WS Chronicle

Music Director Michelle Merrill returns for her second season with the Winston-Salem Symphony with a concert series featuring dazzling pianist Ray Ushikubo, who will perform George Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue. Merrill has programmed a stunning season opener, including Johannes Brahms’ Symphony No. 2 in D Major, and Richard Strauss’ Suite from Der Rosenkavalier.

“I am eagerly awaiting the start of my second season as music director of the Winston-Salem Symphony,” said Merrill. “Last year was fulfilling because I met many concert patrons and was honored to work with our orchestra’s incredible musicians in various formats. 

“This year I was able to program each concert, including beloved classics, alongside new and engaging works. That is what is so enchanting about music as an art form – it is ever-changing and evolving. New pieces are being written, but even old favorites, such as Brahms’ Second Symphony, can sound new and fresh while at the same time nostalgic and familiar. 

“So, I hope you will come and experience your favorites this season and, along the way, add some new ones to your list.”

The season opens on Saturday, Sept. 21 at 7:30 p.m. at Reynolds Auditorium, 301 N. Hawthorne Road,, with a Sunday performance on Sept. 22 at 3 p.m. Merrill chose to open the season with Symphony No. 2 in D Major by Johannes Brahms, known for its sunny disposition, pastoral charm, and joyful finale. The four-movement work was well-received by audiences and critics alike. Its approachable, melodic nature has made it one of Brahms’ most beloved symphonies.

Ray Ushikubo, a rising phenom, will make his Winston-Salem debut by performing Gershwin’s masterpiece in the second piece. Ushikubo is a rare prodigy, having double-majored in piano and violin at the prestigious Curtis Institute of Music. Rhapsody in Blue celebrates its 100th anniversary as a landmark piece of American music. Gershwin blended elements of classical music with the burgeoning jazz scene of 1924.

The concert closes with the Suite from Der Rosenkavalier by Richard Strauss, which Merrill noted is richly within the tradition of Viennese waltzes. “Expect it to have lots of energy, passion, and fun,” said Merrill.

The public is invited to several opportunities to interact with Michelle Merrill and performers throughout the week leading up to the concert. First, Symphony by the Glass returns to The Caviste, 1100 Reynolda Road, on Thursday, Sept. 19, from 5:30-6:30 p.m. This event provides an opportunity to be serenaded by Symphony musicians while learning about the weekend’s concert music and tasting wines paired with each composition.

Patrons are also invited to the Symphony’s Music Lovers’ Luncheons. These fun and informative pre-concert events occur the Friday before each 2024-25 Classics Series concert from 12-1:30 p.m. Attendees can learn about the weekend’s programming while enjoying a gourmet lunch. The Sept. 20 Music Lovers’ Luncheon will include a discussion between Michelle Merrill and Ray Ushikubo. Participants will gain insights into the music presented and learn more about the performers’ careers and backgrounds. The luncheons are $35 per person, and advance registration is required. Visit wssymphony.org/luncheon for more information and to make a reservation. This season’s luncheons occur at Forsyth Country Club, 3101 Country Club Road.

Finally, the audience can mingle with Merrill, Ushikubo, and orchestra members immediately following the Saturday performance at The Remedy Café & Bar, 429 West End Boulevard.

For more information and to purchase tickets, go to wssymphony.org.