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Emmy-award nominated composer, singer-songwriter, and pianist Ben Folds joins the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra for a night of exceptional performances. Widely regarded as one of the major musical influences of our generation, Folds’ enormous body of genre-bending music includes pop albums with Ben Folds Five, multiple solo albums, and numerous collaborative records. His latest album, 2023’s "What Matters Most", is a blend of piano-driven pop rock songs, while his 2015 "Concerto for Piano and Orchestra" soared to #1 on both the Billboard classical and classical crossover charts. For nearly two decades, Folds has performed with some of the world’s greatest symphony orchestras and currently serves as Artistic Advisor to the National Symphony Orchestra at the Kennedy Center.

Beethoven’s symphonies are revolutionary, genre-defining triumphs. The Third, originally titled “Bonaparte,” in dedication to Napoleon, creates a conquering storm that doesn’t resolve until the very end. Soloist Simone Lamsma returns for Max Bruch’s astonishingly beautiful and ultra-challenging First Violin Concerto and the CSO begins with Lili Boulanger’s introspective ode to spring.

Conductor Jaap van Zweden leads the CSO in Mahler’s colossal Sixth Symphony. From the first ominous beat of the strings, the work builds to shocking intensity, full of soaring melodies and towering brass, abruptly contrasted by profoundly sweet interludes. It’s all the drama you need. In time, Mahler’s whole heartfelt world becomes obliterated by cataclysmic hammerblows.

Best known for starring on Broadway in Wicked and Hamilton, and for her portrayal of Nina Rosario in the Tony Award-winning musical In the Heights, Broadway icon Mandy Gonzalez joins JMR and the Pops in a celebration of the Latine voices of Broadway, such as Lin-Manuel Miranda, Rita Moreno and Linda Ronstadt. Expect hits from In the Heights, Hamilton, Moana and many more!

Experience a night of unforgettable music with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra on May 3, 2025, at the Byers Theatre in Sandy Springs, US. Renowned for their dynamic performances and innovative programming, the orchestra will take the stage at 8:00 PM, promising an evening filled with the rich sounds of symphonic music. Don't miss the chance to see one of the United States' leading orchestras perform live. For a sneak peek of their captivating performances, visit their official YouTube channel. Secure your tickets now at Ticketmaster. For more information, visit the official website of the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra.

Recommended 6+ Run Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (including intermission)

Grieg’s Piano Concerto is a jewel that dazzles from every angle. One of the most famous and enjoyable works of all time, its radiant charms shine in the hands of pianist and former MAC Music Innovator Michelle Cann. Pops Principal Guest Conductor, Damon Gupton leads the CSO in a treasure trove of evocative works, from Dvořák's symphonic poem of Slavic mythology to Duke Ellington’s many hues.

The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever. – Jacques Cousteau

Visceral and soul-gripping, Verdi’s Requiem will rip your heart out and put it back together again. From its tender solo moments to the terrifying cries of the “Dies irae,” it’s a journey both fragile and powerful as the May Festival Chorus and Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra combine for this breathtaking Mass for the departed.