Hays Symphony Orchestra
The Hays Symphony Orchestra will conclude its 2024-2025 season with "Romantic Visions" at 7:30 p.m. May 3, at the Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center, 600 Park St.
Admission is free, but tickets can be reserved in advance at HaysSymphony.org.
The concert will feature pianist Irena Ravitskaya performing Edvard Grieg's Piano Concerto in A minor.
Ravitskaya, who regularly performs in international venues, is a member of the faculty at Fort Hays State University and frequently collaborates with orchestras across the country.
The concert program also includes Douglas Lilburn's Concert Overture in D and Robert Schumann's Symphony No. 1, known as the "Spring Symphony." Together, the selections represent key works from the Romantic period and offer a diverse listening experience for concertgoers.
"We are excited to present this final concert to the community," said Brian Buckstead, director of the Hays Symphony. "The selections highlight significant works from the Romantic era and showcase the talents of both our orchestra and soloist. I believe this program will appeal to a wide audience, whether you're a long-time classical music supporter or attending your first symphony concert."
Sandy Jacobs, president of the Hays Symphony Guild, emphasized the accessibility of the event. "Our mission is to ensure that classical music remains accessible to all members of our community," Jacobs said. "With the generous support of our sponsors, we're able to offer this concert free of charge and invite residents from across the region to experience the power of live orchestral music."
Dick and Kay Werth of Auto World are sponsoring the concert itself, continuing their tradition of supporting the arts in Hays. Insurance Planning is sponsoring the post-concert reception, which provides attendees the opportunity to meet the musicians and celebrate the season’s conclusion.
"The support we receive from our community and sponsors is invaluable," Buckstead said. "It helps us continue providing high-quality, accessible performances and enables us to invite talented guest artists like Irena Ravitskaya to join us."
Jacobs noted that while the concert is free, attendees are encouraged to reserve their tickets in advance. "We want to make sure everyone who wants to attend has a seat,” Jacobs said. “Free tickets are available online at HaysSymphony.org. It only takes a minute to reserve your spot, and we’re looking forward to a full house."
The May 3 performance marks the final event of the season for the Hays Symphony, which continues to present a series of orchestral concerts throughout the year in collaboration with Fort Hays State University.
"Every concert is an opportunity to connect people through music," Buckstead said. "We’re proud of what we’ve accomplished this season and look forward to building on that momentum in the year ahead."
For tickets, program details, and more information about the Hays Symphony, visit HaysSymphony.org.