Concerts & Events
Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra: Opening Night
Rossen Milanov, conductor
Featuring principals from the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra
The Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra season opens with an evening of musical brilliance, showcasing the virtuosity of the orchestra’s principal wind players. The performance begins with Mozart’s Sinfonia Concertante for winds, a work that epitomizes classical elegance and collaborative artistry. Tchaikovsky’s Fourth Symphony, a gripping composition that weaves a narrative of fate and passion, rounds out the program in this celebratory opening night.
Program:
W.A. Mozart: Sinfonia concertante in E-flat major, K. Anh. C14.01
Jaren Atherholt, oboe
Eli Eban, clarinet
Jeffrey Robinson, bassoon
Roger Kaza, horn
Pyotr Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 4 in F minor, Op. 36
June 27 @ 8:15 pm Week One (June 22–29)
Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra: Rhapsody for Cello
Amphitheater
Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra: Rhapsody for Cello
Rossen Milanov, conductor
Lars Kirvan, cello
The Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra transports you through a rich tapestry of emotions woven by two iconic composers. The evening begins with Ernest Bloch’s evocative Schelomo: Rhapsodie Hébraïque for Violoncello and Orchestra, a poignant journey that captures the essence of Hebrew folklore through the expressive voice of the cello, featuring the CSO’s own Lars Kirvan, assistant principal cellist. Brahms’ second symphony closes the program with melodic richness and pastoral beauty, showcasing the orchestra’s prowess under the baton of Music Director Rossen Milanov.
Program:
Ernest Bloch: Schelomo: Rhapsodie Hébraïque for Violoncello and Orchestra
Johannes Brahms: Symphony No. 2 in D major, Op. 73
June 29 @ 8:15 pm Week Two (June 29–July 6)
Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra: Beethoven’s Ode to Joy
Amphitheater
Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra: Beethoven’s Ode to Joy
Rossen Milanov, conductor
Buffalo Philharmonic Chorus
Adam Luebke, music director
Oznur Tuluoglu, soprano
Ronnita Miller, mezzo-soprano
Dennis Shuman, tenor
Seoyong Lee, baritone
The Chautuauqua Symphony Orchestra commemorates Chautauqua’s sesquicentenniel in a program that evokes the best in human values. The CSO’s frequent collaborator, the Buffalo Philharmonic Chorus, under the direction of Adam Luebke, joins the CSO for Howard Hanson’s “Song of Democracy,” a celebration of the collective voice and aspirations of humanity. The program continues with Beethoven’s iconic Symphony No. 9, famously known as the “Ode to Joy.” Beethoven’s masterwork stands as a timeless testament to the enduring power of joy and brotherhood. Join us for an unforgettable evening of music that uplifts the soul and inspires a deeper connection to the universal ideals of liberty and dignity of all people.
Program:
Howard Hanson: Song of Democracy
Ludwig van Beethoven: Symphony No. 9 in D minor, Op. 125
July 2 @ 8:15 pm Week Two (June 29–July 6)
Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra: Flights of Fantasy
Amphitheater
Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra: Flights of Fantasy
Rossen Milanov, conductor
Featuring the Horn Section of the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra
Step into a world of enchantment and virtuosity as the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra invites you to revel in the brilliance of three captivating works. The highlight of the evening features all five members of the CSO horn section, up front in Robert Schumann’s Concertpiece for Horns and Orchestra, a mesmerizing exploration of lyrical beauty and technical prowess. Join us for an evening of musical enchantment, where the timeless works of Strauss, Schumann, Bizet and Offenback come together in a celebration of artistic brilliance and joie de vivre.
Program:
Johann Strauss: Carnival of Venice Fantasy
Robert Schumann: Concertpiece for Horns and Orchestra, Op. 86
Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra Horn Section
Roger Kaza
William Bernatis
Donna Dolson
Daniel Kerdelewicz
Mark Robbins
Georges Bizet: Symphony in C
Jacques Offenbach: Orpheus in the Underworld Overture
July 4 @ 8:00 pm Week Two (June 29–July 6)
Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra: Independence Day Celebration
Amphitheater
Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra: Independence Day Celebration
Stuart Chafetz, conductor
Julie Reiber, vocalist
Celebrate Independence Day in style with the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra’s July 4th concert, featuring the dynamic leadership of Principal Pops Conductor Stuart Chafetz and the sensational vocals of Julie Reiber. Join us for an evening of patriotic fervor and musical brilliance as we pay tribute to the spirit of America. From stirring marches to beloved Broadway hits, this concert promises a dazzling display of talent and passion that will leave audiences uplifted and inspired. Bring your family and friends and join us for a night of unforgettable music and festive fun with the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra.
