🎻 Welcome to the Scottsdale Philharmonic’s “Full House” performance of
🎶 Beethoven’s Lyrical Odyssey – “Incredible Passion & Elegance”
Performed live on Sunday, May 11, 2025, at 4:00 PM at La Casa de Cristo Lutheran Church in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Sponsored by Tom & Joyce Fisher

On this special Mother’s Day, we celebrated together with an afternoon of stirring melodies, heartfelt tributes, and masterful artistry. The program featured dynamic selections from Stravinsky and Rodgers & Hammerstein, and concluded with one of Beethoven’s most beloved piano concertos—an unforgettable musical journey for both in-person and online audiences.

💐 Happy Mother’s Day to all who nurture and inspire—thank you for spending this beautiful afternoon with us.

🎼 PROGRAM NOTES

The Firebird Suite – Igor Stravinsky (1882–1971)
A tour de force of orchestral color and imagination, Stravinsky’s Firebird Suite draws from Russian folklore to depict a magical realm of firebirds, enchanted princesses, and dark sorcery. This suite’s three movements—The Firebird’s Dance, The Princesses and Infernal Dance, and Berceuse and Finale—transport the listener through mystery, menace, and ultimately, radiant triumph.

You’ll Never Walk Alone – Rodgers / Hammerstein (from Carousel)
Sung by soprano Melissa Solomon, this timeless anthem of perseverance and hope has long resonated as a message of comfort and strength. Its heartfelt delivery served as a fitting tribute on Mother’s Day, reminding us all of the enduring bonds that carry us through.

INTERMISSION (15 Minutes)

Piano Concerto No. 4 in G Major – Ludwig van Beethoven (1770–1827)
Performed by Vitaly Serebriakov, this lyrical and inventive concerto showcases Beethoven’s unique voice and emotional depth.

• Allegro moderato – graceful and conversational, defying typical concerto structure

• Andante con moto – haunting and contemplative, evoking inner struggle

• Rondo: Vivace – joyful, sparkling, and rhythmically playful

Beethoven’s Fourth Piano Concerto stands as a bold, introspective masterpiece—and a radiant close to this moving program.

🎤 Featured Performers

Melissa Solomon, Soprano
A beloved Scottsdale Philharmonic regular since 2018, Melissa Solomon has been praised by Opera Canada as “delightful” and “vivacious.” She has performed with major opera houses across North America, and is also a longtime member of the Arizona Opera Chorus.

Vitaly Serebriakov, Piano Soloist
Critically acclaimed for his expressiveness and technical brilliance, Vitaly Serebriakov brings a refined and thoughtful artistry to every performance. He continues to inspire audiences as a soloist, teacher, and recording artist.

Maestro Vanja Gjumar Nikolovski
Educated at the Rimsky-Korsakov Conservatory in St. Petersburg and holding a Doctor of Arts from Arizona State University, Vanja Nikolovski is known for his powerful conducting style and innovative programming. He has led orchestras across Europe and North America and serves as music director of the Chandler Symphony Orchestra.

💥 JOIN US FOR FUTURE PERFORMANCES
Enjoy live symphonic music across the Valley!

🎟️ View upcoming concerts and purchase tickets:
👉 scottsdalephilharmonic.com/nextperformances

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📲 Watch More Online
All concerts are livestreamed and free to view anytime:

🌐 Website: www.scottsdalephilharmonic.com
📘 Facebook: facebook.com/ScottsdalePhilharmonic
📺 YouTube: youtube.com/@ScottsdalePhilharmonic

Thank you for supporting live symphonic music and helping us bring world-class performances to the entire community!

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