The Columbus Symphony Orchestra is pleased to present our season opening concert “Rachmaninoff Meets the New Piano” on Saturday, September 8, 2018.

Brilliant young American pianist, Claire Huangci, returns to christen the orchestra’s new Steinway concert grand piano with a performance of, what is often described as, one of the greatest piano concertos ever written, Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2. Singable melodies create a remarkable relationship between the orchestra and soloist in this piece. Brahms’ masterpiece rounds out the concert program. His fourth and final symphony represents a culmination of all the wisdom Brahms had cultivated throughout his career Soloist Claire Huangci states, "It is my intention to make music that stays in one’s memory not just because I had quick fingers but because it was so moving." Chopin’s music gave Claire Huangci her artistic breakthrough when she won first prize at the Chopin Competitions in Darmstadt and Miami. She has proved her great versatility with an unusually broad repertoire, which includes a large number of contemporary works. Claire Huangci began her international career at the age of nine becoming the youngest participant to receive second prize at the International ARD Music Competition in 2011. Only in her later teenage years did she finally feel that this instrument was to be her vocation.

“Rachmaninoff Meets the New Piano” is presented by Aflac, Troy Public Radio, Georgia Public Broadcasting, Boomer 102.5, 103.7 LiteFM, and the Columbus Marriott.

On Saturday, September 8th, we will have our Open Dress Rehearsal beginning at 12:30 PM. We encourage attendance from all members of the community, including those who are unable to attend
the evening concert or looking for a “behind-the-scenes” look into the ensemble. It is a great way to introduce young children to a live musical experience in a sensory-friendly environment. Continuing
the tradition, this informal and all-inclusive atmosphere is breaking the financial barrier by encouraging attendees to “pay what you want.” Audience members set their own prices to eliminate hesitation and allow new viewers to partake in the music being created by the CSO.

Join us for our free season opening reception at 6:00 PM in the RiverCenter lobby prior to the performance. Attend Know the Score at 6:30 PM in Studio Theatre. Know the Score is a casual preconcert conversation with Music Director and Conductor George Del Gobbo that provides insight into
the repertoire on the evening’s concert.

Tickets are $5 to $39 and may be purchased at the RiverCenter Box Office, Monday through Friday, 10 AM to 5:30 PM or one hour prior to the performance (enter doors located on Broadway). Student tickets are available for $10. Tickets for children (ages 5-12) are $5. For more information call the RiverCenter Box Office at 706.256.3612 or visit us online at www.csoga.org.