From a press release:
In 1991, Dr. Gail Kettlewell, Provost of Northern Virginia Community College, had a vision for a new orchestra in Manassas and Prince William County. This orchestra, originally called the NOVA-Manassas Community Orchestra, began performing at Grace United Methodist Church in 1992. Over the years the orchestra has grown in both size and stature. In 2010, the ensemble moved into its new home in the Hylton Performing Arts Center, and was renamed the Manassas Symphony Orchestra in 2011.
In 2015, the MSO, under the direction of Music Director James Villani, was recognized as the winner of The American Prize for Orchestra Performance, Community Orchestra Division, and is now recognized as among the best volunteer orchestras in the country. To celebrate its 25 years of service to the community, the 2017-2018 Subscription Concert Season will feature some of the favorite pieces and soloists from past concerts, as well as pieces that they have not played before.
The MSO kicks off its Silver Anniversary Season on Saturday, October 28, 2017, 7:30PM with Silver Celebration featuring the return of fellow American Prize-winning piano soloist Anthony Michael Cornet performing American composer Edward MacDowell’s distinctive Piano Concerto No. 2. Mr. Cornet last performed with the MSO in 2015. The concert concludes with Ludwig van Beethoven’s blissful Symphony No. 7 which was previously performed by the MSO way back in 2003.
The MSO welcomes the holiday season on Saturday, December 2, 2017, at 4:30PM performing Silver Passport. The concert is right after the Manassas Christmas Parade and is the MSO’s fifteenth annual family concert. The afternoon features music from around the world and highlights high school senior trumpet whiz Connor Anderson. The orchestra will also present the premier of a new work by local composer Ben Bernstein based on author Bob Staake’s brand new children’s book, The Book of Gold. The concert includes seasonal favorites and closes with the return of our exclusive synchronized holiday music and light show!
The celebratory season continues on Saturday, March 3, 2018, 7:30PM with Silver Jewels.
Pianist Carlos Ibay is the featured soloist playing Piotr Tchaikovsky’s gorgeous Piano Concerto No. 1 in B-flat minor. Mr. Ibay last performed with the orchestra in 2000. The evening is capped off by AntonĂn Dvo?ák’s tragically beautiful Symphony No. 7.The MSO concludes its anniversary celebration and looks to the future with an all-Russian program on Saturday, May 12, 2018, 7:30PM, performing Russian Silver. Local high school students join the MSO to present a repeat performance of Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov’s magical Scheherazade. The orchestra last performed this magnificent piece in 2007. Internationally-acclaimed Steinway Artist Agnes Wan is the concert’s highlighted soloist, playing Sergei Rachmaninoff’s Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini.
Season subscriptions and individual concert tickets are available from the Hylton Center Box Office or by calling 888-945-2468. All children and student tickets (through college) are free.
The Manassas Symphony is the winner of the 2015 American Prize for Orchestral Performance, Community Division and is a Resident Arts Partner of the Hylton Performing Arts Center in Manassas. The all-volunteer orchestra plays five concerts a year and is involved with many educational and civic events throughout the community. For more information on the Manassas Symphony, visit its website at ManassasSymphony.org.
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A Night on the Riviera
Experience a magical evening at the Embassy of France with A Night on the Riviera, an event that will transport you to the glamour of the French Riviera while celebrating the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras!
Indulge in an exquisite selection of French wines and champagne, paired with the finest French cuisine prepared by the talented Chef of the Embassy of France. Additionally, Chef Hugh Cossard will be carving ham live, ensuring freshness and exceptional flavor. Don’t miss out on the authentic French crêpes, made to order and sure to transport you straight to the streets of Nice.
For those seeking an extra touch of exclusivity, the VIP experience includes unlimited champagne, adding an extra layer of sophistication to this festive celebration.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
(Webinar) Diet & Dementia: Brain-Healthy Tips to Reduce Your Risk…
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