To Launch GBS Season

BRIDGEPORT — Beethoven’s most inspiring masterworks will be featured at the gala opening of the 2007-08 Greater Bridgeport Symphony (GBS) subscription concert series on Saturday, October 13. The performance, presenting the award-winning pianist Vanessa Perez in her debut engagement with the GBS orchestra, will also celebrate GBS Music Director Gustav Meier’s 36th year at the helm of the orchestra.

“Beethoven Blast!” will include Beethoven’s heroic Fidelio Overture and his monumental Symphony No. 5 in C minor. That symphony’s four-note opening motif appears frequently in popular culture — from rock music to film, television, and even on cell phone tones.

The charismatic Venezuelan-American virtuosa Vanessa Perez, who is hailed as “a spirited, hot-blooded pianist of considerable talent,” will be the featured guest soloist, performing Beethoven’s sublime Piano Concerto No. 1 in C Major.

The 8 pm performance will take place at Klein Auditorium, 910 Fairfield Avenue in Bridgeport. The facility is easily reached from all major routes, and free, attended parking is provided for Symphony patrons.

Concertgoers at the October 13 performance will be treated to a pre-concert program with a gifted young student ensemble in the inner lobby of the Klein at 7 pm.

Single tickets costs are $22 to $54; students under age 21 will be admitted at half-price in certain price categories, and discount rates are available for groups of ten or more.

For reservations, call the Greater Bridgeport Symphony Office at 203-576-0263 or buy online at BridgeportSymphony.org. The Klein Auditorium doors open for walk-up sales after 5 pm on the concert date.