George Mason University's Center for the Arts

Featuring the GMU Wind Symphony

Christopher Zimmerman, Conductor
Augustin Hadelich, violin
Free ConcerTalk at 7:00 p.m., Concert begins at 8:00 p.m.

On January 23rd, Zimmerman will pay homage to the anniversary year of Samuel Barber's birth, with Barber's Violin Concerto combined with Haydn's Symphony No. 92 and Sibelius' Symphony No. 1.  Zimmerman will give the pre-concert lectures for both the January and March concerts, and will write the program notes to explain his ideas and thoughts about Sibelius as a composer.  When asked why he chose Sibelius as the first composer for his mini-series, Zimmerman explained, "His music is other-worldly, modern, yet accessible.  It's quite challenging to play, and interesting to hear.  I am interested in exploring the atmosphere created by playing this music, particularly in counterpoint with the other pieces on the programs in January and March."

HAYDN: Symphony No. 92 Oxford
BARBER: Violin Concerto
Augustin Hadelich, violin
SIBELIUS: Symphony No. 1

Augustin Hadelich photo by Rosalie O'Connor

Stanley Curtis, trumpet
Tia Wortham, soprano
Ben Keseley, piano

The Band of the Irish Guards and Royal Regiment of Scotland brings all of the pomp and grandeur of the British Empire to the Center’s stage. A gifted group of musicians was gathered by Queen Victoria in 1900 to commemorate the bravery of the Irish Regiments, and quickly gained a reputation for excellence. It was the band’s responsibility to inspire an esprit de corps among the troops, and it traveled extensively throughout both World Wars to give morale-boosting performances for those on active service. Now renowned across the globe, these regiments uplift spirits with rousing marches, sailor ballads, and of course, folk songs from their native Ireland. This incredible ensemble is a delight for the whole family!

Single Tickets are on sale now!

Daniel Spalding
Music Director Finalist