In 2008/2009 both concerts in this series sold out! Now a three-concert series, the programs tells the stories, passions and experiences that influenced musical geniuses past and present. The multi-media format brings a relevant new feel to the performance of symphonic masterpieces. Leif Bjaland conducts and narrates.

Subscribers receive benefits like guaranteed reserved seating and free ticket exchanges.

*Subscription renewals are NOT available online. Please contact the Box Office to renew.

PORTRAITS IN PASSION

Saturday, September 12, 8 p.m., Sarasota Opera House

Five Sarasota Orchestra musicians are highlighted as their musical paths are shown in short video presentations prior to solo performances that demonstrate their brilliance. Live video projection of the soloists makes this concert a larger-than life experience. The evening opens with a full orchestra performance of Berlioz’s popular Roman Carnival Overture and closes with Rimsky-Korsakov’s moving Russian Easter Overture.

John Miller, Bass & Jennifer Best, Violin	Betsy Traba, Flute	Keith Carrick, Percussion	Jay Hunsberger, Tuba

MOZART: TOUCHED BY THE GODS

Saturday, October 10, 8 p.m., Sarasota Opera House

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s last three symphonies were written in a miraculous blaze of inspiration during the summer of 1788. They formed a dazzling summation of Mozart’s inner soul and presented a remarkable window into the future. In a multi-media presentation, Leif Bjaland’s narration documents Mozart’s journey to genius, culminating in a performance of Mozart’s final symphony, the glorious Jupiter Symphony.

The Herald Tribune wrote about the Journeys to Genius format: “Leif Bjaland’s vision to create a deeply meaningful, integrated media experience – a live classical music documentary of sorts – was right on target.”

BEETHOVEN: THE ANGRY REVOLUTIONARY

Saturday, April 24, 8 p.m., Sarasota Opera House

Following a sold-out performance last season, Beethoven: The Angry Revolutionary returns for an encore presentation. Facing the loss of his hearing and surrounded by the chaos of revolution and war across Europe, Beethoven composed one of the most triumphant (and familiar) pieces of music of all time. Hear and see the story of Beethoven’s personal journey that culminates in his remarkable Fifth Symphony.

“The audience was justified in its overwhelming ovation. Perhaps it had heard Beethoven with new ears and a new understanding of his music’s meaning in our own lives.” Herald Tribune review