The Marquette Symphony Orchestra kicks off its 2025–26 season on Saturday, October 4 at 7:30 p.m. at Kaufman Auditorium with a program featuring Gershwin’s "Rhapsody in Blue" and lighter orchestral works by Shostakovich. Music Director Octavio Más-Arocas and guest pianist Jeffrey Biegel recently previewed the concert on Public Radio 90.
Mas-Arocas noted that while Shostakovich is often associated with weighty symphonies, the program highlights his more playful side through the "Suite for Variety Orchestra No. 1" and "Tahiti Trot," an arrangement of “Tea for Two.” These short works reveal his flair for dance rhythms and unexpected instrumentation, including saxophone and banjo.
The concert also features a side-by-side performance with students from Marquette and Negaunee High School orchestras. Mas-Arocas emphasized the value of bringing young musicians into a professional setting and the energy they bring to the stage.
Jeffrey Biegel will perform "Rhapsody in Blue," drawing from critical editions that reflect Gershwin’s original intent. Biegel emphasized the piece’s blend of classical forms with ragtime, blues, klezmer, and dance influences, and his commitment to clarity and authenticity in performance.
Kurt Hauswirth spoke with Biegel and Mas-Arocas about the upcoming concert and recital:
On Sunday, October 5, at 2 p.m., Biegel will present a recital in Reynolds Recital Hall featuring music by Chopin and Grieg, with brief commentary and audience engagement.
Both artists expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration and the opportunity to connect with the Marquette community through performance and education.
Find out more at marquettesymphony.org.
