The Wheeling Symphony Orchestra celebrates its 87th Anniversary Season with a thrilling opening night concert, “From Russia with Love,” this Thursday, Sept. 22, at 7:30 p.m. Guest artist cello soloist Julie Albers joins the orchestra performing Tchaikovsky’s “Variations on a Rococo Theme” at the historic Capitol Theatre under the baton of WSO music director and conductor Andre Raphel.
“The Opening Night program juxtaposes works of great wit, elegance and power. Rossini’s ‘La Gazza Ladra (The Thieving Magpie) Overture’ makes a sparkling curtain raiser and Shostakovich’s ‘Fifth Symphony’ is especially gripping. It’s a testament to the composers represented that along with Tchaikovsky’s ‘Rococo Variations,’ these pieces have become some of the most beloved works ever written,” Raphel said.
For 87 years, the WSO has provided live orchestral music to the Ohio Valley. The upcoming season’s program selections were chosen specifically to make the concert experience enjoyable and accessible to the entire family. The WSO is grateful to United Bank for its concert sponsorship.
“Opening Night sets the stage for the season. Maestro Raphel’s programming will give us a memorable concert with the high caliber of music we’ve all come to expect from great WSO performances,” said WSO Executive Director Bruce Wheeler.
Make an evening of it! Join the WSO family for a pre-concert dinner beginning 6 p.m. in the Capitol Theatre Ballroom catered by Rocco Basil. The dinner is $25 per person and features Beef Stroganoff & Herb Crusted Chicken with assorted sides and dessert. For tickets and dinner call 304-232-6191 or click here.
The WSO will also host Concert Talk, which provides insights to the performance and give attendees the opportunity to meet Julie Albers beforehand. Concert Talk, also in the Ballroom, begins at 7 p.m. and is free and open to the public.
See you at the Symphony!