Classic Series
It’s a season of all-time winners. We’re doing the musical equivalent of Leonardo’s Mona Lisa, Michelangelo’s David, and Monet’s Water Lillies, all in the same season. Second, it’s filled with “oh-my-god” moments: there’s no music that delivers those feelings like the Verdi Requiem and the Mahler Resurrection Symphony. Third, it’s programming with an eye toward beauty and grace—the Schubert Fifth; Vaughan Williams The Lark Ascending; and Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto. And finally, it’s got a jolt of espresso everywhere you turn, with the American energy of Bernstein’s Candide; the folk styles of Florence Price and Wiliam Grant Still; and Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue, in the incomparable hands of Theron Brown.
Classic Series Schedule
Rachmaninoff’s 2nd Piano Concerto
E.J. Thomas Hall 198 Hill Street, Akron, OH, United StatesExperience the profound beauty of Rachmaninoff's 2nd Piano Concerto, one of the most celebrated works in the classical repertoire, at EJ Thomas Hall on September 21 at 7:30 pm. Featuring pianist Gabriela Martínez, whose passionate and virtuosic performance promises to bring Rachmaninoff's rich harmonies and sweeping melodies to life.
The Planets
E.J. Thomas Hall 198 Hill Street, Akron, OH, United StatesJoin us at EJ Thomas Hall on October 19 at 7:30 pm for a performance of Holst's The Planets, featuring the Akron Symphony Chorus. This iconic orchestral suite takes listeners on a musical journey through the solar system, with each movement representing a different planet, portrayed as their own unique emotion. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience one of classical music’s most imaginative works live.
The Lark Ascending & Schubert’s Fifth
E.J. Thomas Hall 198 Hill Street, Akron, OH, United StatesExperience the serene beauty of Vaughan Williams' The Lark Ascending, a lyrical tribute to the English countryside, alongside Schubert's Fifth Symphony, a light and joyful work inspired by Mozart. With the Akron Symphony Chorus, this concert offers a perfect blend of pastoral elegance and classical charm.
Rhapsody In Blue with Theron Brown
E.J. Thomas Hall 198 Hill Street, Akron, OH, United StatesYou won't want to miss this once-in-a-lifetime performance of Rhapsody in Blue, with local Jazz virtuoso Theron Brown at E.J. Thomas Hall, joined by members of the Gospel Meets Symphony Choir. Come see Gershwin's acclaimed piano masterpiece and celebrate 100 years of Rhapsody In Blue with the Akron Symphony Orchestra.
Mahler’s “Resurrection” Symphony
E.J. Thomas Hall 198 Hill Street, Akron, OH, United StatesPrepare to be moved by the Akron Symphony's powerful performance of Mahler's Symphony No. 2, "Resurrection." This monumental work, renowned for its exploration of life, death, and the afterlife, will feature the stunning voices of soprano Sonya Headlam and alto Amanda Lynn Bottoms, alongside the Akron Symphony Chorus. Experience a profound musical journey that transcends the ordinary!
Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto & Beethoven’s First
E.J. Thomas Hall 198 Hill Street, Akron, OH, United StatesClarinetist Amer Hasan will bring Mozart’s lyrical and virtuosic concerto to life, showcasing the instrument's rich tones and expressive range. The program will also feature the elegant and spirited sounds of Beethoven's First Symphony, a work that marks the composer’s early genius. With the exquisite voice of soprano Sirgourney Cook adding depth to the performance, this concert promises to be a captivating celebration of classical music.
Verdi’s Requiem
E.J. Thomas Hall 198 Hill Street, Akron, OH, United StatesExperience the stirring and soaring musical tour de force known as Verdi's Requiem. Joined by the Akron Symphony Chorus, this emotionally moving masterpiece is fueled by contrasting moments of beautiful melodies and intense musical peaks. Only a work of this magnitude could fill the role as our 2024/25 season finale.