July 6 @ 7:30 pm Week Three (July 6–13)
Jurassic Park Live in Concert with the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra
Amphitheater
Jurassic Park Live in Concert with the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra
Stuart Chafetz, conductor
The action-packed adventure pits man against prehistoric predators in the ultimate battle for survival. Featuring visually stunning imagery and groundbreaking special effects, this epic film is sheer movie magic 65 million years in the making.
Now audiences can experience Jurassic Park as never before: projected in HD with a full symphony orchestra performing John Williams’ iconic score live to picture.
Welcome… to Jurassic Park!
July 7 @ 2:30 pm Week Three (July 6–13)
Sunday Matinee: Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra: Carnival of the Animals
Amphitheater
Sunday Matinee: Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra: Carnival of the Animals
Rossen Milanov, conductor
Featuring students from the Chautauqua Piano Program
Embark on a whimsical journey through the animal kingdom witha delightful family concert featuring Camille Saint-Saëns’ “Carnival of the Animals.” Students from the Chautauqua Piano Program join the CSO for an afternoon of musical enchantment as Saint-Saëns’ imaginative score brings to life a delightful menagerie of creatures, from graceful swans to playful kangaroos. This relaxed concert offers a magical experience for audiences of all ages. Whether you’re a seasoned music lover or experiencing the wonder of orchestral music for the first time, this family concert promises an unforgettable adventure that will spark imagination and inspire a love for classical music in the hearts of children and adults alike.
Program:
Camille Saint-Saëns: Carnival of the Animals
Additional works to be announced.
Alexander Gavrylyuk, piano
The extraordinary Alexander Gavrylyuk serves as Artist in Residence for Chautauqua Institution. His international career has included appearances with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, the BBC Proms at the Royal Albert Hall with the BBC Scottish Symphony, and the Hollywood Bowl. Following what was hailed as an “electrifying performance” broadcast at the 2017 Proms in Royal Albert Hall with the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, Limelight magazine said “It is refreshing to experience completely new interpretations of traditional masterpieces by a monumental master of the piano who is, also, modest (and not falsely so), who is unassuming and completely dedicated to his art.”
Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra: Timeless Love
Carl St. Clair, conductor
Experience the timeless tales of love and tragedy through the dynamic fusion of Sergei Prokofiev’s Romeo & Juliet and Leonard Bernstein’s West Side Story Suite. Delve into the rich tapestry of emotions as the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra under the baton of guest conductor Carl St. Clair brings to life Prokofiev’s iconic score, evoking the passion and turmoil of Shakespeare’s classic romance. Then, immerse yourself in the vibrant streets of New York City with Bernstein’s electrifying adaptation, where the drama and intensity of “West Side Story” unfold through symphonic splendor.
Program:
Sergei Prokofiev: Romeo & Juliet Suite*
Leonard Bernstein: West Side Story Suite
*Music by Sergei Prokofiev
Scenario by Sergei Radlov, Adrian Piotrovsky, Leonid Lavrovsky, and Sergei Prokofiev
Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra: Opera and Pops
Stuart Chafetz, conductor
Steven Osgood, General & Artistic Director of Chautauqua Opera Company
Chautauqua Opera Company Apprentice and Studio Artists
Chautauqua Opera Company Apprentice and Studio Artists join Stuart Chafetz, Principal Pops Conductor, and the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra for the much-anticipated annual Opera & Pops concert. From the soaring arias of beloved operas to the show-stopping numbers of Broadway’s greatest hits, this concert promises to enchant audiences with its diverse repertoire and dynamic performances. Whether you’re a fan of classical vocal artistry, Broadway show tunes, or modern pop hits, this concert offers something for everyone, showcasing the versatility and virtuosity of our talented performers. Join us for a night of unforgettable music that transcends genres and captivates hearts.
