Madison Symphony Orchestra

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Lyodoh Kaneko

Philippe Bianconi behind a piece of art.

Philippe Bianconi

John DeMain brings his legendary conducting expertise to a night of Gershwin classics, a fitting culmination to the Madison Symphony Orchestra’s 99th season. DeMain leads the orchestra through Cuban Overture, a vibrant celebration of Caribbean rhythms, followed by Concerto in F featuring powerful guest pianist Philippe Bianconi. The evening closes with a stirring rendition of highlights from Porgy and Bess — a classic DeMain has conducted for more than 400 performances over the years — featuring  guest vocalists Michelle Johnson and Eric Greene, the Madison Symphony Chorus and a host of talented soloists. Shows at 7:30 p.m. on May 9-10 and 2:30 p.m. May 11.

media release: The Madison Symphony Orchestra (MSO) closes their exhilarating 99th season with a performance of “Gershwin!”, led by Music Director John DeMain. The season finale opens with Gershwin’s Cuban Overture, pulsing with Caribbean rhythms from dance music he fell in love with on a vacation to Havana. Beloved pianist Philippe Bianconi returns for his seventh appearance performing Gershwin’s masterpiece Concerto in F. Maestro John DeMain has conducted more than 400 performances of Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess throughout the world. He led a history-making production with the Houston Grand Opera, winning a Grammy Award, Tony Award, and France’s Grand Prix de Disque for the RCA recording. He brings Michelle Johnson, Eric Greene, and our Madison Symphony Chorus together to share his passion for this iconic work to close the season!

“Gershwin!” performances will take place on Friday, May 9 at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, May 10 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, May 11 at 2:30 p.m. in Overture Hall, 201 State Street.