under the direction of musical director, Boris Brott. Later the family moved to Somis where Fran, an interior designer and artist created their dream home and her fused glass studio, enjoying the NWS performances in Thousand Oaks and loving what Michael Christie added to the performances. Being able to enjoy the concerts in their new Camarillo venue was a bonus.

Fran's favorite memory of New West Symphony is an evening in which they hosted Vadym Kholodenko, a world- renowned pianist who performed his soulful music in what was a magical evening for the Elson's and other patrons who were present that evening.

Fran finds great comfort in her continued attendance at concerts and in supporting New West Symphony. She especially loves how NWS continues to evolve, providing opportunities for entire families, and wider audiences to enjoy all the wonderful performances. She feels it is important, and an honor, to do her part in "keeping the symphony alive and well."

May 2024