SPRINGFIELD - The Springfield Symphony Orchestra began its 2016 -17 season at Symphony Hall on Saturday night with a celebration of the music of Tchaikovsky.
Opening night of the Symphony's 73rd season was preceded by their series called "Classical Conversations." The pre-concert discussions are a special feature on SSO classical nights with a presentation by a guest lecturer which includes time for audience questions. This evening's special guest was NEPR's classical music host, John Nowacki.
Classical Conversations are free to ticket holders, and will be held on select nights throughout the season.
An early crowd also gathered for the President's Opening Night Reception hosted by SSO President David Gang and Roberta Hillenberg-Gang. The event, which required a separate ticket, was held in the Mahogany Room prior to the concert. Guests were treated to a Russian themed event with a wide variety of hors d'oeuvres and an appearance by SSO Maestro Kevin Rhodes.
The evening featured one of the most popular of Tchaikovsky's compositions, Piano Concerto No. 1, with renowned guest pianist, Fabio Bidini.
The next SSO concert will be on Saturday, November 19 performing Brahm's double concerto for violin and cello and Bruckner's Symphony No. 7. Tickets are available through the SSO Box Office at (413) 733-2291 or online at springfieldsymphony.org.