This post is one in a series that will introduce you to the Art of Huntsville, more specifically the performing arts of Huntsville. In this series, we will highlight the 2013-14 seasons of our many talented local performing arts groups from Fantasy Playhouse to Huntsville Community Chorus to our local high schools. You can read more posts in our Art of Huntsville series by visiting our performing arts page.

About Huntsville Symphony Orchestra

The Huntsville Symphony Orchestra is the oldest, continuously operating professional orchestra in the state of Alabama. Since it’s beginning in 1955, the Orchestra has touched many lives beyond the concert hall.

“Each piece of music has its own unique personality,” said Huntsville Symphony Orchestra Music Director and Conductor Gregory Vajda. “So does every composer, every musician, and each soloist. This season, HSO’s 59th, we will showcase the unique and wonderful personalities of music and the people who make it.”

Purchase Tickets: Online through their website or by calling the HSO box office at 256-539-4818
Tickets: $38-$69. Discounts available for students and groups. Visit the HSO website or call the box office for details.
The Space: Von Braun Center’s Mark C. Smith Concert Hall, except Pops series which is noted
Seating: All seats are reserved

Huntsville Symphony Orchestra 2013-14 Season

2Cellos

The 2Cellos unique version of Michael Jackson’s “Smooth Criminal” took the world by storm as a huge viral sensation on YouTube leading to a record deal with Sony and an invitation to join Elton John on his worldwide tour.

Apart from touring with Elton John, 2CELLOS have performed with the Red Hot Chili Peppers, George Michael and Leona Lewis and released their second album IN2ITION in January 2013. And, they are REALLY good looking!

Friday, October 25, 2013, at 7:30 p.m.

HSO Classical Series

At the HSO Classical Series, look for familiar favorites as well as some new options.

McDuffie Plays Bernstein • Friday, October 4, 2013, at 7:30 p.m.
Béla Fleck is an American master of the banjo
La Bohème • Friday, November 15, 2013, at 7:30 p.m.
Béla Fleck Banjo Concerto • Saturday, January 11, 2014, at 7:30 p.m.
Soaring Melodies • Saturday, February 1, 2014, at 7:30 p.m.
Mozart’s Requiem • Saturday, March 15, 2014, at 7:30 p.m.
Two Fifths on the Fifth • Saturday, April 5, 2014, at 7:30 p.m.

HSO Casual Classics

Gregory Vajda (Musical Director) has long dreamed of creating a more interactive way for symphony audiences to experience music in the Casual Classics concerts. Some logistical issues are still to be resolved, but all Casual Classics performances will remain casual in both attire and attitude.

Mozart Is Served • Sunday, November 3, 2013, at 5:30 p.m
Brass Attack • Sunday, February 2, 2014, at 3:30 p.m.
Bach in Tahiti • Sunday, March 30, 2014, at 3:30 p.m.

The Space: locations vary; include EarlyWorks Museum Complex

HSO Pops

This year’s Pops Series promises variety and excitement, with guest artists, movie clips, and rich, beautiful music.

New Year’s Eve in Havana • Tuesday, December 31, 2013, at 7:30 p.m.
Pixar in Concert • Saturday, January 18, 2014, at 7:00 p.m.
Valentine’s Day – The Music of ABBA • Friday, • February 14, 2014, at 7:30 p.m.

Opus Tadpole

What sound does a bassoon make? What is the difference between a violin and a viola? How many strings are on a harp?

Children (and their parents and grandparents) have fun discovering the answers to these musical questions and more during twenty-minute Opus Tadpole presentations. Grownups may also learn a thing or two!

Admission: FREE

Saturday, January 11, 2014
Saturday, February 1, 2014
Saturday, March 15, 2014
Saturday, April 5, 2014

Sneak Previews

Join the HSO LIVE for Sneak Previews — final rehearsals open to the public. Get a glimpse of the artists in a working setting in this popular event that is perfect for families, seniors, and students.

Admission: Single: $5, Season Pass: $20, Family Season Pass: $50, Children 5 and Under: FREE

Thursday, October 3, 2013, 7:30 p.m.
Thursday, November 14, 2013, 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, January 11, 2014, 11:00 a.m.
Saturday, February 1, 2014, 11:00 a.m.
Saturday, March 15, 2014, 11:00 a.m.
Saturday, April 5, 2014, 11:00 a.m.

FREE Family Concert

Peter and the Wolf- Featuring the music of Prokofiev’s Peter and the Wolf — along with two Mozart selections — this will be an especially delightful FREE Family Concert! It’s a wonderful way to introduce young people to the instruments and music of a symphony . . . and it’s completely FREE, thanks to sponsorship from Damson Automotive Group and the Painted Violin Society!