The Marquette Symphony Orchestra will close out its 2024–25 season with "Festive Folk," a concert celebrating the vibrant intersection of classical music and folk traditions. MSO Music Director and Principal Conductor Octavio Más-Arocas visited our studios to preview the April 12 program.
“This is going to be a very beautiful night of music,” Más-Arocas said. “We’re featuring classical works inspired by folk music, full of pomp, energy, and deep emotional resonance.”
The concert opens with Shostakovich’s "Festive Overture," followed by a collaborative set with local Celtic trio The Knockabouts—featuring MSO violinist Dr. Barbara Rhyneer. The evening concludes with Tchaikovsky’s "Symphony No. 2," which draws on Ukrainian folk melodies.
“We’re not celebrating any political message—just the music and the composers,” Más-Arocas emphasized. “Tchaikovsky and Shostakovich were shaped by different pressures and traditions, but their music transcends time and place.”
The inclusion of The Knockabouts continues a tradition of collaboration. “We’ve been dreaming up this partnership for years,” Más-Arocas said. “Barbara took time during her sabbatical to arrange these pieces, and they’re truly wonderful.”
Check out The Knockabouts in concert at Peter White Public Library:
Reflecting on the season as a whole, Más-Arocas pointed to the orchestra’s ongoing mission: variety and connection. “Every concert is different, but every concert connects. Our audience is our highlight.”
Listen to Kurt Hauswirth's conversation with Octavio:
As for what’s next, Más-Arocas teased a western-themed outdoor summer concert and encouraged patrons to attend "Festive Folk" to hear the official 2025–26 season announcement.
"Festive Folk" takes place Saturday, April 12th, 2025, at 7:30pm, at Kaufman Auditorium in Marquette. Tickets and more information are available through the Marquette Symphony Orchestra website or NMU Ticketing.
