Serenades and Symphonies to Open Arizona Philharmonic’s Sixth Season

By Henry Flurry

Arizona

Philharmonic (AZ Phil)

welcomes world-renowned conductor Maestro Peter Bay back to the stage to begin its sixth season, which features six compelling performances. Bay will be leading the full orchestra in Serenades and Symphonies on Sept. 10 at the intimate Ruth Street Theater, featuring Beethoven, Dvořák and Martinů.

Beethoven’s Fourth Symphony showcases Beethoven’s mastery of classical form, while hinting at the more daring and innovative Romantic expression that would come to define his later works. Dvořák’s Serenade for Winds, Cello and Bass showcases much of Arizona Philharmonic’s wind section in a colorful work of lyricism and Czech rhythms. Martinů’s lively Sinfonietta La Jolla evokes the spirit of the sun-drenched Californian shores. We are excited to present these diverse and exciting works in the exquisite acoustic environment of the Ruth Street Theater, located on the Prescott High School grounds. Season tickets are on sale through Sept. 10, offering 20% savings for the full season and 10% savings with Pick 3. Visit AZPhil.org for tickets and information.

The Nov. 19 concert welcomes back the Sonoran Winds Quintet, composed of Arizona Philharmonic’s five principal woodwind players, returning to the stage for another captivating performance. Featuring rich, melodic and lively classical works of Reicha, Muczynski, Rubtsov and Farkas, this concert offers a beautiful variety of colors and rich harmonies presented with both virtuosity and lyricism.

On Dec. 17, experience the wonder and hope of the holidays as Arizona Philharmonic presents We Wish You Christmas, featuring the beautiful vocal stylings of three esteemed Arizona sopranos, accompanied by Arizona Philharmonic chamber musicians. This unique ensemble brings back some favorites of the sold-out 2021 performances and celebrates other Christmas tunes in new settings. No holiday season is complete without the music that excites the senses and warms the heart.

The Jan. 7 concert introduces Pia-