October kicks off the 2023-2024 Ocala Symphony Orchestra season.
Written By Cynthia McFarland
Having become a cherished area tradition since its launch in 1975, the Ocala Symphony Orchestra continues to deliver outstanding live music events. The upcoming season promises to be one of the best yet.
“I think every season gets better and better with the choice of musical experiences,” says Savannah Silliman, marketing manager of the Reilly Arts Center, home of the Ocala Symphony. “The diversity of the programming is stellar this season.”
Photo courtesy of Ocala Symphony Orchestra
Not only does the coming season include world premiere pieces and internationally known guest artists, but there will also be pieces by living composers. Guests can enjoy not one, but three multi-media performances.
The 2023-2024 season is Maestro Matthew Wardell’s 15th year with the Ocala Symphony. As music director and conductor, he has assembled an impressive schedule for his 15th anniversary year.
“We have a great variety of new things happening this season,” says Maestro Wardell. “Every concert has something exciting—from guest artists to world premieres.”
The season opens on October 21 and 22 featuring Mahler’s famous Symphony No. 1 and the world premiere of Breath of Life by Gainesville composer Paul Richards, who will be in attendance at the concert.
Early December brings an abundance of cheer with the symphony’s annual concerts, Pops! Goes the Holidays and the free Symphony Under the Lights. The free event is a musical gift to the community from the Ocala Symphony and members of the Ocala Youth Symphony. Held outdoors at Tuscawilla Park, it’s a favorite Ocala holiday celebration.
To kick off the new year the Ocala Symphony will perform the 1923 classic The Hunchback of Notre Dame, accompanied by an original score composed by Maestro Wardell and Brad DeLoatche.
January’s performances of Hungarian Pictures features principal guest conductor Raymond Chobaz with iconic works by Hungarian and Romanian composers. To expand the concert experience, the orchestra will offer a Hungarian-themed pre-concert dinner on Saturday and post-concert dinner on Sunday.
From subscription concerts to special events, the upcoming season runs into April 2024 and promises memorable experiences for all ages.
For a complete calendar of the 2023-2024 season, visit reillyartscenter.com/oso-events. Season subscribers save significantly on tickets and enjoy exclusive loyalty perks, including priority seating. Tickets are on sale now at ocalasymphony.com and prices range from $10 for students to $15 to $40 for adults.
Reilly Arts Center
500 NE 9th Street, Ocala
(352) 351-1606