Join us for a momentous start to the symphonic series of our 50th season featuring celebratory and jubilant pieces of music from some of history's greatest composers. The concert will kick off with the Overtures to Wagner's opera, Die Meistersinger von Nurnberg, and Rossini's opera, La gazza ladra. Die Meistersinger revolves around the many craftsmen and merchants of Nurnberg, who also happen to be gifted singers. The overture to the opera has always been a symphonic favorite for good reason. The piece is filled with flowing lyricism and a light-hearted tone echoing the joyous nature of the singing craftsmen of Nurnberg. Rossini's La gazza ladra tells of a maid who is nearly condemned for stealing a silver spoon. But, at the last second, it's revealed that the thief was actually a magpie that had been hiding items in the church tower. Though the opera has heavy and dramatic themes, the overture by contrast is light and energetic. The overture opens with two drum rolls, and the orchestra then introduces a vigorous march. Delicate themes are then introduced by the strings and the woodwinds. A stirring crescendo, a trademark of Rossini's overtures, marks the exciting climax.

The concert will then feature one of the true masterpieces of classical repertoire, Beethoven's Symphony No. 7. The piece is full of life and vigor and is a true joy to experience. Beethoven's masterwork is lively throughout and features vivacious melodies that are enthralling. The jubilant nature and cheerful emotion evoked throughout the symphony makes the work a delightful journey for musicians and audiences alike. This is truly an ideal work for our celebratory 50th season. It will be an afternoon to remember!

Concert Program to Include:

Overture to Die Meistersinger von Nurnberg (1868)   –––––   Richard Wagner

Overture to La gazza ladra (1817)   –––––   Gioachino Rossini

Symphony No. 7  (1813)   –––––   Ludwig van Beethoven