Central Oregon Symphony

Symphony wraps season with trumpets and Tchaikovsky

The Central Oregon Symphony (COS) concludes its 51st season with a three-concert series, May 19-21, at the Bend High School auditorium: Saturday (7:30 p.m.), Sunday (2 p.m.) and Monday (7:30 p.m.). COS is a cooperative effort between Central Oregon Community College (COCC) and the nonprofit Central Oregon Symphony Association. Admission to the performances is free, but tickets are required; visit cosymphony.com. The programming pairs two dynamic “personalities”: world-renowned trumpeter Allen Vizzutti and Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 5.

Vizzutti, one of the preeminent trumpet players of his generation, has roots in both jazz and classical music. His career includes guest performances with orchestras around the world, solo performances in places like Carnegie Hall, and music in more than 100 motion picture soundtracks.

The Seattle-based musician is committed to music education, publishing trumpet method books and other materials to support the growth and development of trumpet players. He has also composed and arranged numerous orchestral works: “Snow Scenes” is part of this series.

“I’m thrilled for the opportunity to work with Vizzutti,” said Michael Gesme, conductor of the symphony and a COCC professor of music, “and to share the artistry of this amazing performer with Central Oregon audiences.”

According to Gesme, the outsized personality of Symphony No. 5 looms large in the concert hall. “The drama played out over the course of four movements and three quarters of an hour is the epitome of romanticism—highs, lows, pushes, pulls—and it is immensely satisfying to hear the transformation unfold from uncertainty at the outset to the triumphant, life-affirming strains at the conclusion,” shared the conductor.

Information: Michael Gesme, Central Oregon Symphony conductor, 541-383-7516.