Exciting Season Kickoff for the South Carolina Philharmonic in Columbia!

Exciting Season Kickoff for the South Carolina Philharmonic in Columbia!

Columbia, South Carolina, is in for a real treat tonight, as the South Carolina Philharmonic kicks off its 60th Anniversary Season with a performance titled Juliet & Her Romeo. The event is set to take place at the esteemed Koger Center for the Arts at 7:30 PM, and you won’t want to miss it!

A Celebration of Timeless Classics

What can you expect from tonight’s concert? Well, the Philharmonic will delve into the enchanting world of Sergei Prokofiev’s ballet, which is based on the timeless tale of Romeo and Juliet. This beloved story needs no introduction; it’s a classic that has captured hearts for generations. Alongside Prokofiev’s stirring ballet, audiences will enjoy Ravel’s Piano Concerto in G Major, a vibrant piece that perfectly complements the evening’s theme. The talented pianist Katherine Liu, the winner of the 2022 Arthur Fraser Piano Competition, will take the stage to deliver what promises to be a breathtaking performance.

Modern Touch with a Cultural Twist

But that’s not all! The concert will also feature a modern opening piece titled Centuries by the acclaimed composer Shaosheng Li. Li, currently a composer in residence with the China National Symphony Orchestra and Guangxi Symphony Orchestra, is known for his remarkable ability to blend Chinese and Western musical traditions. This unique fusion is sure to set the stage on fire with energy and creativity, making for a memorable evening right from the start!

Meet the Talented Katherine Liu

Born and raised in the Boston area, Katherine Liu has made quite an impact in the music world already. Not only does she have her hands full with studies in the challenging Harvard University-New England Conservatory (NEC) Dual Degree Program, where she is pursuing both a bachelor’s degree from Harvard and a Master of Music from NEC, but she also showcases her talent as a renowned pianist. She was supposed to perform last season, but a hand injury delayed her debut. Tonight, she finally gets to shine!

Music as a Connector

As the Philharmonic celebrates its six decades of bringing music to the Midlands, Music Director Morihiko Nakahara shared an inspiring thought. He noted how, just like in sports, music unites us through shared experiences. “We are committed to breaking down barriers, making it easy for folks of all backgrounds to enjoy our performances,” he explained. This vision of increased accessibility and engagement with music aligns with the Philharmonic’s goal of inviting a wider audience to explore their beautiful music.

Get Your Tickets!

If you haven’t grabbed your tickets yet, there’s still time! Prices for Juliet & Her Romeo range from $15 to $60. You can purchase them through the Koger Center Box Office or by calling 803-251-2222. You can also visit the box office in person at 806 Park St. in Columbia. It’s going to be an amazing night filled with beautiful music, and we can’t wait to see you there!

Looking Ahead

This fabulous concert marks just the beginning of a season packed with spectacular performances. The South Carolina Philharmonic is eager to attract music lovers from all over, inviting everyone to join in and celebrate the magic of orchestral music together. With its diverse programming and commitment to community engagement, this season promises to be one for the ages!

So grab your friends, family, or that special someone, and head on over to the Koger Center tonight for an unforgettable musical experience!