Opening Night Classical Concert: EARTH

Sunday, August 11 – 7:30 PM
Tower Theatre, Bend
Festival Orchestra
Brett Mitchell, conductor
Orion Weiss, piano

IVES (arr. Schuman)  Variations on “America”
GERSHWIN  Rhapsody in Blue
BEETHOVEN  Symphony No. 6, “Pastoral”

The Festival season opener celebrates two landmark anniversaries: Charles Ives’ 150^th birthday and his brilliant Variations on America, plus the 100^th anniversary of George Gershwin’s immortal Rhapsody in Blue with pianist Orion Weiss. After intermission, Beethoven’s “Pastoral” Symphony is a musical depiction of five scenes in nature.

One of the most sought-after soloists of his generation, Orion Weiss is widely regarded as a “brilliant pianist” (The New York Times) with “powerful technique and exceptional insight” (The Washington Post). With a warmth to his playing that outwardly reflects his engaging personality, he has dazzled audiences with his passionate, lush sound and has performed with dozens of orchestras across North America.

6:30-7 PM – Pre-Concert Talk

Tickets start at $45; age 25 & under $25

Tickets for top-tier members go on sale as early as April 1; ticket sales for the public open June 1.  |  more info on memberships