East Texas Symphony Orchestra's Upcoming Season: A Harmony of Timeless Classics and Audience Favorites
As the East Texas Symphony Orchestra (ETSO) gears up for its upcoming season, music enthusiasts in Tyler, Texas, are in for a treat. From lively park performances to cherished classical symphonies, the ETSO's diverse lineup promises an unforgettable musical journey. The six-event series spans from August 2025 to March 2026, featuring talented conductors, musicians, and a variety of compositions that range from the rhythmically engaging works of ABBA to the profound symphonies of Beethoven. At the heart of these events lies a celebration of music’s enduring legacy and its ability to unite audiences through shared experiences.
The Swedish quartet is well-known for great songwriting, tight harmonies, and incorporating classical instruments in their songs. Other than the prominence of the piano, how can anyone perform Dancing Queen without violins, Chiquitita without a classical guitar, or Mamma Mia without a marimba? The ETSO comes to the rescue! Join us, along with Jeans n’ Classics – back after their triumphant Music of Queen show, for an evening of ABBA with the ETSO live!
Undoubtedly Mozart’s most well-known concerto, his 21st piano concerto has found new audiences through popular culture. Its slow movement has been used in a Bond film (The Spy who Loved Me) as well as a Swedish romantic drama, Elvira Madigan, from which it has gained its more familiar name. All of Mozart’s concertos require a very precise and subtle pianist. The ETSO is happy to welcome Misha Berestnev to interpret this deceptively challenging work. The remainder of the program consists of Tchaikovsky’s Mozartiana Suite, an homage to his favorite composer, as well as two works by Sibelius, including his stirring Finlandia.
It’s you, the audience, who will craft this program. Music Director Richard Lee will curate a concert made up entirely of works requested in our 2025 audience survey. You’ll hear a cross-section of many submissions, along with the story of what makes the piece special to the requester. It’s certain to be a n evening of fan favorites and new discoveries – all thanks to you.
Among, the brass instruments, the trumpet has a uniquely brilliant sound that immediately grabs the listener’s attention. Our principal trumpeter, James Sims, will demonstrate the instrument’s unique quality in the short but challenging Concerto in E-flat by Franz Joseph Haydn. Under the leadership of guest conductor Johannes Debus, the ETSO also brings life to Haydn’s “Farewell” Symphony and the second overture of Louise Farrenc. Concluding the concert is one of the most famous classical works in history: Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5.
Join us for this special concert celebrating the 90th anniversary of the orchestra’s first performance. That first concert, in 1936, took place at a time of great music, both classical and popular! The entire program consists of works composed in or debuted in 1936, and as you can well imagine, features a wide variety of styles, as well as a lot of American composers: George Gershwin, Cole Porter, Samuel Barber, and Aaron Copland. Join us for this celebration of the start and launch into the future of ETSO.
As the East Texas Symphony Orchestra embarks on its new season, it invites the community to experience the power and joy of orchestral music. With a blend of traditional classics and innovative programming, each event promises to delight audiences of all ages. This vibrant series not only showcases the extraordinary talent of its musicians and conductors but also celebrates the timeless connection between music and its listeners. Whether you’re a classical aficionado or a casual concertgoer, the ETSO's 2025–2026 season is an invitation to experience the wonder of music and its ability to bring people together.
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