The UC Davis Symphony Orchestra’s Nov. 23 concert is the centerpiece, of course, of the orchestra’s 50th-anniversary celebration.

But a free symposium and two free lectures also are planned, all featuring David Cairns, the Samuel Johnson Prize-winning author of Berlioz: The Making of an Artist 1803–1832 and Berlioz: Servitude and Greatness 1832–1869.

Here is the schedule of events for the orchestra’s Golden Jubilee Gala:

• Nov. 20—Illustrated lecture: “Berlioz en Italie.” 3:10 p.m., 115 Music Building.

• Nov. 21—Symposium Perspectives on the Philharmonic Society, with Cairns; D. Kern Holoman, professor and orchestra director; Hugh Macdonald; and Michael Steinberg. 4-6 p.m., lobby, Mondavi Center.

• Nov. 23—Concert: Chausson’s Poème for violin and orchestra, featuring Jorja Fleezanis; Brahms’ Symphony No. 4; and Beethoven’s Gloria, from Missa solemnis, featuring the orchestra, University Chorus and Alumni Chorus. 8 p.m., Jackson Hall, Mondavi Center. Tickets: (530) 754-2787 or (866) 754-2787, or www.mondaviarts.org.

• Nov. 24—Lecture: “Humor in Music.” 1:10 p.m. 115 Music Building.