CONTRIBUTED CONTENT — The Southwest Symphony has announced their concert lineup for the forthcoming 2023-2024 season. This fascinating and diverse series of performances will explore everything from centuries-old masterpieces to contemporary compositions.
“This season holds something for everyone, so come enjoy the power of live music with us,” music director Lucas Darger said.
Originally assembled as a handful of local musicians seeking a venue for sharing classical music with the community, the Southwest Symphony is now an auditioned group of about 80 professional and skilled amateur performers. Alongside renowned guest soloists, the passionate musicians and staff work tirelessly to produce quality concerts every season.
Symphonic September
Join the Southwest Symphony for an unforgettable evening of classical music on Sept. 22 as they present Saint-Saëns’ extraordinary “Organ Symphony” along with Shostakovich’s powerful Cello Concerto No. 1, which will feature Ka-Wai Yu. A member of the music department at Utah Tech University, Yu is an internationally renowned concert cellist, music educator and scholar. Experience the soaring melodies and intricate harmonies of these two beloved compositions, performed with passion and skill by local musicians.
Halloween Spooktacular
Prepare to be transported into a magical world of enchantment and adventure with this year’s edition of the Halloween Spooktacular, a family favorite and Southwest Symphony tradition, on Oct. 27-28. Following the theme of “Once Upon a Symphony,” audiences will be immersed in a mesmerizing blend of classical and modern compositions, from Tchaikovsky’s “Swan Lake” and “Sleeping Beauty” to Disney’s “Aladdin” and “Beauty and the Beast.” Music lovers of all ages will enjoy this evening full of happily ever after!
Handel’s “Messiah”
Christmas in Southern Utah wouldn’t be the same without the Southwest Symphony’s beloved annual performance of “Messiah” on Dec. 8-9. Featuring breathtaking solos and soaring choruses, this masterpiece tells the story of the birth, life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ through music. Experience the timeless majesty of one of the greatest Western classical works as the orchestra and the Lieto Voices! community choir bring Handel’s rich score to life.
American Voices
Get ready for two unforgettable nights, on March 1-2, that will commemorate the 100th anniversary of Gershwin’s iconic “Rhapsody in Blue” featuring renowned pianist and Grammy-winning recording artist Jeffrey Biegel. Audiences will be among the first to hear Peter Boyer’s new composition “Rhapsody in Red, White and Blue,” which celebrates the history and spirit of the United States through a blend of contemporary and traditional styles. This historic concert, part of a premier tour that encompasses all 50 states, promises to be a true celebration of American music.
Pictures at an Exhibition
Experience the exquisite beauty and thrilling power of Russian classical music on April 5. Audiences will be enthralled by the majestic and evocative sounds of Borodin’s “In the Steppes of Central Asia” along with Mussorgsky’s dynamic, emotionally charged “Pictures at an Exhibition.” The concert also features the Southwest Symphony’s 2024 Young Artist Competition gold medalist and promises to be an unforgettable experience for all music lovers.
Aretha: A Tribute
The legendary songbook of the Queen of Soul will come to life during the season finale on May 3 and 4. The Southwest Symphony will be joined onstage by acclaimed vocalist and Broadway star Capathia Jenkins as well as soul musician Ryan Shaw, a three-time Grammy nominee, for electrifying performances of Aretha Franklin’s greatest hits. This unforgettable evening of music will have you dancing in your seat and singing along to the timeless classics that have defined a generation.
Don’t miss your chance to be swept away by the power and beauty of live orchestral music during the Southwest Symphony’s 43rd performance season. Season ticket packages are now available for $125, a 45% early-bird discount. Individual ticket sales start Aug. 1, and many performances are expected to sell out.
Concerts are held at the Cox Performing Arts Center in St. George. Prices range between $15.50 and $38 depending on the section. Tickets may be purchased online or by calling the Utah Tech University ticket office at 435-652-7800.
Visit the Southwest Symphony website for more details on the upcoming season and to learn how your support helps advance the performing arts in Southern Utah.
Written by ALEXA MORGAN for St. George News.
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Resources
- Southwest Symphony | Telephone: 435-767-9800 | Email: [email protected] | Website.
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