News Release: October Piano Fireworks and Choral Splendor

NEWS RELEASE
Wichita Symphony Orchestra
September 26, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The Symphony's October Concludes with Piano Fireworks and Choral Splendor

Wichita, KS — The Wichita Symphony Orchestra concludes October with a series of unforgettable performances featuring some of the most celebrated works in the classical repertoire, including Beethoven’s monumental “Emperor” Piano Concerto No. 5, Tchaikovsky’s sweeping Symphony No. 5, and Mozart’s Coronation Mass.

October 25th begins with Carlos Simon’s Fate Now Conquers, a contemporary work that channels Beethoven’s spirit with modern urgency and rhythmic vitality. Michelle Cann then takes the stage for Beethoven’s iconic piano concerto, a piece renowned for its virtuosic demands and triumphant spirit. Cann, a GRAMMY Award–winning pianist hailed by The Philadelphia Inquirer as “exquisite” and by Gramophone as “a pianist of sterling artistry,” has appeared with many of the world’s leading orchestras, including the Chicago Symphony, The Cleveland Orchestra, and the Los Angeles Philharmonic. The program concludes with Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 5, a work that journeys through sorrow, struggle, and ultimate triumph, offering a compelling portrait of human emotion.

Michelle Cann returns to the Concert Hall stage on Sunday for an intimate solo piano recital, part of the inaugural WSO Connect series. This unique concert places the audience on the Concert Hall stage, facing the traditional auditorium seating, providing an up-close encounter with Cann’s artistry. The program highlights music from Chicago’s Black Renaissance, weaving together storytelling and performance in a deeply personal and expressive experience.

The jam-packed October concludes on Tuesday, October 28, with Mozart’s Coronation Mass. Performed by the Wichita Symphony Chorus under the direction of Dr. Ryan Beeken, this luminous work demonstrates Mozart’s mastery of choral writing, blending joyful fanfares and lyrical melodies. The performance is interwoven with poetry readings and contemporary choral works performed by Wichita State University Concert Chorale, Butler Community College Chamber Singers, and Wichita Community Children’s Choir alongside the Wichita Symphony Chorus.

Whether you're captivated by the sweeping drama of Beethoven and Tchaikovsky, drawn to an introspective musical encounter with Michelle Cann, or moved by the radiant voices of Mozart’s choral masterpiece, these October events promise unforgettable artistry and emotion.

Tickets for all performances and events are available now with no fees only at WichitaSymphony.org or by calling (316) 267-7658.

October at a Glance:

Saturday, October 25 at 7:30 PM
Beethoven's Emperor
Featuring Michelle Cann and the Wichita Symphony Orchestra
Century II Concert Hall
     Adult Tickets, $29-$85
     Student Tickets, $10

Sunday, October 26 at 3:00 PM
Michelle Cann Solo Piano Recital
Featuring Michelle Cann
Century II Concert Hall Stage
     General Admission, $50
     VIP Adults, $75
     Student, $20

Tuesday, October 28 at 7:30 PM
Mozart's Coronation
Featuring the Wichita Symphony Chorus, Wichita State University Concert Chorale, Butler Community College Chamber Singers, and Wichita Community Children's Choir
First United Methodist Church
     (prior to October 28) Early Bird Adult, $30
     (on October 28) Adult, $35
     Student, $10

FOR MEDIA INQUIRIES:
Contact: Nina Longhofer, Director of Marketing
Phone: (316) 267-5259, ext. 104
Email: nlonghofer@wso.org

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