WSO 50th Anniversary Celebration!

The Wallingford Symphony Orchestra's upcoming concert will feature an extraordinary lineup of music and performances, celebrating the power and diversity of orchestral and vocal works.

Kariné Poghosyan, a renowned pianist, will dazzle the audience with her brilliant performance of Rhapsody in Blue by George Gershwin, one of the most iconic American compositions. Kariné’s virtuosity will also shine through in 100th Anniversary 2024, a special piece showcasing her immense talent.

Joining her on stage is Hayes Greenfield, CRH'75, playing the tenor saxophone in a medley of jazz standards that pays tribute to the legendary work of Duke Ellington. His performance, featuring pieces such as Don’t Get Around Much Anymore, It Don’t Mean A Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Swing), and Sophisticated Lady, will transport the audience into the heart of the Big Band era.

Susan Yankee, the esteemed WSO vocalist, will grace the stage with her beautiful voice, accompanied by Miguel Angel Vasquez, Wallingford’s rising star, whose powerful baritone voice will bring the Broadway hits of Elton John to life, including songs like Can You Feel the Love Tonight, Hakuna Matata, and I Just Can’t Wait to Be King from The Lion King, as well as songs from Wicked, such as Defying Gravity and Popular.

The concert will also feature a performance by Ian Li, the 2025 First Prize Winner of the Mitchel Family Fund String Competition, performing Violin Concerto in D Minor, Op. 47 by Jean Sibelius. Ian’s stunning interpretation of the first movement, Allegro Moderato, will captivate the audience and highlight his remarkable talent.

The concert’s opening will be marked by the stirring Fanfare for the Common Man by Aaron Copland, followed by Golden Jubilee March by John Philip Sousa and Jubel (Jubilation) Overture by Carl Maria von Weber, all setting the stage for a vibrant and uplifting evening.

As a grand finale, A Salute to the Big Bands, arranged by Calvin Custer, will bring a whirlwind of jazz favorites, including Sing, Sing, Sing and Pennsylvania 6-5000, with Hayes Greenfield once again captivating the audience with his tenor saxophone performance.

This evening promises a rich and diverse musical journey, from classical masterpieces to Broadway hits and the timeless swing of the Big Bands. Don’t miss this extraordinary celebration of music, talent, and artistry!