Mash-up: something created by combining elements from two or more sources
You may be wondering why I’m starting today’s post with a definition. Because although I’m sure those of you who watch Glee are extremely familiar with the concept of mash-ups, I just wanted to give everyone else a quick refresher before I talk about the Huntsville Symphony Orchestra’s first concert of the season, a mash-up of epic proportions.
Symphony Mash-Up
When you think about the symphony, you probably picture something like the picture at right. Muscians playing:
- Violins
- Trombone
- Harp
- Flute
- Oboe
- And more
But suspend your typical thinking for a moment. Remember this is a mash-up! So let’s add a couple unexpected elements to the mix like:
- Aerial flyers
- Acrobats
- Contortionists
- Dancers
- Jugglers
- Strongmen
All performing alongside and even above (I told you this is not typical thinking) the orchestra. And what do you get? Cirque de la Symphonie, a joint performance of the Cirque de Solei and the Huntsville Symphony Orchestra (HSO).
Think you’ve seen this show before? Think again! This is a brand new presentation and NOT an encore from last year. And my sources tell me that if you liked the show last year, then you’ll be blown away this time!
The Music
The opening performance for the HSO will feature classic music pieces including:
- Sleeping Beauty by by Piotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky
- Swan Lake by Piotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky
- The Comedians by Dimitri Kabalevsky
- Gayaneh by Aram Khachaturian
- Russlan and Ludmilla Mikhail Glinka
- Faust by Charles Gounod
Music Director & Conductor, Gregory Vajda explains the design of the HSO’s season:
“This season is about voices. Every instrument in a symphony has its own unique voice, and this season we will showcase some of those beautiful voices through solos and guest artist performances. The season promises to be varied, entertaining, and vocal — in every way.”
Two Shows
If you’ve ever wanted to introduce your little ones to the joys of music then the HSO is giving you the perfect opportunity. They have added a Sunday matinee show that is ideal for families. Because of the added visuals of the Cirque performers, this show is a great way to introduce your kids to the wonders of the symphony without overwhelming them.
Plus there are special discounts for children, students and the military! Click here for ticket information. AND we’re giving away tickets! Enter below.
If you’re looking for a date night, then I’d suggest the Saturday night show. Both performances will follow the exact same format, and ticket prices are the same for both shows, so if you want the student or military pricing it is still good on Saturday night. I know that certainly factors into my decision making process! Click here to purchase your tickets.
No matter what show you attend, you will be blown away by the combination of the HSO’s music and the Cirque de Solei’s performers.
Ticket Giveaway
Event Information
Dates and Times:
Saturday, September 22 at 7:30pm
Sunday, September 23 at 2:30pm
Location: Von Braun Center Mark C. Smith Concert Hall
Cost: Prices vary. Click here for details
Tickets: Purchase your tickets online here or by calling the box office at 256-539-4818.

Guest blogger for We Are Huntsville. Are you interested in writing a post for our site? Email katelyn@wearehuntsville.com.