Conway Symphony Orchestra kicks off 38th year

The Conway Symphony Orchestra (CSO) announced the 38th season at “Encore,” a private event hosted at the home of Jenny and Houston Davis, president of the University of Central Arkansas. Live music, heavy hors d’ oeuvres and a champagne toast were shared by CSO board members, staff, sponsors and supporters.

President Houston Davis, CSO Board President Judy Harkrider and Music Director Israel “Izzy” Getzov

The 2022-23 season includes five exciting performances, including a free concert for the public at Laurel Park at 7:15 p.m., Friday, Sept. 23. Guests are encouraged to bring the whole family, along with chairs or a blanket and a picnic.

Then, formal performances will follow: Power, Mystery & Fate: An Electric Violin, A Magical Night, and Beethoven’s Fifth on Oct. 30, featuring Alexander Markov on violin; Holiday Spectacular on Dec. 4, featuring the Arkansas Festival Ballet and Conway Men’s Chorus; Sacred Spaces and Glorious Places: The opening concert at the new Windgate Center for Fine and Performing Arts featuring Ana Maria Vera on piano; and, Luminous! on April 22, featuring Kristin Lewis, soprano.

“This season is truly a landmark in the history of the CSO,” Music Director Israel “Izzy” Getzov said. “This March we christen a new performance space for our orchestra and audience at the UCA Windgate Center. Join us for this once-in-a-generation season!”

Albert Garcia Delgadillo, Qinqing Yang, JoAna Rusche, Stephen Feldman and Anna Bass

The CSO Guild is a group of volunteers who raise funds to support the symphony. The Guild will host “Jazz It Up!” at 6:30 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 8, on stage at Reynolds Performance Hall, 223 Beatrice Powell Dr. Tickets are $75 per person. Guests will enjoy hors d’oeuvres, libations and live jazz, as well as a silent and live auction. They can be purchased by calling 501.513.7096.

“We invite your readers to share in the excitement of this special year,” Getzov said.