Under the baton of Maestro Gerardo Edelstein, the Williamsport Symphony Orchestra will present a program for their final concert of the 2022-23 season that promises to be an unforgettable experience for classical music lovers, featuring majestic orchestrations by Russian composers Prokofiev and Tchaikovsky, at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 16, at the Community Arts Center, 220 W. Fourth St.

“Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the breathtaking finale of our concert season,” said Hind Jabbour, WSO Director of Operations. “This is a truly exceptional performance that will leave you spellbound, as our talented musicians pour their hearts and souls into the music. As the Director of Operations for the Williamsport Symphony, I wholeheartedly encourage you to come and experience the magic of live orchestral music for yourself. You won’t regret it!”

The concert will feature Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 5, one of the most beloved and recognizable works in the classical music canon. Composed in 1888, the symphony is a deeply emotional and powerful piece that showcases Tchaikovsky’s masterful orchestration and melodic gifts.

The symphony is known for its richly expressive themes, including the famous horn solo in the second movement, and the triumphant finale that leaves audiences feeling uplifted and inspired.

“Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 5 is one of the most popular symphonies of the nineteenth century and was inspired in part by Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5 more than 80 years before,” Edelstein said. “Both pieces have a ‘fate theme’ that recurs throughout the piece. We do feature a major symphonic work at the end of every season.”

In addition, the program will highlight the extraordinary talent of pianist Melody Quah, who will perform Prokofiev’s Piano Concerto No. 3, a famously difficult piece characterized by its virtuosic piano writing, rhythmic drive, and sharp harmonic language.

“We are delighted to have Melody Quah, a very accomplished pianist playing the concerto with us,” Edelstein said.

Composed in 1921 by Prokofiev while the composer lived in Paris, Piano Concerto No. 3 is known for its hauntingly beautiful second movement, which features a lyrical melody that contrasts with the explosive outer movements.

The concert will open with a colorful classical work “Huapango” by Mexican composer José Pablo Moncayo.

“It is a composition influenced by the folk music collected in Alvarado, full of catchy rhythms and simple melodies,” Edelstein said.

Composed in 1941, this lively and colorful piece draws on the folk music traditions of Mexico and is a celebration of Mexican culture. It features a distinctive rhythm known as the “huapango” that is characteristic of the music of the Huasteca region. The piece is known for its exuberant energy and infectious melodies and has become a beloved part of the Mexican classical music repertoire.

Edelstein says music is always challenging no matter the piece or the composer; and for this performance, the Williamsport Symphony Orchestra is up for that challenge.

“Bringing music to life requires skills, dedication, passion, and commitment,” he said. “Playing different styles requires knowledge and experience. WSO possess all the qualifications to take the hardest musical task and turn it into something really beautiful that the audience can appreciate. Expect great joy, some dancing tunes, lush melodies, brilliant orchestrations, and piano virtuosity.”

Edelstein and the WSO hope to continue offering their audience the highest caliber performances in the area, as well as expand the number of concertgoers.

“We have had a fantastic season with great music, and this is the perfect way to close our season with some very exciting music,” he said. “Great tunes, a wonderful soloist, and an epic musical ending.”

“We offer special student and group rates on a regular basis; and for this concert, we would like to extend half off tickets to adults so everyone can experience the WSO,” Jabbour said. “Hope to see you at the concert!”