This story is part of our March 2026 issue. To read the print version, click here.

Inside the historic Sacramento Memorial Auditorium, built in 1927 as a shining hallowed tribute to honor the region’s war dead, music is playing. From the balcony comes the light and airy refrain of a flute; aside the stage, a deep and resonant cello plays; and in the doorway, the rich and mellow tones of a bassoon can be heard.

Once this venerable hall was rocked by such bands as The Rolling Stones, The Beach Boys, the Eagles and Grateful Dead. But for several days in February, it was filled with music from 10 different musicians playing 10 different instruments from the Sacramento Philharmonic & Opera.

Each one accompanied a woman honored for Comstock’s 2026 Women in Leadership issue. The women, who come from the world of health care, technology, caretaking, public relations and other professions, arrived resplendent in gowns and formal pantsuits. As the music played, they danced, twirled, laughed and smiled.

Photographer Francisco Chavira used the stunning architectural features of the auditorium to capture the glamour of the women. The massive Grecian columns were illuminated in gold and purple to provide a colorful backdrop. Everyone involved had a wonderful time, excited as though they were going to an actual symphony.

“These things are just fun, to partner with such a renowned institution like Comstock’s magazine to do this and celebrate women leadership, flanked by musicians, professional musicians of the Philharmonic & Opera. It’s just fun. We always love kind of getting ourselves out there,” says CEO Giuliano Kornberg. To learn more about the Philharmonic, see Winnie’s letter in this issue.

We’ll be publishing one profile from the showcase on the Comstock’s website home page every weekday for the next two weeks. Check back daily to read more!

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View the list of honorees from 2015 through 2026.

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