JSO Celebrates the Sounds of Nature with Beethoven’s Pastorale and More

The Jackson Symphony Orchestra’s Classical Concert Series continues its 75th anniversary season with an evening celebrating the sounds of nature, featuring Beethoven’s Pastoral Symphony, Smetana’s The Moldau from My Fatherland, and Bruch’s Scottish Fantasy. The concert will take place on November 16, 2024 at 7:30pm, at the Potter Center and will feature Grammy Award-winning violinist Melissa White, a native of Lansing, Michigan.

The program will open with Beethoven’s beloved Symphony No. 6 “Pastorale”, a masterpiece known for its depiction of nature’s beauty. From the peaceful countryside to a thrilling storm, Beethoven paints a vivid picture through his music.

“It’s remarkable how composers can make the orchestra sound like the natural world. From Beethoven’s bird songs to Smetana’s bubbling river sounds, you’ll experience the imagery in the composer’s mind through sound!” said Jackson Symphony Orchestra Music Director Matthew Aubin.

Following Pastorale, the orchestra will perform Smetana’s The Moldau, which beautifully depicts the journey of the Vltava River through the landscape of Bohemia, capturing the flow of nature’s beauty.

The second half of the concert will highlight Bruch’s Scottish Fantasy, with Grammy Award-winning violinist Melissa White’s highly anticipated solo performance showcasing the vibrant folk themes and lyrical charm of this audience favorite.