As summer wanes, the San Francisco Symphony is being transformed into a celebratory space, showcasing elements of Mexican Día de los Muertos traditions. In past years, the production has included towering catrinas, colorful alebrijes and, of course, altars.

Much of the cross-cultural festivities are orchestrated by musician and teacher Martha Rodríguez Salazar. Through her work at the Community Music Center, the Symphony, and beyond, Rodríguez Salazar has become known as an “eminently bicultural” bridge builder, who helped infuse the Symphony with some Mexican culture.

This year’s altars are being installed Wednesday, Oct. 11 in preparation for the symphony’s event on Nov. 4, which will also include concerts with vocalist Eugenia León and conductor Alondra de la Parra. More details can be found here.