Too often, Sacramento’s faith community has joined together only in the wake of tragic events. From the fire bombings of 1999 to hate crimes perpetrated against Muslims, Sikhs, Christians and others, we have joined hands in standing up against hatred and bigotry.

This spring, however, we have an opportunity to join hands in peace and share in the wealth of cultures and communities.

On May 20, the Premier Orchestra of the Sacramento Youth Symphony conducted by Maestro Michael Neumann will present two performances of a concert entitled “Shalom-Salaam-Peace: Standing on Common Ground.” The concert will include music from “West Side Story” by Leonard Bernstein, “Fiddler on the Roof” by Jerry Bock, “Scheherazade” by Rimsky-Korsakov, “The Lord Bless You” and “Keep You” by Peter Lutkin and “America the Beautiful” by Samuel Ward.

Riad Abdel-Gawad, renowned Egyptian violinist and composer, will be the featured soloist and guest artist. He will join the orchestra in performing one of his original compositions.

The first concert will begin at 3 p.m., followed by a catered reception from 4 to 5 p.m. and a second concert from 5 to 6 p.m. Both performances will share the same program and reception.

The concert will be held at Congregation B’nai Israel, 3600 Riverside Blvd. Proceeds will enable Congregation B’nai Israel to fund additional community-wide concerts, speakers and educational programs.

Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for children under 13 and may be purchased online at cbi-sys.eventbrite.com or by contacting Sharon Gerber at (916) 448-2881 or sharongerber@sixdegreez.net .