The Virginia Symphony Orchestra begins its 105th season on Friday with five performances across Hampton Roads, including Tchaikovsky’s Fifth Symphony and Schubert’s Cello Quintet. This season also marks the fifth for Music Director Eric Jacobsen, the Macon and Joan Brock chair.
Jacobsen said in a news release that he’s honored to launch the season with the beloved Tchaikovsky's Fifth.
“This piece takes audiences on an emotional journey through the joys and triumphs of life, but also the struggles and woes.”
The VSO is calling its 2025-26 season “American Spirit and Symphonic Brilliance” as it joins in the America250 celebration, featuring more than 25 American composers and soloists. The orchestra will showcase pieces that frame the history of the United States, such as Samuel Barber’s Overture to The School for Scandal, which will be performed this weekend.
The 2025-26 Subscription Season features 47 performances, including “Yo-Yo Ma & Kayhan Kalhor: One Night Only;” Gershwin's An American in Paris & Copland’s Rodeo; Dvořák’s New World Symphony + Gil & Orli Shaham; “Aretha: A Tribute featuring Capathia Jenkins and Darryl Williams,” and Beethoven’s Fifth, which will be played through May.
Schedule for opening weekend:
Tchaikovsky’s Fifth Symphony + Cellist Jan Vogler
Friday, 11 a.m. and 7:30 p.m., Ferguson Center for the Arts, Newport News
Saturday, 7:30 p.m., Chrysler Hall, Norfolk
Sunday, 2:30 p.m., Sandler Center for the Performing Arts, Virginia Beach
Schubert’s Cello Quintet
Saturday, 3 p.m., Ferguson Center for the Arts, Peebles Theatre, Newport News
Visit virginiasymphony.org for tickets and more information.