Salisbury Symphony: “A Night in Spain”

Omwake Dearborn Chapel, Catawba College 2300 W. Innes St., Salisbury, NC, United States

Embark on a musical adventure through the vibrant cultural landscape of Spain with “A Night in Spain.” This concert features a stunning array of pieces inspired by the rich traditions and diverse influences of Spanish music. The program opens with the lively and spirited Overture from The Barber of Seville, capturing the humor and wit of Rossini’s beloved opera. Next, we are treated to the romantic and evocative Concierto de Aranjuez for guitar and orchestra, a masterpiece by Joaquin Rodrigo that beautifully showcases the virtuosity of our guest artist, guitarist Meng Su. The second half of the concert takes us to the operatic world of Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro, set in the heart of Seville, and introduces us to the works of Juan Crisostomo Arriaga, often referred to as the “Spanish Mozart.” This concert promises an evening of passion, elegance, and the vibrant spirit of Spain, brought to life by Meng Su’s extraordinary talent and the Salisbury Symphony. Admission: Adults $15, Seniors $13, 21 and under $5

Salisbury Symphony: “The Barbarian Artist”

Keppel Auditorium 2300 W. Innes St. Robertson College-Community Center, Salisbury, NC, United States

Uncover the dramatic and subversive world of Shostakovich with “The Barbarian Artist,” a concert centered around his powerful Symphony No. 5. This piece is renowned for its complex layers of false patriotism and hidden political commentary, written during a time when the composer was under intense scrutiny by Stalin’s regime. The symphony’s finale quotes and unpublished sone about a “barbarian artist” whose work is mindlessly destroyed, a likely reference to the stifling censorship of the Soviet era. The program also features the overture to Mozart’s Don Giovanni, the story of a brutish and promiscuous man whose misdeeds ultimately lead to his dramatic downfall into hell. Adding to the evening’s intensity is Grieg’s iconic Piano Concerto in A minor, a work of great emotional depth and virtuosic brilliance, performed by the talented pianist Ying Li. This concert offers a profound exploration of music as a form of resistance and expression, showcasing the resilience of the human spirit in the face of oppression. Join us for a night of powerful music and historical intrigue, as we delve into the depths of artistic defiance and political subversion. Admission: Adults $15, Seniors $13, 21 and under $5, Balcony $1