November 18, 2021
The Knoxville Symphony Orchestra will present Tchaikovsky’s passionate and emotionally turbulent “Pathetique” symphony on Nov. 18-19 in the third Moxley Carmichael Masterworks Series concert of the 2021-22 season. KSO Resident Conductor James Fellenbaum will lead both performances at the Tennessee Theatre.
The evening begins with the world premiere of Knoxville-based composer Dosia McKay’s “Watercolors,” a short, playful piece interweaving colorful melodies throughout the orchestra. Pianist Andrew Staupe makes his KSO debut with Scriabin’s Piano Concerto in F-sharp minor, a romantic and moving concerto that allows the orchestra and solo piano to shine throughout all three movements.
“While most audiences and pianists are familiar with a handful of piano concerto masterpieces, there are hundreds and hundreds of piano concertos out there, including Scriabin’s gorgeous Concerto in F-sharp minor,” Staupe said. “I have had the distinct joy of bringing many of these unsung masterpieces to audiences in the past, and it is my honor to collaborate with Maestro James Fellenbaum and the amazing Knoxville Symphony Orchestra on this exciting project. Don’t miss it!”
The evening concludes with Tchaikovsky’s “Pathetique.” The symphony takes the listener on an emotional roller coaster with a searingly-passionate first movement; an offbeat waltz for the second movement; a rousing, crowd-pleasing march for the third movement; and a heart-wrenching finale. The symphony became known as the composer’s symphonic masterpiece. Tchaikovsky left no doubt as to his affection for “Pathetique,” stating, “I take more pride in it than any other of my works.”
Purchase tickets by calling 865-291-3310 or visiting the KSO website. Single tickets range from $16-$90; children’s tickets start at $10. Groups of 10 or more can purchase tickets at a discounted rate by calling 865-521-2337.
Tennessee Theatre concert entry protocols require all audience members, staff and musicians to provide proof of complete COVID-19 vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result administered within 72 hours before the performance. Masks will be required regardless of vaccination status at all times except while eating and drinking.
About the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra
Led by Music Director Aram Demirjian, the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra consists of 80 professional musicians and performs 300 programs throughout the region each season, reaching audiences of more than 200,000 people. The KSO performs in traditional venues such as the Tennessee Theatre, Bijou Theatre, and Civic Auditorium, as well as non-traditional places like hospitals, schools, city parks, and churches. For more information regarding the KSO, please visit www.knoxvillesymphony.com or call 865-291-3310.
