The Columbus Symphony Orchestra (CSO) is excited to announce their 2025-2026 Concert Season

Music Director and Conductor, George Del Gobbo commented, “There is nothing quite as exciting as the sound of a symphony orchestra in full flight. It is an experience that lifts the spirit and stirs the soul. Add a roster of prize-winning soloists, and you have the ingredients for a series of incredible musical experiences. From Beethoven and Tchaikovsky to the film scores of John Williams, join me and the talented musicians of the CSO for a season of unforgettable concerts.”

The CSO season begins on September 20 with “Tchaikovsky & Dvorak.”Violinist Bella Hristova returns for Dvořák’s deeply expressive Violin Concerto, a work that blends fiery passion with haunting lyricism. Brahms’ brooding Tragic Overture and Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 6, “Pathétique” bring the program to an emotional climax.

Experience the power and majesty of the organ with “The King of Instruments” in Legacy Hall on October 11. Organist Christopher Houlihanjoins the CSO for Strauss’ noble Feierlicher Einzug and Barber’s colorful Toccata Festiva. At intermission, enjoy a festive reception with hand-crafted desserts and drink pairings followed by Saint-Saens’ “Organ” Symphony No. 3.

On November 8, the CSO presents “Brahms & Mendelssohn” featuring beloved violinist SooBeen Lee as she returns for her third season to perform Mendelssohn’s elegant violin concerto. Florence Price’s Adoration for strings and Brahms’ noble Symphony No. 1 create an evening rich with introspection and soulful beauty.

Journey through luminous soundscapes and rustic beauty with Copland’s“Appalachian Spring” on January 31. Duo Amadeae—sisters Esther Park and Sun-A Park—bring their dazzling synchronicity and expressive touch to Poulenc’s spirited Concerto for Two Pianos in D Minor. With its radiant textures and ethereal sonorities, Aaron Jay Kernis’ Musica Celestis evokes a celestial realm suspended in sound

On February 14 at 12:30pm, the CSO is excited to present “The Orchestra Games: An Olympic Musical Adventure for Kids!” With the help of a narrator, this high-energy, family-friendly concert turns the symphony into a playful Olympic arena, where strings, brass, and woodwinds compete in musical challenges to win the gold. John Williams’ thrilling “The Flight to Neverland” from Hook and “Flying Theme” from E.T. bring this musical adventure full circle in an unforgettable symphonic showdown. 

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with the CSO on February 14 at 7:30pm with “Lights, Camera, Music! The Music of John Williams from the Films of Steven Spielberg.” From the sweeping drama of Saving Private Ryan and War Horse to the exhilarating thrills of Jurassic Park and Jaws, Williams’ music captures the heart of every story it touches. The program features unforgettable selections from Hook, E.T., Indiana Jones, Munich, Close Encounters of the Third Kind, and more!

“North VS South: The Battle of the Baroque” offers a thrilling musical showdown between Italy’s fiery virtuosity and England’s stately elegance on March 14 in Legacy Hall. The South blazes with the dazzling brilliance of Vivaldi, Corelli, and Torelli while the North counters with the regal splendor of Handel’s Water Music. Between the musical duels, enjoy an extended intermission with a delightful reception, where the echoes of Baroque opulence linger in the air.

On April 18, the CSO presents an electrifying season finale “Three By Beethoven,” featuring the return of award-winning pianist Claire Huangci to perform Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 3.  The defiant Egmont Overture and Symphony No. 3 “Eroica” complete an incredible evening of drama, passion, and heroism celebrating of one of music’s most revolutionary figures.

To enhance the concert experience, the CSO offers an engaging pre-concert discussion with Maestro George Del Gobbo that gives insight into the composers and works being performed called Know the Score. Know the Score occurs at 6:30 PM in Studio Theatre directly before each Masterwork and Legacy Hall concert. Admission is included with the purchase of a concert ticket.

Season Ticket Subscriptions are currently on sale and can be purchased online, by mail, via phone at 706-256-3640, or in person at the RiverCenter Box Office, Monday through Friday, 10 AM to 5:30 PM (Broadway entrance) and Saturday 10 AM to 2 PM (at the external Broadway ticket window). Visit csoga.org/tickets to order ticket packages online or to print a mail-in form. Subscribers save 15% off the adult single ticket price, get first pick of the best seats, and avoid online ticketing fees. Renew your subscription by June 30, 2025 to keep your current seats. Single tickets will go on sale on August 5, 2025.

In addition to the evening performances, the CSO presents free, family-friendly Open Rehearsals beginning at 12:30 PM for MasterWorks concerts and 2:30 PM for Legacy Hall concerts (with the exception of The King of Instruments which begins at 12:30pm). We encourage attendance from all members of the community, including those who are unable to attend the evening concert or are interested in a “behind-the-scenes” look into the ensemble. It is a great way to introduce young children to a live musical experience. In this informal and all-inclusive atmosphere, audience members are given the option of “paying what they want” by providing a donation or attending for free. You set the price!