Alexandria Symphony Orchestra
Alexandria Symphony Orchestra
Alexandria Symphony Orchestra
While the Alexandria Symphony Orchestra season just ended last month, the schedule for the new 2025-2026 season has been announced and tickets are on sale now for the new season that begins in September.
It will be Music Director James Ross' final season with the symphony, after announcing his decision to step down after this season.
He swiftly reshaped the organization’s artistic profile and was instrumental in navigating the Symphony through the pandemic. Audiences and subscribers have not only returned but grown significantly.
“The passing of time is something that music embodies in a very palpable and singular way. Every moment in the middle of a piece connects organically back to its beginning and sends simultaneous arrows flying towards its potential futures,” says Ross.
“My time at the Alexandria Symphony is now at such a moment. My upcoming eighth season as Music Director will be my last in that capacity before morphing elegantly into the role of Music Director Laureate. I am beyond grateful to all those who have supported me and our orchestra along this musical journey….who have kept us safe and thriving and heard. As we unveil our plans for this celebratory next season, I look back with pride at what our orchestra has become, what it has achieved in these tumultuous times. My love for the city and community of Alexandria remains steadfast – a place I have come to know as home. As newly minted Music Director Laureate, I will look forward to continuing to reflect on life at each very moment through the clarifying lens of phrases and sounds made by our beloved ASO.”
Ross is director of Orchestral Studies at the Curtis Institute of Music and will join the conducting faculty at the Tanglewood Music Center beginning this summer. A native of Boston, he has led the National Youth Orchestra USA as Orchestra Director since its founding in 2013. He served as Professor and Director of Orchestral Activities at the University of Maryland for 16 years and was also Music Director of the Orquesta Simfònica del Vallès in Barcelona, Spain. Jim’s principal conducting teachers were Kurt Masur, Otto-Werner Mueller, Seiji Ozawa, and Leonard Bernstein.
2025-2026 season
The season kicks off with a spectacular pairing of American vibrancy and Russian soul, followed by a classical and romantic dialogue, and culminating in a beloved holiday tradition with a delightful twist.
The curtain rises Saturday, Sept. 27 at 7:30 p.m. at the Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center, and continues on Sunday, Sept. 28 at 3 p.m. at the majestic George Washington Masonic Memorial. This inaugural program, "Gershwin & Tchaikovsky," will feature the exceptional artistry of pianist Michelle Cann.
The evening begins with the intriguing sounds of Alex Berko's "Unstrung," a contemporary piece that promises to explore unique sonic landscapes. Next, audiences will be treated to the infectious rhythms of Jorge Amado's "En Conga pa’ La Habana."
The heart of the program then turns to the dazzling virtuosity of George Gershwin's Piano Concerto in F. Pianist Michelle Cann, celebrated for her captivating performances and insightful interpretations, will bring her acclaimed talent to this iconic American masterpiece, brimming with jazz-infused melodies and exhilarating energy.
The concert concludes with the profound emotional depth of Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky's Symphony No. 5. The orchestra will navigate the symphony's dramatic journey, from its somber opening to its triumphant and soaring finale, showcasing the composer's masterful orchestration and lyrical genius.
The musical adventure continues later in the season with "Mozart & Mendelssohn" on Saturday, Nov. 8 at 7:30 p.m. at the Schlesinger Concert Hall and Sunday, Nov. 9 at 3 p.m. at the Masonic Memorial. This program features the exceptional clarinet artistry of Michael Rusinek.
This concert offers a delightful contrast, opening with the innovative sounds of György Ligeti's "Concert Romanesc," a work inspired by Romanian folk music. The program then transitions to the elegant beauty of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's Clarinet Concerto, a cornerstone of the repertoire, promising a showcase of Rusinek's lyrical tone and technical brilliance.
A touch of American charm follows with Scott Joplin's Overture to "Treemonisha," a spirited glimpse into his groundbreaking opera. The evening culminates in the sun-drenched melodies and infectious energy of Felix Mendelssohn's Symphony No. 4, the "Italian" Symphony, evoking the vibrant landscapes and joyful spirit of Italy.
As the holiday season approaches, audiences can look forward to the return of a beloved tradition with "Holiday with a Twist" on Saturday, Dec. 20 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 21 at 3 p.m. at the usual venues. While the conductor for this performance is to be announced, the magic will undoubtedly be present as dancers from Ballet Nova grace the stage, performing highlights from the enchanting "The Nutcracker." In addition to these cherished ballet moments, the program will also feature a selection of beloved carols, timeless classics, and other sparkling seasonal favorites, promising a festive and heartwarming experience for the whole family.
2026
Prepare for two distinct and captivating orchestral programs in early 2026, featuring a delightful blend of beloved classics and exciting contemporary voices.
The first program, Beethoven & Bohème, will grace the stage on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. at the Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center, followed by a matinee performance on Sunday, Feb. 15, 2026, at 3 p.m. at the majestic George Washington Masonic Memorial.
This concert offers a compelling juxtaposition of energy and emotion. The evening will commence with Unsuk Chin's dynamic and vibrant Subito con Forza, a contemporary work known for its rhythmic drive and orchestral color. Following this invigorating opener, the orchestra will delve into the classical brilliance of Beethoven's Symphony No. 8. Often characterized by its wit and concise structure, this symphony is a testament to Beethoven's innovative spirit. The program will culminate in a selection of passionate Scenes from Puccini's La Bohème, brought to life by the talented singers from the renowned Cafritz Opera Program. Immerse yourself in the poignant melodies and dramatic storytelling of this iconic opera.
Later in the spring, the musical journey continues with Bruch & Sibelius, scheduled for Saturday, April 25, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. at the Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center, and again on Sunday, April 26, 2026, at 3 p.m.at the George Washington Masonic Memorial.
This program offers a powerful exploration of Romantic and Nordic soundscapes. The concert will begin with Missy Mazzoli's Sinfonia (for Orbiting Spheres), a contemporary piece that evokes a sense of cosmic wonder and movement. The celebrated violinist Alexander Kerr will then take center stage to perform Bruch's Violin Concerto No. 1, one of the most beloved and emotionally resonant works in the violin repertoire. The program will conclude with the sweeping grandeur of Sibelius's Symphony No. 2, a work celebrated for its lyrical beauty and powerful sense of national identity.
These two concert experiences offer a fantastic opportunity to witness exceptional musical talent and explore a diverse range of orchestral masterpieces. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or new to the world of orchestral performance, these evenings promise to be both enriching and unforgettable. Mark your calendars for February and April 2026 to experience the magic of live music.
Founded during the Second World War, the Alexandria Symphony provides music education and performance to the western Potomac community. It currently presents five concert pairs each season. Saturday evenings are performed at Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center, and Sunday matinees at George Washington Masonic National Memorial.
Subscriptions may be purchased at 703-548-0885. Information on the Alexandria Symphony will be found at AlexSym.org.
