Hastings Symphony Orchestra Celebrates Season 99

Hastings, NE – The Hastings Symphony Orchestra (HSO) proudly announces its 99th consecutive season, a thrilling program packed with timeless classics, family-friendly performances, and bold contemporary works. Under the baton of Dr. Tyler Goodrich White, this season’s theme, "Centennial Crescendo: Prelude to a Grand Celebration!" continues to highlight the orchestra’s mission of blending tradition with innovation.

Kicking off the season, the “September Pops!” on September 8, at 1 pm, offers a fun and festive afternoon in Chautauqua Park. It features Beethoven’s exhilarating Fifth Symphony, opera and film favorites, and patriotic selections. This concert is a perfect way for the whole family to enjoy a musical experience that combines entertainment and artistry.

October 27 brings “Masterworks: Commemorations—Classical Humor, Romantic Grandeur,” with a humorous tribute to Peter Schickele’s comedic genius in Eine kleine Nichtmusik and a celebration of Anton Bruckner’s 200th birthday with his sweeping Symphony No. 4, “Romantic.” This blend of humor and grandeur sets the tone for a season that promises variety and depth.

The festive spirit continues on December 8 with "Holiday Magic," a beloved tradition that invites the entire community to celebrate with classic Christmas carols, family favorites, and the signature performance of "Sleigh Ride." It’s a must-attend event to ring in the holiday season!

On February 23, HSO presents "Masterworks: Beethoven and Bolero," combining the dynamism of Beethoven’s "Symphony No. 2" with the hypnotic rhythm of Ravel’s "Boléro." This concert also showcases young talent with the winner of HSO’s Young Artist Competition and includes Ponchielli’s joyful "Dance of the Hours", known from "Fantasia."

March’s "Chamber Music at The Lark" offers two opportunities for an intimate exploration of spring through small ensemble works, including Wagner’s tender Siegfried Idyll, Milhaud’s jazzy "The Creation of the World," and Copland’s quintessentially American "Appalachian Spring Suite." Two shows, Saturday evening, March 15, and Sunday afternoon, March 16, allow the audience to experience the orchestra’s musicians up close in a cozy setting.

The season reaches a grand finale on April 27 with "Masterworks: Banner, Barber, and Brahms." This concert highlights the brilliance of contemporary composer Jessie Montgomery with her reimagining of the National Anthem in "Banner," alongside Barber’s emotionally rich "Violin Concerto," featuring rising star Jessica Mathaes, and Brahms’s lyrical "Symphony No. 2". 

With a captivating blend of humor, grandeur, contemporary innovation, and timeless classics, Season 99 is a testament to the Hastings Symphony Orchestra’s ongoing legacy of musical excellence. Season passes and individual concert tickets are available now, offering the perfect opportunity to experience this remarkable lineup.

For more information about the Hastings Symphony Orchestra, concert dates, and tickets, visit www.hastingssymphony.com.