July 13 @ 8:15 pm Week Four (July 13–20)
Paul Taylor Dance Company with the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra
Amphitheater
Paul Taylor Dance Company with the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra
Rossen Milanov, conductor
One of the most iconic and dynamic modern dance ensembles of our time, the Paul Taylor Dance Company has been innovating and transforming the artform of modern dance since 1954. With a history of multidisciplinary collaborations, passionate expression and thrilling athleticism, the Company is known worldwide for its vast repertory, performing work from the Founder’s canon; new works created by some of today’s most engaging and established choreographers; and important historical dance from the 20th and 21st centuries. Dedicated to sharing modern dance with the broadest possible audience, the Company tours annually, both domestically and internationally, with performances and a variety of educational programs and engagement offerings. The Company returns to Chautauqua in two separate programs at the Amphitheater, with Saturday’s program featuring live music from the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra under the baton of music director Rossen Milanov.
Program:
Mercuric Tidings
Syzygy
Promethean Fire
July 16 @ 8:15 pm Week Four (July 13–20)
Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra: Grieg Piano Concerto
Amphitheater
Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra: Grieg Piano Concerto
Rossen Milanov, conductor
Alexander Gavrylyuk, piano
Stunningly virtuosic and internationally recognized pianist Alexander Gavrylyuk joins the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra in Grieg’s powerful piano concerto. Currently serving as Artist-in-Residence for Chautauqua Institution, Mr. Gavrylyuk is a First Prize and Gold Medal winner of the Horowitz, Hamamatsu and Arthur Rubinstein Piano Competitions.
Program:
Edvard Grieg: Piano Concerto in A minor, Op. 16
Modest Mussorgsky: Pictures at an Exhibition
Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra: Spanish Guitar
Timothy Muffitt, conductor
Bokyung Byun, guitar
Experience an evening of exquisite virtuosity as prize-winning guitarist Bokyung Byun joins forces with the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra and conductor Timothy Muffitt in a mesmerizing symphony program. Byun’s artistry shines brightly in the haunting beauty of Joaquín Rodrigo’s iconic “Concierto de Aranjuez,” weaving intricate melodies and evocative harmonies. Join the CSO for an unforgettable evening of music that transports you to the heart of Spain, where passion and artistry converge in a symphonic celebration.
Program:
Maurice Ravel: Alborada del gracioso
Joaquín Rodrigo: Concierto de Aruanjuez
Manuel de Falla: El sombrero de tres picos, Suite No. 2
Emmanuel Chabrier: España
July 20 @ 8:15 pm Week Five (July 20–27)
In the Air Tonight: A Symphonic Celebration of Genesis & Phil Collins with the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra
Amphitheater
In the Air Tonight: A Symphonic Celebration of Genesis & Phil Collins with the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra
Stuart Chafetz, conductor
Aaron Finley, vocalist
Brook Wood, vocalist
Brian Kushmaul, drums
Phil Collins’ one of a kind drum work and songwriting have left an enduring mark on music. With the megaband Genesis and his numerous solo hits, Phil Collins – along with bandmates Tony Banks and Mike Rutherford – penned unforgettable hits featured in this symphonic tribute featuring two vocalists. Show highlights include “Follow You Follow Me,” “Abacab,” “I Missed Again,” “Turn It On Again,” “Sussudio,” “One More Night,” “Take Me Home,” “Two Hearts,” and the iconic “In the Air Tonight.”
Chautauqua Piano Program Showcase
Nicola Melville, Chair
Alexander Kobrin, 2024 Heintzelman Family Artistic Advisor
Pianists from the Chautauqua School of Music present a scintillating program of works for one and two pianos, with repertoire drawn from virtuoso works of the great classical composers and arrangements of popular and familiar tunes. Don’t miss your chance to see the next generation of talent on the Amphitheater stage today!
The Chautauqua Piano Program is a highly selective and dynamic five week program for 20 pianists, ages 18–28. Combining an array of resident and guest faculty with unmatched practice and performance facilities, the program is designed to inspire young pianists from all over the globe. Students will have solo and chamber music performance opportunities, plentiful private lessons, and faculty-led discussions and master classes focused on advanced pianistic growth and building a career path. In 2024, the piano program will also host the SAI Concerto Competition.
Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra: Dvorak 8
Chia-Hsuan Lin, conductor
Conductor Chia-Hsuan Lin returns to the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra for a program that journeys through diverse musical landscapes, featuring a rich tapestry of compositions from around the world. The program culminates with Antonin Dvorak’s majestic Symphony No. 8, a stirring masterpiece that pays homage to the folk traditions of Dvorak’s native Bohemia. Join us for an unforgettable symphonic experience that celebrates the rich diversity of musical expression from around the globe.
