The Summerville Orchestra (S.O.) opens its 20th season on September 29th and 30th with “Grieg and Gershwin” featuring the rousing sounds of George Gershwin's “An American in Paris” and Edvard Grieg's Piano Concerto in A minor, with guest artist Phillip Bush, a distinguished pianist from the University of South Carolina School of Music.
“What a perfect way to begin our 20th year!” said Music Director Wojciech Milewski. “Gershwin's iconic ‘An American in Paris' broke down so many barriers at its premiere and completely revolutionized the idea of a ‘modern concert experience.' The piece doesn't take itself too seriously and that must be celebrated. That joy, and that fun, is what we are all about and the full program is a beautiful balance. Grieg's alluring Piano Concerto is so rich and full of emotion, Offenbach's overture is so light and playful. It's such a diverse soundscape it reflects who we are and so it's a perfect way to begin our 20th year. I can't wait for you to join us for it!”
As part of the opening concert of its Platinum Jubilee 20th anniversary season, the S.O. welcomes special guest artist Bush, whose solo career has landed him on stages with Japan's Osaka Century Orchestra, the Cincinnati Symphony, the Houston Symphony and many others.
This year the orchestra is introducing Saturday matinees, along with its traditional Friday evening performances. An audience survey conducted last spring by the S.O. revealed an overwhelming support from concertgoers for a matinee option. Season ticket holder Ellen Hyatt expressed her enthusiasm. “Having the matinee option is marvelous! For those of us who prefer not to drive in the dark, rather than feeling anxious in our seats, we shall be patrons who are pleased to be in the present moment and immersed in the joy of music and the joie de vie the Summerville Orchestra offers us.”
Tickets for the S.O.'s first performance of the season are on sale now at summervilleorchestra.org/tickets. All subscription series concerts are held at the Summers Corner Performing Arts Center, 318 Gnarly Oak Lane, Summerville. The 2023-24 season is being sponsored by the Edgeworth Capital Group and “Grieg and Gershwin” is being sponsored by Harry and Ellen Dykeman for their 50th wedding anniversary.
For more information about the S.O., contact office@summervilleorchestra.org or (843) 873-5339.
