As the house lights fade on Dr. Vickerman’s inaugural season, a single spotlight brightens to illuminate our very special guest artist for the afternoon, Sameer Gupta. One of the few percussionists in the world who is fluent in both American jazz and classical Indian music, Mr. Gupta’s unique musical sound combines traditional and modern improvisational styles. His prodigious skills on the Indian hand drums, or tabla, will be center stage he joins the Wind Symphony in performing Reena Esmail’s Chamak. The concert also features Jennifer Jolley’s poignant contemplation on the destruction of California wildfires, Ash, alongside the energetic and rhythmic Dancing Fire by Kevin Day. The concert concludes with Ida Gotkovsky’s epic masterpiece Poeme du Feu. Don’t miss it!

EPSG:4326

Fire / Light

Saratoga High School

In partnership with the International Trombone Festival and Texas Christian University, The FWSO’s season finale goes out with a blast, spotlighting the brass instruments of the orchestra. Music Director Robert Spano will lead the ensemble in a brand-new double concerto for trombone and piano by Texas Christian University alumnus Kevin Day as well as Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Jennifer Higdon’s river sings a song to trees. For the big finish: Mahler’s Symphony No. 5.

Season Finale: Jennifer Higdon, Kevin Day, and Mahler 5

Bass Performance Hall

This concert features five extraordinary artists, each celebrated for their virtuosity, and sought after for their performances around the world. Returning musicians include pianist Sterling Elliott, recipient of the Sphinx Organization’s 2024 Medal of Excellence and a 2021 Avery Fisher Career Grant recipient and cellist Nina Lee, a longtime member of the Brentano String Quartet. Debuting artists include Hungarian-Nicaraguan-American violinist Abigél Králik; Armenian-American violist Cara Pogossian, a current Masters student at the New England Conservatory; and American pianist Evren Ozel, the recipient of the 2023 Avery Fisher Career Grant.

Abigél Králik, violin, Cara Pogossian, viola, Sterling Elliott, cello, Nina Lee, cello, Evren Ozel, piano

Tippet Rise Art Center

**Season Debut: The Emperor - Des Moines Symphony**

Join us for an unforgettable evening as the Des Moines Symphony kicks off its season with "The Emperor" at the Des Moines Civic Center. This spectacular event promises to blend classical tradition with innovative spirit, showcasing the talents of renowned artists and the visionary leadership of Maestro Joseph Giunta.

**Date & Time:**
- Saturday, September 28, 2024, at 7:30 PM
- Sunday, September 29, 2024, at 2:30 PM

**Location:** Des Moines Civic Center

**Program Highlights:**
- **Kevin Day's "Lightspeed"** opens the concert with its kaleidoscopic textures and futuristic soundscapes, setting the stage for an evening of musical exploration.
- **Beethoven's Emperor Piano Concerto** featuring the acclaimed Olga Kern, who brings the bold spirit and profound depth of this masterpiece to life.
- **Bruckner's Symphony No. 7** in celebration of his 200th birthday, serving as a majestic finale that encapsulates the essence of the symphonic tradition.

**Performers:**
- **Joseph Giunta, Conductor** - Celebrated for his dynamic conducting and innovative programming, Maestro Giunta's leadership continues to elevate the Des Moines Symphony to new heights.
- **Olga Kern, Pianist** - Internationally renowned for her powerful performances and technical mastery, Kern's interpretation of Beethoven's Emperor is eagerly anticipated.

**Ticket Information:**
- Prices range from $20 to $80, with half-price tickets available for students.
- Duration: Approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes, including one intermission.

This event is not just a concert; it's a celebration of music's power to inspire and transform. The Season Debut: The Emperor is proudly presented as part of the Harriet S. and J. Locke Macomber Concert series, continuing the tradition of bringing exceptional musical experiences to the community.

Don't miss this opportunity to witness the Des Moines Symphony as it embarks on another season of outstanding performances. Secure your tickets today and be part of the magic that only live music can create.

Kevin Day

Events

May 19, 2024

Fire / Light · San Jose Wind Symphony

May 31 - Jun 2, 2024

Season Finale: Jennifer Higdon, Kevin Day, and Mahler 5 · Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra

Aug 31, 2024

Abigél Králik, violin, Cara Pogossian, viola, Sterling Elliott, cello, Nina Lee, cello, Evren Ozel, piano · Tippet Rise Art Center

28 - 29 Sep, 2024

Season Debut: The Emperor · Des Moines Symphony

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