Program:
Samuel Coleridge-Taylor: Petite Suite de Concert, Op. 77
Tyzen Hsiao: The Angel from Formosa
Antonin Dvorak: Symphony No. 8 in G major, Op. 88, B.163
July 24 @ 7:30 pm Week Five (July 20–27)
Chautauqua Opera Company presents Hansel and Gretel
Amphitheater
Chautauqua Opera Company presents Hansel and Gretel
This timeless fairytale follows two siblings bravely navigating a mysterious forest, and their perilous encounter with a mischievous witch and her delectable gingerbread house.
Chautauqua’s Amphitheater is the perfect setting to bring Engelbert Humperdinck’s mesmerizing and lush score to life with the full power of the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra, sung in English and transporting audiences of all ages into a fantastical realm.
July 25 @ 8:15 pm Week Five (July 20–27)
Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra: Barber and Bartók
Amphitheater
Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra: Barber and Bartók
Rossen Milanov, conductor
Prepare to be spellbound by a symphony program that traverses the depths of human emotion and narrative complexity. Samuel Barber’s “Essay for Orchestra” sets the stage with its evocative melodies and stirring orchestration. Angel Kotev’s “Rhapsody No. 3 (‘Fateful’)” follows, offering a haunting exploration of destiny and fate through its mesmerizing themes and rich harmonic language. The evening reaches its climax with Béla Bartók’s “The Miraculous Mandarin Suite,” a tour de force of orchestral virtuosity and dramatic intensity, weaving a tale of seduction, betrayal, and redemption. Join us for a symphonic evening of masterful compositions come to life in the hands of the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra under the baton of music director Rossen Milanov.
Program:
Samuel Barber: Essay for Orchestra, Op. 12
Angel Kotev: Rhapsody No. 3 (‘Fateful’)
Béla Bartók: The Miraculous Mandarin Suite
July 27 @ 8:15 pm Week Six (July 27–August 3)
Renée Fleming with the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra
Amphitheater
Renée Fleming with the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra
Rossen Milanov, conductor
One of the most acclaimed singers of our time, Renée Fleming joins the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Rossen Milanov. Honored with five Grammy® awards and the US National Medal of Arts, Ms. Fleming has sung for momentous occasions from the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony to the Diamond Jubilee Concert for Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace. This summer she brings Voice of Nature: the Anthropocene to the Amphitheater, a new, live, multi-media performance piece, inspired by her Grammy Award-winning album of the same name. In concert with an original film created for this performance by National Geographic, Fleming sings music ranging from Handel to The Lord of the Rings, with stunning video captured in locations from the Amazon rainforest to Yosemite, addressing humankind’s complicated relationship with nature.
July 30 @ 8:15 pm Week Six (July 27–August 3)
Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra: Mahler’s Fourth Symphony
Amphitheater
Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra: Mahler’s Fourth Symphony
Rossen Milanov, conductor
Melissa White, violin
Aubry Ballarò, soprano
Immerse yourself in an evening of two major orchestral works. Acclaimed violinist Melissa White takes center stage with the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra in the passionate and lyrical sounds of Max Bruch’s first violin concerto. The program continues with Mahler’s fourth symphony, known for its delicate and celestial beauty. Join us for a night of musical brilliance, where the artistry of the musicians and the grandeur of Bruch and Mahler converge to create an unforgettable symphonic experience.
Melissa White performs with the Harlem Quartet on Monday, July 29, as part of the Chautauqua Chamber Music series.
Program:
Max Bruch: Violin Concerto No. 1 in G minor, Op. 26
Gustav Mahler: Symphony No. 4 in G major
August 1 @ 8:15 pm Week Six (July 27–August 3)
Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra: Brahms Piano Concerto
Amphitheater
Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra: Brahms Piano Concerto
Rossen Milanov, conductor
Alexander Kobrin, piano
Embark on a journey of profound emotion and musical mastery with pianist Alexander Kobrin and the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra under the baton of music director Rossen Milanov. The evening begins with Johannes Brahms’ majestic Piano Concerto No. 1, a monumental work that showcases Kobrin’s virtuosity and interpretive depth. The program concludes with Robert Schumann’s Symphony No. 4, a symphonic masterpiece that brims with vitality and innovation. Join us for an unforgettable evening of music-making!
Program:
Johannes Brahms: Piano Concerto No. 1 in D minor, Op. 15
Robert Schumann: Symphony No. 4 in D minor, Op. 120