News Summary
The Virginia Symphony Orchestra (VSO) is set to launch its 104th season with a grand performance at the Ferguson Center for the Arts in Newport News. The event promises a captivating array of musical pieces, including ‘Pictures at an Exhibition’ and ‘Philharmonia Fantastique.’ With affordable ticket prices starting at $25, this is an excellent opportunity for families to enjoy live orchestral music. Additionally, the VSO will celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day with two free concerts, showcasing the legacy of Dr. King through inspiring performances. Join the celebration of music!
Newport News Gears Up for the Grand Opening of the Virginia Symphony Orchestra’s 104th Season!
The Virginia Symphony Orchestra (VSO) is all set to kick off its 104th season with a spectacular performance, and music lovers are in for a treat! On Friday evening, the VSO will take center stage at the Ferguson Center for the Arts at Christopher Newport University in Newport News at 7:30 p.m.. Get ready to embark on a remarkable musical journey as the orchestra performs the beloved “Pictures at an Exhibition,” a piece that invites listeners on an auditory stroll through an imaginative art gallery.
But that’s not all—concertgoers will also enjoy an array of other impressive works, including the adventurous “Philharmonia Fantastique” and the uplifting “Fanfare for Uncommon Times.” With tickets starting at just $25, this is a fantastic opportunity for families and friends to come together and experience the magic of live orchestral music! Tickets can be snagged at virginiasymphony.org.
Celebrate MLK Jr. Day with Inspiring Music
In a beautiful nod to Martin Luther King Jr. Day, the Virginia Symphony Orchestra will host not one, but two FREE concerts to honor the legacy of Dr. King. The first concert is slated for Sunday at 7 p.m. at Norfolk’s Harrison Opera House, and it’s already fully booked! For those still wanting to join, a second performance will take place on Tuesday night at I.C. Norcom High School in Portsmouth, and tickets are still available.
These special performances will feature powerful pieces that shine a spotlight on Dr. King’s enduring impact on society while inspiring young musicians in the audience. This initiative has been a cherished tradition for the VSO for the last 13 years.
A Star-Studded Lineup Highlights Diversity
This year’s concerts promise to be especially enriching, showcasing the talent of African American composers, choirs, and musicians. One of the standout performances will be from acclaimed saxophonist Stephanie Sanders, who will present a jazz piece by the legendary Duke Ellington titled “3 Black Kings.” This piece notably includes a movement dedicated to Dr. King, making it a fitting tribute.
Sanders is also committed to nurturing the next generation of musicians as the Associate Director of Bands at Norfolk State University, where she focuses on teaching aspiring black musicians.
Exciting Changes in Leadership at VSO
In more exciting news, Grace Park has been appointed as the new concertmaster of the VSO, succeeding Vahn Armstrong. Park started playing the violin at the tender age of five and boasts an impressive musical education that includes studies at prestigious institutions like the Colburn School of Music and New England Conservatory. She captured the spotlight when she won the Walter W. Naumburg International Violin Competition in 2018.
Her debut performances as concertmaster are set for March 14 and 16. Park has exciting plans for the future, including launching a chamber music series featuring VSO musicians along with guest solo artists. She will perform on a remarkable 1717 Giuseppe Guarneri ‘filius Andreae’ violin, generously loaned by an anonymous sponsor. Plus, music fans can look forward to her debut solo album, set to be released in spring 2025, featuring works by renowned composers like Mozart and Dvořák.
Join the Celebration!
The Virginia Symphony Orchestra’s season opener and MLK Day concerts are sure to be inspiring events that bring together the community through the power of music. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of the symphony or new to the world of orchestral music, this season promises to resonate with everyone! Mark your calendars and don’t miss out on these exciting performances!
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Additional Resources
- Daily Press: Virginia Symphony Orchestra Kicks Off 104th Season
- WTKR: Virginia Symphony Orchestra to Host Free Concerts for MLK Jr. Day
- The Strad: Virginia Symphony Orchestra Appoints New Concertmaster
- Wikipedia: Virginia Symphony Orchestra
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Symphony Orchestra
Author: STAFF HERE WILLIAMSBURG WRITER
WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER The WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWilliamsburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Williamsburg, James City County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Williamsburg Farmers Market, Yorktown Market Days, and Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce and Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, plus leading businesses in education and hospitality that power the local economy such as College of William & Mary, The Williamsburg Winery, and Sodexo. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREVirginiaBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Virginia's dynamic landscape.
