COVER STORY – Bright Lights, Big Music

Brevard Symphony Orchestra is Back in a BIG Way for Their 69th Season

By Virginia Anzengruber

There’s nothing that compares to the thrill of a live performance. The energy that fills a space with the beautiful convergence of artist and audience is one that crackles with the knowledge that it can never be exactly replicated. The magic lives in the uniqueness of the moment. Navigating the last few years of the COVID-19 pandemic has made much of that magic come to a standstill. But Brevard County residents can celebrate the big and bold return of the Brevard Symphony Orchestra, a fan-favorite musical experience that’s bringing the magic back to the Space Coast for another season of world-class concerts.

Returning for their 69th Season – “Bright Lights, Big Music” – the Brevard Symphony Orchestra is the only fully professional orchestra in Brevard County and home to many of Central Florida’s finest classical musicians. Under the musical direction of lauded conductor Christopher Confessore, the upcoming season will feature six Signature Series concerts, all taking place at the BSO’s resident theater, the King Center for the Performing Arts in Melbourne, on the Eastern Florida State College campus.

“The new season is full of some of my favorite pieces of music, and we’re welcoming back some returning guest artists like violinist Julian Rhee, as well as introducing a few new artists like soprano Kyaunnee Richardson and cellist Mark Kosower, who will surely become new BSO favorites. We’ve also got an incredibly fun POPS concert this season that comedy fans will love, featuring music from classics like The Pink Panther, works by Stephen Sondheim, and even music from the Larry David-led HBO sitcom, Curb Your Enthusiasm. I can’t wait to get this season started and be back with our wonderful audiences once again,” says Mr. Confessore.

While all the Signature Series concerts have evening performances, the January, February, and March concerts will also have a matinee offering, perfect for those who are more interested in midday activities. Additionally, the Brevard Symphony Orchestra is once again performing its annual holiday concert, Sounds of the Season, on November 26 at 2PM at the King Center – a performance of Christmastime classics that is perfect for the whole family.

“Our holiday concert is the perfect opportunity for families to get together and create a new tradition for themselves. It means so much to us when concertgoers tell us that we’ve become a part of their family’s holiday season. We love being in Brevard County and are so proud that our community supports us so passionately,” says BSO Executive Director David Schillhammer.

Even though so much has changed and shifted in the past few years, one comforting constant has been the incredible talent that the Brevard Symphony Orchestra showcases year after year, including their annual free 4th of July concert in partnership with the City of Cocoa, which was once again in full swing this past July. The upcoming season is sure to be no exception – bringing big music to Brevard County residents and visitors in a big way. Those interested in purchasing season subscriptions can do so now by calling the Brevard Symphony Orchestra directly at (321) 345-5052. Single concert tickets go on sale via the King Center’s website on September 12, 2022. Learn more at BrevardSymphony.com.