Peoria Symphony Orchestra Season Preview

Untitled-1Welcome to the 119th season of the Peoria Symphony Orchestra – the fourteenth oldest symphony orchestra in the United States. We are proud of our musical heritage and the diverse mix of music we have been providing to symphony lovers in Peoria and all throughout central Illinois.

Ramsey Lewis Quartet and the PSO, Saturday September 17

The PSO‘s 119th season opener brings together the legendary three-time Grammy Award winning pianist Ramsey Lewis, the Ramsey Lewis Jazz Quartet, and the PSO for an evening of jazz, featuring his Concerto for Jazz Trio and Orchestra.  Chicagoan Lewis has released over 80 recordings and is the artistic director of Jazz at Ravinia Festival. With a Midas touch in reaching a wide audience and a career spanning decades he continues to inspire millions with his music.

Prodigies Saturday, October 22

In a program featuring the music of three famous prodigies, Mendelssohn, Mozart, and Beethoven, the PSO also welcomes piano prodigy Harmony Zhu for her debut with the Peoria Symphony Orchestra.

Russian Masters Saturday, November 19

The PSO continues its Great Cities Series with music from Moscow in Russian Masters. The program includes Glinka’s Ruslan and Ludmilla Overture, Shostakovich’s Cello Concerto No. 1, and Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 4.

Gershwin Matinee Sunday, January 22

Bring the whole family for a visit to 1920s America! The PSO and Classical Kids Live present an energetic musical revue of the life and music of George Gershwin, followed by two of his most beloved works, Rhapsody in Blue and An American in Paris .

Romance Saturday February 11

Two-time Grammy Award winner, Broadway and opera vocalist, Sylvia McNair, teams up with renowned pianist Kevin Cole. They join the PSO for music from the American Songbook, including Gershwin, Porter, Bernstein, and  Sondheim.

Nights in the Gardens of Spain Saturday, March 11

The rich, romantic music of Spain, beckons you. Experience the passion as acclaimed pianist, Jorge Federico Osorio returns to the PSO in triumph.

Heroic Spirit  Saturday, April 28

This program features two of the greatest works of musical history – Johannes Brahms’ soaring Violin Concerto and Ludwig van Beethoven’s passionate, monumental Symphony No. 3. The thrilling violin virtuoso, Arnaud Sussmann makes his PSO debut in the Brahms.

Jubilation!  Saturday, June 3

A Baroque celebration! Bach, Handel, and Vivaldi bring joy through their inspiring, bright music! Join us in celebrating the kick off to our 120th Anniversary season.

For tickets or more information, please visit www.peoriasymphony.org.