Jeffrey Biegel, known for his thrilling piano performances and impressive artistry, will soon join the Glacier Symphony for Opening Night: American Rhapsody on Saturday, October 17 at 7:30 PM at the Wachholz College Center. This memorable performance will launch Season 44: America 250 & Masterworks, a dynamic celebration of both the nation’s historic anniversary and Maestro Zoltek’s 30th Season with Glacier Symphony Orchestra and Chorale (GSOC). Tickets can be purchased at glaciersymphony.org.
An energetic and spirited season-opener, American Rhapsody will begin with a contemporary piece entitled “Rhapsody in Red, White and Blue” commissioned by Jeffrey Biegel himself in 2024 as a centennial celebration of the iconic “Rhapsody in Blue.” By performing this piece, Glacier Symphony will join the ranks of orchestras participating in Biegel’s Rhapsody National Initiative, a major project wherein the piece will be performed in all 50 U.S. states by June of 2027. Following this premiere work by Peter Boyer, the evening will feature the famed “Rhapsody in Blue,” as well as Aaron Copland’s “Billy the Kid Suite” and selections from “Rodeo”.
Throughout the season, GSOC is excited to offer programming for audience members of all ages and interests. For those who enjoy Masterworks, a “trio” of instrumental soloists will grace the McClaren Hall stage in their respective concerts: the aforementioned Jeffrey Biegel on Opening Night; cellist Robert deMaine in Dvořák’s Cello and New World Symphony in November; and violinist Kinga Augustyn in Higdon, Barber and Brahms in April. GSOC will also debut a series of Kaleidoscope concerts for the whole family, with $25 seats anywhere in the hall! These include a Halloween Special, a Symphony Brass concert around Veterans Day, and a Jazz Fusion concert with the Maestro in February.
For holiday offerings, GSOC will once again present Handel’s Messiah and three performances of The Nutcracker with San Diego Ballet, as well as a new concert featuring the score of the 1980s British animated film, “The Snowman.” Following the holiday festivities will be the Symphony’s Winter Gala, themed “Evening in Vienna” — a fundraising event with fine classical music, dining, dancing, and a silent auction.
During the second half of the season, patrons can embark upon a romantic journey with a Valentine’s Day-themed concert, then traverse the high seas and stars above during the Hans Zimmer Movie Music Spectacular in March. And in the ultimate expression of celebration and unity, the season will end with Beethoven’s 9th Symphony, which concludes with one of the most famous and triumphant classical movements of all time, “Ode to Joy.”
This landmark season will no doubt bring delight to all ages during this important year, and Maestro John Zoltek is as enthusiastic as ever. “Now, in my 30th season milestone, it is my continued honor to artistically lead this fine organization and our dedicated and talented musicians. Our aim is to introduce, challenge, and emotionally uplift you into the thought-provoking riches and rewards of symphonic music and beyond!”