Event
Young Person’s Concert
with musicians of the Naples Philharmonic
A performance for elementary school students
Penelope’s Odyssey of the Orchestra
Composed by James M. Stephenson
Musicians of the Naples Philharmonic
Manuel López-Gómez, associate conductor
Vanessa Rossberg, narrator
The Naples Philharmonic presents Penelope's Odyssey of the Orchestra, a newly commissioned work for chamber orchestra and narrator by former Naples Philharmonic trumpet player James M. Stephenson that provides audiences with a deeper understanding of the orchestra’s four instrument families and how each contributes to the mood and narrative. The unique setting at Daniels Pavilion allows for an intimate atmosphere, where the audience can closely engage with the Naples Philharmonic.
School Performances
Homeschoolers and families are welcome at the 10am performance. For school groups, there are both 10am and 11:30am performance times. Please visit the School Programs page for ticketing information on both performance times.
Family and Sensory-Friendly Concerts
There is a Family-Friendly version of this performance on October 10 at 10am. There is also a special Sensory-Friendly concert on October 10 at 11:30am. Tickets for both these special events can be purchased online or by calling 239-597-1900.
The Young Person's concerts for the 2026-27 season are generously sponsored by Joyce Hagen and Donald Fites, Dr. Jonathan Sonne and Dr. Rebecca Lambert, and David Shockley.
Naples Philharmonic
Naples Philharmonic
Founded in 1982, the Naples Philharmonic normally performs over 140 orchestral and chamber concerts, as well as opera and ballet, education, community and special event concerts from September through June each year.
Meet the Musicians
Alexander Shelley
Artistic and Music Director Meet Alexander
Jack Everly
Principal Pops Conductor Meet Jack
James Ehnes
Artistic Partner Meet James
Manuel López-Gómez
Associate Conductor Meet Manuel
Manuel López-Gómez
Manuel López-Gómez
Hugely successful appearances across the globe with many of the world’s finest orchestras have established Manuel López-Gómez’s reputation as a forceful, visionary and inspiring conductor. In addition to his concert work, Manuel is passionate about opera, having previously conducted and recorded the world premiere of Atahualpa by Carlo Enrico Pasta as well as engagements conducting Roméo et Juliette, Il viaggio a Reims and Le nozze di Figaro.
For more than 15 years, Manuel worked side-by-side with Gustavo Dudamel on symphonic and opera projects in Caracas, Los Angeles, Paris and at the Salzburg Festival.
Manuel began studying violin, piano, chamber music, composition and conducting in Venezuela. A product of El Sistema, he views the musical training of young people as a key duty. In 2024, he served as associate conductor of the Medellín Philharmonic Orchestra and currently holds the position of associate conductor of the Naples Philharmonic.
Meet Manuel
Vanessa Rossberg
Vanessa Rossberg
Born and raised in New Jersey, Rossberg is a graduate of Montclair State University, where she earned a bachelor's degree in musical theater. She has performed across the country, from Carnegie Hall to stages throughout the East Coast. Recent Naples credits include Les Misérables (Fantine, The Naples Players) and Oliver! (Mrs. Sowerberry, TheatreZone). She sends her endless love and gratitude to her husband, Kelly, for his unwavering support.
