The Jacksonville Symphony will open EMMA Concert Association’s 48th season of music and dance on Oct. 10 in St. Augustine. The concert series partners with Flagler College, presenting performances in Lewis Auditorium, the 800-seat venue at the college in the Nation’s Oldest City.
The season includes six performances from October through April 2027. Tickets are available at emmaconcerts.com
Here’s a look at the lineup for the 48th season:
Founded in 1949, the Jacksonville Symphony brings exceptional music to listeners in the community, across Florida and far beyond. Music Director Courtney Lewis takes his step on the conductor’s podium for his 10th season to lead some of the world’s finest musicians in performances that continue to reach new levels of artistic excellence.
The St. Augustine concert on Oct. 10 will include selections from Tchaikovsky’s “Swan Lake” and Dvorak’s “Slavonic Dances.”
Ocala Symphony Orchestra on Dec. 15
The Ocala Symphony Orchestra is a professional, community-based orchestra based in Ocala with a rich history dating back to 1975 when a group of musicians and civic leaders began organizing a symphonic ensemble for the area. It was granted nonprofit status in 1977. The Ocala Symphony is led by Maestro Matthew Wardell, who has been its music director and conductor since 2009. Wardell is also a respected educator and visiting artist at multiple universities.
The December 15 concert will include a mix of traditional and popular holiday tunes and a sing-along portion.
New York Philharmonic String Quartet on Jan. 16
The New York Philharmonic String Quartet comprises four principal musicians from the orchestra: Concertmaster Frank Huang, Principal Second Violin Group Qianqian Li, Principal Viola Cynthia Phelps and Principal Cello Carter Brey. The group was formed in January 2017, during the Philharmonic’s 175th anniversary season. All four members are multiple prize winners, have appeared as concerto soloists with the Philharmonic and orchestras around the world.
The January 16 concert may feature a mix of classical and romantic masters, include Mozart, Schubert, Mendelssohn, Brahms and Dvorak.
South Carolina Ballet — “Sleeping Beauty” on Jan. 23
Founded in 1961 as Columbia City Ballet, South Carolina Ballet is the state’s leading professional ballet company, presenting performances, educational programs and community initiatives that reach audiences across South Carolina and the Southeast. One of ballet’s most celebrated masterpieces, “Sleeping Beauty” embodies the elegance, beauty and technical brilliance of the classical art form. One of South Carolina Ballet’s most enduring productions, it was first staged by the company in 1966 and reimagined by William Starrett in 1996, remaining a cornerstone of the company’s classical repertoire. Set to Tchaikovsky’s magnificent score, this glorious production offers audiences a grand and unforgettable ballet experience.
In addition to the performance, the company will teach a master class at a St. Augustine dance school prior to the performance.
Orchestra Manhattan on March 7
Orchestra Manhattan, with Gerard Schwarz conducting, is a newly formed orchestra consisting of top players from all over the New York-New Jersey area, which tours worldwide. The internationally acclaimed conductor is renowned for his emotionally compelling performances, innovative programming and dedication to music education. He currently serves as music director of the All-Star Orchestra, Palm Beach Symphony and Frost Symphony Orchestra. Schwarz has premiered more than 300 new works and is a passionate advocate for American composers, with recent long-form commissioning projects that extend beyond a single institution.
Young pianist
Also, 11-year-old pianist Amelia Ly will perform in St. Augustine. A student at Vanderbilt University Blair School of Music since age 8, Ly has traveled the globe performing with orchestras, including the Lviv National Philharmonic in Ukraine and performed Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 2 in its entirety, receiving a standing ovation.
Tommy Dorsey Orchestra on April 24
Tommy Dorsey was unsurpassed as a bandleader during The Swing Era of American popular music. From 1935 to 1956 the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra was recognized as the greatest dance band. Today’s Tommy Dorsey Orchestra continues this great tradition for audiences worldwide, and fans of all ages.
More details and ticket information can be found at emmaconcerts.com.
