PEI Symphony Orchestra Presents: Ex-Romantico
PEI Symphony Orchestra Presents Ex-Romantico, Featuring Guest Soloist James Sommervilleand the Island Premiere of Kati Agócs’ Horn Concerto
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CHARLOTTETOWN, PE — January 9, 2025 — The PEI Symphony Orchestra (PEISO) kicks off its first concert of 2025 with Ex-Romantico on Sunday, March 2, 2025 at the Confederation Centre of the Arts. This concert promises an afternoon filled with elegance, passion, and musical grandeur as the PEISO showcases a special premiere and welcomes guest soloist James Sommerville, former principal horn of the Boston Symphony Orchestra.
Ex-Romantico is a program designed to explore music that amplifies and exaggerates human emotions, capturing the essence of Romanticism while reaching beyond its traditional boundaries. The concert highlights the debut performance of Kati Agócs' Horn Concerto, co-commissioned by the PEI Symphony Orchestra and composed for the renowned horn player James Sommerville. With its soaring melodies and rich emotional depth, this concerto promises to be a highlight of the afternoon, blending innovation with tradition.
"I inherited Canadian composer Kati Agócs’ horn concerto, and I’m honoured to be able to premiere it on PEI," said Jaelem Bhate, Music Director of the PEI Symphony Orchestra. "Kati wrote this work with James Sommerville in mind, and together, they create something truly extraordinary; they are both kind of a big deal!”
The concert will open with Fauré's poignant Pavane, a piece that pulls at the heartstrings. Following this, the PEI premiere of Agócs' Horn Concerto will take center stage, with Sommerville's virtuosity on full display. The afternoon will conclude with Mendelssohn's fiery Symphony No. 3, often referred to as the "Scottish Symphony," inspired by the composer’s travels to the rugged highlands of Scotland.
“This concert is for you if you want a taste of the grand European tradition of the symphony orchestra and classical music,” continued Bhate. “Ex-Romantico is all about music that speaks to the heart—expressive and extravagant, taking us through different musical eras. I hope to see you all there!”
The PEISO invites all concert attendees to enjoy a free, pre-concert talk beginning at 1:30 pm at the Confederation Centre.
All concerts take place Sundays at 2:30 pm in the Confederation Centre of the Arts in Charlottetown, PE. Purchase tickets or a subscription directly through the Confederation Centre at www.confederationcentre.com or call the Box Office at 902-566-1267. For more information about the 2024-25 season visit the PEISO website at www.peisymphony.com.
BACKGROUND
The Prince Edward Island Symphony Orchestra (PEISO) is one of PEI’s most respected performing arts organizations, providing Islanders with vibrant live orchestral experiences including classical, cross-genres, family and chamber-music concerts. Currently entering its 57th season, the PEISO is a proud member of the community and enriches the region through dynamic performances, comprehensive educational activities and impactful community relationships.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Laura Ono
PEI Symphony Orchestra
(902) 892-4333
admin@peisymphony.com
www.peisymphony.com
