Midori Named Guest Soloist

For WSO Season Finalé

WATERBURY — In a season already marked by radiant and magical performances including a brilliant world premiere, Waterbury Symphony Orchestra has saved the best for last.

On Saturday and Sunday, May 1-2, concert attendees will be in for a special treat: the brilliance and talent of world famous violinist Midori, fresh from her European tour. The event will close WSO’s “Year of the Violin,” a year marked by inventive and inspired repertoire and rave reviews. It will also offer a glimpse of the treats in store next year, when Artistic Director and Conductor Leif Bjaland will mark his tenth anniversary with WSO.

The program fits its setting, speaking to Waterbury’s Italian heritage as it opens with a spicy and spirited Rossini overture (The Thieving Magpie).

Guest artist Midori will adds the distinctly American flavor of John Adams’ Violin Concerto, paying tribute to last year’s Pulitzer Prize-winning composer and emphazing his prominence on the American music scene. According to Mr Adams, Violin Concerto is a challenging and complex piece that demands a performer of Midori’s superior skill, and in Midori, it has found the perfect match.

The program will close with Respighi’s bucolic and touching melodic portraits of his native city, The Pines of Rome and The Fountains of Rome.

The performances will be in Naugatuck Valley Community College’s Fine Arts Center, 750 Chase Parkway (follow signs from I-84 Exit 18). The performances will begin at 8:15 on Saturday and 3 pm Sunday. Midori and Maestro Bjaland will offer lectures, included with admission, 45 minutes prior to each performance.

Tickets are $30 and $60. 

For tickets and additional information contact WSO administrative director Virginia Baker at 203-574-4283.