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CSO Presents “North V.S. South”

Staff Report From Georgia CEO

Friday, February 13th, 2026

The Columbus Symphony Orchestra (CSO) will perform “North V.S. South” on March 14, 2026. The concert will begin at 7:30 PM in the Legacy Hall at the RiverCenter for the Performing Arts. Intermission includes a reception with wine and hand-crafted desserts by Custom Cake Studio. This concert is sponsored by Publix Charities. 

 

Music Director and Conductor, George Del Gobbo, comments, “Some people claim that the birth of Baroque music was in the south of Europe, in Italy, to be exact. After all, opera was born in Florence (not Alabama) and Naples (not Florida).  They say that the whole idea of Baroque-style music was an Italian concept. Others say, "Not so fast, paisano!"  It may have started down there, but it truly flowered in Northern Europe, i.e., Bach, Handel, and the boys. This concert will present the case to you.  Listen to pieces from both places and make your choice. (Please note:  there is only one correct answer.)”

The evening opens with Vivaldi’s Concerto for Strings in C Major, RV 119, a bright and spirited work bursting with energy and vitality. Its lively rhythms, sparkling textures, and joyful momentum set an invigorating tone, drawing listeners into the vibrant world of the Baroque era with elegance and exuberance.

Next comes Marcello’s Concerto for Oboe and Strings in C Minor, featuring oboist Erica Howard. A deeply expressive and lyrical masterpiece that showcases the oboe’s warm, singing voice. Rich in emotional depth and graceful ornamentation, this beloved concerto unfolds with poignant beauty, offering moments of introspection, tenderness, and soulful resonance.

The program continues with Corelli’s Concerto Grosso, Op. 6, No. 8 (Christmas), a festive and pastoral work steeped in warmth and tradition. Alternating between lively dances and gentle, flowing melodies, its serene closing movement evokes the calm and wonder of a peaceful winter night, capturing the spirit of the season with timeless charm.

The evening concludes with Handel’s Water Music, Suite No. 1, a majestic and celebratory collection of dances brimming with grandeur and brilliance. From stately processions to buoyant, joyful themes, this iconic suite brings the concert to a triumphant close, radiating splendor, elegance, and infectious delight.

On Saturday, March 14, the CSO will present an Open Dress Rehearsal beginning at 2:30 PM. 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! 
 
To enhance the concert experience, the CSO offers a 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 the concert, and admission is included with the purchase of a concert ticket.
 
Tickets can be purchased online at csoga.org/tickets or in person at the RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, located at 900 Broadway, Columbus, GA. Monday through Friday, 10 AM to 3:00 PM (Broadway entrance), and two hours prior to ticketed events.  Single ticket prices range from $10-$42. Senior, military, educator, and student discounts are available in person or by calling 706-256-3612. Children ages 4 and under are not admitted to the concert but are encouraged to attend Open Dress Rehearsals.