BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) -- The start of Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra's 93rd season was celebrated with food and great music Saturday at Mechanics Bank Theater. Saturday's opening concert started at 5:30 p.m. and featured global award-winning violinist, Stella Chen. The Symphony has been bringing world-class talent and some of the world's greatest musical creations for more than 9 decades. "It really elevates our community," said Bakersfield Symphony executive director, Holly Arnold. "Many big cities don't have a symphony orchestra and here we have a beautiful symphony orchestra celebrating our 93rd season. So, it's really a gem in the community." The gala kicked off at 7 p.m. after the symphony concert at the convention center. Attendees got to sample foods representing the culture of composers and had a chance to win prizes. Proceeds from the gala go to the Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra, according to organizers.