Madison Symphony Orchestra
Peter Rodgers
Christopher Taylor at the piano accompanying the Madison Symphony Orchestra.
Christopher Taylor at the piano accompanying the Madison Symphony Orchestra.
This program, titled “Primal Light,” begins with Resurrexit, a cinematic approach to the biblical story by modern composer (and EDM DJ!) Mason Bates. The centerpiece is César Franck’s Symphonic Variations, a lyrical showcase for piano and orchestra featuring UW-Madison professor of piano Christopher Taylor, hailed by The New York Times as “dazzlingly virtuosic.” The program culminates with Gustav Mahler’s monumental Symphony No. 2 (Resurrection). Madison-connected soloists Jeni Houser (soprano) — praised by Opera News as “commanding and duplicitous, yet also vulnerable” — and Grammy-nominated mezzo Emily Fons join the Madison Symphony Chorus under the direction of Beverly Taylor. With John DeMain conducting, it’s a lineup of extraordinary musicians deeply tied to Madison, performing some of the most profound music ever written. Performances at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 17-18 and 2:30 p.m. Oct. 19.
media release: The Madison Symphony Orchestra’s (MSO) 100th season continues this month with Primal Light, a concert exploring themes of transcendence, renewal and the human spirit. Performances take place on Oct. 17-19 in Overture Hall, conducted by Music Director John DeMain.
The concert opens with Resurrexit by Grammy Award-winning composer Mason Bates, a contemporary reflection on resurrection that blends vibrant orchestral color with cinematic energy. The program continues with César Franck’s Symphonic Variations, a lyrical dialogue between piano and orchestra featuring acclaimed pianist Christopher Taylor. The evening culminates with Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No. 2 (“Resurrection”) — an expansive and human exploration of struggle, hope and renewal.
Before each concert, retired MSO Trombonist and longtime MSO program note author Michael Allsen will present a free Prelude Talk one hour before the performance, offering engaging insights into the music and composers featured in Primal Light. In addition, Allsen will be in the Overture Hall lobby during intermission at all three concerts to sign copies of his newly released book, which chronicles the Madison Symphony Orchestra’s rich history and evolution. Proceeds from book sales will benefit the MSO.
The performance will feature pianist Christopher Taylor, soprano Jeni Houser, mezzo-soprano Emily Fons and the Madison Symphony Chorus under the direction of Beverly Taylor.
Christopher Taylor is celebrated for his imaginative artistry and masterful technique across a vast repertoire. A Steinway Artist and professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, he brings his signature intensity and intellect to Franck’s Symphonic Variations.
Jeni Houser has performed with opera companies and symphonies nationwide, including the Metropolitan Opera, Minnesota Opera and Opera Colorado. She brings brilliant vocal clarity to Mahler’s radiant final movement.
Internationally acclaimed for her expressive artistry and versatile voice, Emily Fons is a Madison favorite known for performances with Lyric Opera of Chicago, The Santa Fe Opera and major European houses. Her deep emotional range adds warmth and gravity to Mahler’s score.
Under Beverly Taylor’s leadership, the Madison Symphony Chorus has established itself as one of the region’s premier vocal ensembles. Their soaring voices anchor Mahler’s monumental “Resurrection” Symphony, providing a powerful and uplifting choral presence.
Single tickets for all concerts and events can be purchased through the Overture Center Box Office or online https://madisonsymphony.org/
The Madison Symphony Orchestra celebrates its 100th Anniversary season in 2025–2026. The MSO has grown to be one of America’s leading regional orchestras, providing Madison and south-central Wisconsin with cultural and educational opportunities to interact with great masterworks and top-tier guest artists from around the world. 2025–2026 marks John DeMain’s 32nd year and final season as Music Director. Learn more at madisonsymphony.org.
The Presenting Sponsor for “Primal Light” is Rosemarie and Fred Blancke. Major funding is provided by Marilyn Ebben, in memory of Jim Ebben, Larry and Jan Phelps, Martha and Charles Casey, and Robert and Linda Graebner. Additional funding is provided by Margaret Murphy, in memory of Howard Kidd, Rodney Schreiner and Mark Blank, and the Wisconsin Arts Board with funds from the State of Wisconsin and the National Endowment for the Arts. The Hamburg Steinway piano is the gift of Peter Livingston and Sharon Stark in memory of Magdalena Friedman. The Overture Concert Organ is the gift of Pleasant T. Rowland.
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