Drawing on themes of magic, ritual, and transformation, this program brings together a series of vividly imaginative works that showcase the orchestra’s expressive range. Dukas’s The Sorcerer’s Apprentice opens with playful virtuosity and narrative flair, while Bizet’s "Habanera" introduces a sultry, vocal presence featuring contralto Marissa Simmons. Rodrigo’s Concierto de Aranjuez, featuring guitarist Guido Sánchez Portuguez, provides a lyrical and deeply expressive centerpiece, blending intimacy with orchestral color. The ritualistic intensity of de Falla’s El amor brujo deepens the program’s sense of atmosphere and mysticism. The evening concludes with Mussorgsky’s Night on Bald Mountain, a work of unbridled energy and supernatural drama. Together, these pieces create a compelling arc, moving from charm to enchantment to a powerful and electrifying conclusion.
PROGRAM
Paul Dukas: The Sorcerer's Apprentice
Georges Bizet: "Habanera" from Carmen
Joaquín Rodrigo: Concierto de Aranjuez
Manuel de Falla: El amor brujo
Modest Mussorgsky: Night on Bald Mountain

Ian Hobson, music director and conductor
Guido Sánchez Portuguez, guitar
Marissa Simmons, contralto